One-Pan Lemon-Dill Chicken

There’s nothing quite like the simplicity and elegance of a one-pan meal, and this lemon-dill chicken is a shining example. Tender, juicy chicken thighs and drumsticks roast alongside potatoes, all infused with the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemon and fragrant dill. The aroma that fills your kitchen is fresh, inviting, and utterly irresistible. This one-pan recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual dinner party, and trust me, every bite bursts with flavor.

Behind the Recipe

I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. The combination of lemon, dill, and roasted chicken made the whole kitchen smell like a cozy Sunday brunch, even on a busy weekday. It’s one of those meals that brings people together because it’s comforting, simple, and full of fresh, vibrant flavors. Plus, cleaning up is a breeze since it’s all cooked in one pan.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

One-pan roasted chicken recipes have been popular across Europe and North America for decades. The use of dill is common in Scandinavian cooking, often paired with fish or chicken for a fresh, herbaceous flavor. The addition of lemon adds a bright citrus note that cuts through the richness of the meat, creating a dish that feels both light and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love One-Pan Lemon-Dill Chicken

Here’s why this dish will become a staple in your kitchen:

Versatile: Perfect for family dinners, casual meals, or even meal prep.

Budget-Friendly: Uses accessible ingredients and minimal kitchen tools.

Quick and Easy: Prep takes just a few minutes, and it bakes itself.

Customizable: Add vegetables like carrots or green beans for extra flavor.

Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by kids and adults alike for its tender, flavorful chicken.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinade ahead of time for even deeper flavor.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

A few key tips ensure your chicken comes out golden and juicy every time:

• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help the skin crisp up.
• Slice the lemons thinly to release maximum juice and flavor.
• Use fresh dill for the best aroma and taste; dried can be used in a pinch.
• Turn the chicken once halfway through roasting to brown evenly.
• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to lock in juices.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Keep things simple with these basic tools:

Baking sheet or roasting pan: Large enough to hold chicken and potatoes in a single layer.

Mixing bowl: For tossing chicken and potatoes with lemon, dill, and oil.

Sharp knife: For slicing lemons and trimming chicken.

Tongs or spatula: To turn chicken halfway through roasting.

Meat thermometer: Optional but ensures perfectly cooked chicken.

Ingredients in One-Pan Lemon-Dill Chicken

Each ingredient works in harmony to create a zesty, aromatic, and hearty meal.

1. Chicken thighs and drumsticks: 4 thighs and 4 drumsticks, bone-in and skin-on for flavor and juiciness.
2. Baby potatoes: 1 pound, halved. Roast beautifully and soak up flavors.
3. Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons fresh. Adds bright, zesty flavor.
4. Lemon slices: 1 lemon, thinly sliced for garnish and extra aroma.
5. Fresh dill: 2 tablespoons chopped. Brings a fragrant, herbaceous note.
6. Olive oil: 2 tablespoons. Helps crisp the chicken and coat the potatoes.
7. Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Adds depth and warmth.
8. Salt: 1 teaspoon. Enhances all the flavors.
9. Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground. Adds subtle spice and balance.

Ingredient Substitutions

Flexible options if needed:

Chicken: Use breasts if preferred, but adjust cooking time.
Potatoes: Sweet potatoes or fingerlings work as well.
Fresh dill: Substitute 1 tablespoon dried dill.
Olive oil: Any neutral oil like avocado or canola can be used.
Garlic: Garlic powder in a pinch, about 1 teaspoon.

Ingredient Spotlight

Fresh Dill: This herb is the star of the dish, giving the chicken a bright, herby aroma that pairs perfectly with citrus.

Lemon Juice and Slices: Lemon lifts the flavor of the chicken and balances the richness, making each bite vibrant and refreshing.

Instructions for Making One-Pan Lemon-Dill Chicken

This recipe is straightforward, but a few steps ensure perfect flavor and texture.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet or roasting pan with parchment paper or lightly grease.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and dill.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Place chicken and halved potatoes in the prepared pan. Pour lemon-dill mixture over chicken and potatoes. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Arrange chicken skin-side up and place lemon slices over the top. Make sure potatoes are in a single layer.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Roast in the oven for 35–45 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden. Turn potatoes halfway through roasting for even browning.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Remove from oven and let chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with extra dill if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve directly from the pan or transfer to a platter, spooning pan juices over the chicken and potatoes for extra flavor.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The skin becomes golden and crisp, while the chicken stays juicy. Potatoes are soft and infused with lemon and dill. The combination of garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs creates layers of flavor that are aromatic and satisfying. Lemon adds brightness that balances the richness of roasted chicken perfectly.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Pat chicken dry for crispier skin.
• Slice lemons thin to avoid overpowering bitterness.
• Rotate pan halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

What to Avoid

• Crowding the pan: Overlapping prevents crisping.
• Using too much lemon juice: Can overpower the dish.
• Skipping rest time: Juices will run out and chicken may dry.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 400

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is easy to prepare in advance. Marinate the chicken in the lemon-dill mixture for a few hours or overnight. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

How to Serve One-Pan Lemon-Dill Chicken

Serve with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Spoon the pan juices over the chicken for extra flavor and moisture.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Slice chicken and toss into a salad with lemon vinaigrette.
• Chop leftover chicken into pasta or grain bowls.
• Mix with cooked rice and extra dill for a one-pan inspired fried rice.

Additional Tips

• Add extra vegetables like asparagus or carrots to the pan for a complete meal.
• Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried is less vibrant.
• Drizzle a little olive oil over potatoes for extra crispness.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve directly from a rustic pan, garnished with fresh dill sprigs and lemon slices. Use colorful vegetables to add contrast and make the dish visually appealing.

Variations to Try

• Garlic Herb Chicken: Add rosemary and thyme with the dill.
• Spicy Lemon Chicken: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over chicken before roasting.
• Mediterranean Style: Add olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta before serving.
• Honey Lemon Chicken: Drizzle honey over the chicken during the last 10 minutes of roasting.
• Sheet Pan Veggie Upgrade: Add bell peppers, zucchini, and onion to the pan for extra flavor and color.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and drumsticks?

A1: Yes, adjust cooking time to avoid drying out breasts.

Q2: Can this be made ahead?

A2: Yes, marinate chicken in advance and roast when ready.

Q3: Is fresh dill necessary?

A3: Fresh dill provides the best flavor, but dried can be used in a pinch.

Q4: Can I use frozen chicken?

A4: Thaw fully before roasting to ensure even cooking.

Q5: What side dishes go best?

A5: Green salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf complement this dish beautifully.

Q6: Can I bake everything in a casserole dish?

A6: Yes, just ensure the chicken is skin-side up for crispiness.

Q7: How long will leftovers last?

A7: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q8: Can I add more lemon slices?

A8: Yes, just avoid covering the skin completely to allow browning.

Q9: Can I double the recipe?

A9: Yes, use a larger pan and ensure items are in a single layer.

Q10: Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh?

A10: Yes, use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.

Conclusion

This one-pan lemon-dill chicken is fresh, flavorful, and effortlessly satisfying. Juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and the bright flavors of lemon and dill come together for a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, it’s a dish that will keep everyone asking for seconds.

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