Chef Mitchell preparing Crispy Dill Chicken Delight
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this recipe while experimenting with different herb combinations. My love for dill led me to create this crispy chicken delight, which has become a family favorite. Perfecting the balance of flavors took some time, but now it's a hit at every gathering. I love seeing the smiles on my family’s faces when they dig into this dish."

Chef Mitchell has over a decade of experience specializing in American cuisine. With a passion for creating simple yet flavorful dinner recipes, he has crafted over 1000 dishes. His expertise shines through every meal he prepares, making him a trusted source for delicious American recipes.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Crispy Dill Chicken Delight served on a plate

Why This Crispy Dill Chicken Delight Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its unique combination of spices and fresh dill, which create a flavorful and aromatic coating for the chicken. The use of buttermilk ensures the chicken remains moist and tender throughout the cooking process. By baking instead of frying, you achieve a healthier dish without compromising on crunchiness.

The technique of dredging in flour and breadcrumbs not only adds texture but also locks in the chicken's natural juices. Each bite of this dish delivers a satisfying crunch followed by tender chicken, making it a delightful experience for your taste buds.

💡 Professional Tip

For the crispiest results, make sure to let the chicken rest after coating. This allows the coating to adhere better during baking. Additionally, using fresh herbs enhances the flavor significantly, so opt for fresh dill whenever possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it with the buttermilk and breadcrumbs ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking to allow the flavors to meld. However, it’s best to bake it fresh for maximum crispiness.

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by combining milk with vinegar or lemon juice. Simply add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The coating should be golden brown and crispy. You can use a meat thermometer or cut into a piece to check that the juices run clear.

Yes, after cooking, you can freeze the leftover Crispy Dill Chicken Delight. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven to restore its crispiness.

Crispy Dill Chicken Delight pairs well with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with a light dipping sauce or lemon wedges for added flavor.

In the refrigerator, Crispy Dill Chicken Delight will last for about 3-4 days if stored properly in an airtight container. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain its texture.

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it the night before and keep it in the fridge. Just ensure you let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

The best way to reheat Crispy Dill Chicken Delight is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken may turn out dry if overcooked or if the coating doesn't hold moisture.

Solution: To prevent dryness, ensure you do not overbake the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and remove it from the oven as soon as it reaches 165°F (75°C).

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the coating is not crispy, it could be due to moisture in the chicken or not enough oil.

Solution: Make sure to pat the chicken dry before coating and use enough oil to help achieve that golden, crispy texture. Baking at a higher temperature can also help.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the chicken is overcooked, it becomes tough and dry.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, monitor the cooking time closely and use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature regularly.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The center of the chicken may remain undercooked if not cooked long enough.

Recovery: If you suspect an undercooked center, return the chicken to the oven for additional cooking time, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The exterior may burn if the oven temperature is too high or if the chicken is too close to the heating element.

Prevention: To prevent burning, keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks and adjust the oven rack to ensure the chicken is in the center of the oven.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, balance it with a bit of acidity like lemon juice or vinegar.

Too Salty: For a salty taste, add a bit of sugar or a small amount of vinegar to balance the flavors.

Bland: If the dish is bland, enhance the flavors with additional spices or fresh herbs.

Fresh ingredients for Crispy Dill Chicken Delight

Essential Ingredients for Crispy Dill Chicken Delight

The key ingredients for this recipe include fresh chicken, which provides a tender base, and aromatic dill that lends a unique flavor. The combination of spices in the flour coating adds depth, while the buttermilk ensures the chicken stays moist throughout cooking.

Using high-quality chicken and fresh herbs will elevate this dish significantly. Opt for organic chicken whenever possible and use freshly chopped dill for the best flavor and aroma.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for maximum flavor and moisture. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work well but may require careful attention to avoid overcooking.
  • Dill: Fresh dill is essential for an authentic flavor. Dried dill can work in a pinch, but fresh herbs will always provide a more vibrant taste and aroma.
  • Breadcrumbs: Choose panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch in your coating. They create a light and crispy texture that enhances the overall dish.
Cooking process for Crispy Dill Chicken Delight

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking method involves a straightforward coating technique that results in a crispy exterior. By baking the chicken instead of frying, you can create a healthier version of this classic dish without sacrificing flavor.

Achieving perfect results requires attention to detail in the coating process. Ensure each piece is well-coated in the mixture for optimal crunch, and monitor the baking process closely to prevent overcooking.

Key Technique for Perfect Crispy Dill Chicken Delight

The key technique to mastering this Crispy Dill Chicken Delight is in the coating method. Properly layering the buttermilk and flour mixture, followed by breadcrumbs, creates a textural contrast that delivers crunch with each bite.

Crispy Dill Chicken Delight

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
    For flavor
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
    For garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    Adjust as needed

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    For coating
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp onion powder
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp paprika
    For color and taste
  • 1 tsp salt
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    To taste
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
    For moisture
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
    For crunch
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
    For flavor
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    For flavor
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
    For baking

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut chicken into pieces, and set aside.

  2. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

  3. Prepare Buttermilk Mixture

    In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, lemon zest, and chopped dill.

  4. Coat Chicken

    Dip chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture.

  5. Add Breadcrumbs

    After coating with flour, roll the chicken in breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.

  6. Arrange on Baking Sheet

    Place coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet drizzled with olive oil.

  7. Bake the Chicken

    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

  8. Prepare Sauce

    In a small saucepan, heat chicken broth and drizzle over the baked chicken before serving.

  9. Garnish and Serve

    Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and serve hot.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftovers, place the Crispy Dill Chicken Delight in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. If freezing, ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Crispy Dill Chicken Delight with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. A lemon wedge can enhance the flavors when served.

Recipe Variations

For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. You can also use different herbs like parsley or thyme to change the flavor profile.