Lemon-Dill Chicken with Zucchini Noodles Recipe
If you’re searching for a dinner that’s as bright and fresh as a spring garden but only takes 25 minutes from start to finish, let me introduce you to my ultimate weeknight winner: Lemon-Dill Chicken with Zucchini Noodles. This dish is a flavor-packed, low-carb revelation that brings together tender, juicy chicken, crisp-tender “zoodles,” and an irresistible hit of citrus and herbs. Every bite feels like a big burst of sunshine—refreshing, comforting, and unbelievably easy to pull together. Whether you’re craving something healthy or you just love bold, zippy flavors, Lemon-Dill Chicken with Zucchini Noodles is about to become your new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Lemon-Dill Chicken with Zucchini Noodles lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each element is chosen to deliver maximum flavor and a beautiful balance of textures and colors that make this dish special and satisfying.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken is the perfect lean canvas for all the vibrant flavors in this dish; slice against the grain for ultimate tenderness.
- Olive Oil: Just a tablespoon helps you get that golden sear while infusing the meat with fruity, aromatic notes.
- Salt and Black Pepper: These simple staples are essential for seasoning every layer and enhancing the natural flavors.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle, savory punch to the chicken, making the other flavors sing without overpowering.
- Fresh Dill: The star herb; it brings a unique burst of freshness you absolutely don’t want to skip (dried dill works in a pinch!).
- Lemon Zest: Tiny flecks add an aromatic brightness that pairs perfectly with the dill and chicken.
- Lemon Juice: Just-squeezed lemon cuts through the richness for a lighter, tangier finish.
- Zucchini: Spiralized into beautiful noodles—zoodles!—they form a crisp, juicy, and low-calorie bed for your chicken.
- Garlic Clove: Freshly minced for a mellow, savory edge that flavors the whole dish.
- Butter: Just a tablespoon boosts richness, but you can easily use more olive oil for a dairy-free version.
- Grated Parmesan (Optional): An irresistibly salty, nutty flourish for serving, if you like.
How to Make Lemon-Dill Chicken with Zucchini Noodles
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle the chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, lemon zest, and chopped fresh dill. Gently press the seasonings into both sides—this not only locks in moisture but ensures every bite is infused with those signature lemon-dill flavors.
Step 2: Sear to Golden Perfection
Set a large skillet over medium heat and swirl in your olive oil. Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot pan and let them sizzle, undisturbed, for 5 to 6 minutes per side. You’re looking for a glorious golden-brown crust and juicy centers. Once cooked through, remove chicken to a plate and let it rest.
Step 3: Sauté the Zucchini Noodles
In the same skillet, melt the butter (or add more olive oil for a lighter touch), then toss in the minced garlic. After just 30 seconds—when the kitchen smells irresistible—add the spiralized zucchini. Toss everything together and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the zoodles are slightly softened but not mushy.
Step 4: Add Lemon Juice and Season
Drizzle in the fresh lemon juice over the zucchini noodles, giving everything a quick toss to combine. Taste and adjust your seasoning, adding a pinch more salt, pepper, or a spritz of lemon if needed. The flavors should be lively and bright!
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips. Pile the warm zucchini noodles onto plates, lay the sliced chicken over the top, and if you’re a fan, finish with extra fresh dill and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Lemon-Dill Chicken with Zucchini Noodles is ready to devour!
How to Serve Lemon-Dill Chicken with Zucchini Noodles
Garnishes
A handful of fresh dill and a grating of Parmesan are guaranteed to take Lemon-Dill Chicken with Zucchini Noodles from home-cooked to restaurant-worthy. If you want more zing, a few extra curls of lemon zest and some cracked black pepper over the top don’t hurt, either!
Side Dishes
Because this dish is so vibrant and satisfying on its own, you really don’t need much else. That said, a side of fluffy cauliflower rice, a crisp garden salad, or even some roasted cherry tomatoes would complement the flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun spin, serve Lemon-Dill Chicken with Zucchini Noodles in wide, shallow bowls—perfect for twirling those zoodles. You could also roll slices of chicken with zoodles inside and secure with toothpicks for a party-worthy appetizer. For a bit of crunch, scatter toasted pine nuts or roasted chickpeas on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftovers quickly and seal them in an airtight container in the fridge. Both the chicken and zucchini noodles will keep well for up to 3 days, making Lemon-Dill Chicken with Zucchini Noodles a delicious option for meal-prep lunches.
Freezing
While you can freeze the cooked chicken, zucchini noodles tend to lose their texture after thawing. If you want to freeze, store the sliced chicken separately and plan to spiralize fresh zucchini right before serving.
Reheating
Gently reheat chicken and zucchini noodles together in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra lemon juice to keep everything moist. Microwaving is quick but can make zoodles watery, so stovetop is best for freshness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful—just keep in mind they may need an extra minute or two of cooking. The result will be just as tasty in your Lemon-Dill Chicken with Zucchini Noodles.
How do I spiralize zucchini without special equipment?
If you don’t have a spiralizer, use a julienne peeler or even a regular vegetable peeler to create wide zucchini ribbons. The texture will still work beautifully for this recipe.
Can I prep Lemon-Dill Chicken with Zucchini Noodles ahead of time?
It’s easy to prep everything in advance—season and cook the chicken, spiralize the zucchini, and make your garlic butter. Wait to sauté the zucchini noodles until right before serving for best texture.
Is this recipe gluten free?
Yes! Lemon-Dill Chicken with Zucchini Noodles is naturally gluten free, making it perfect for those with allergies or anyone embracing a gluten-free lifestyle.
What protein alternatives work best?
Try grilled shrimp, salmon, or even tofu if you want a vegetarian twist. The lemon-dill flavor really shines with any mild protein, so feel free to swap as you please.
Final Thoughts
If you love easy, bright, and nourishing meals, you absolutely have to try Lemon-Dill Chicken with Zucchini Noodles. Give it a spin the next time you crave a wholesome dinner that’s as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat—you might just find yourself making it on repeat!
