Sear-Blackened Chicken Thighs with Lemon-Dill Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Crispy-skinned chicken thighs cooked in avocado oil with a bright lemon-dill sauce that complements the rich meat. This american-inspired keto (low carb, dairy-free) ready in about 30 minutes blends (12 oz total) boneless chicken thighs, avocado oil, smoked paprika into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.2 (10 ratings) Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 American cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season evenly with 1 tsp smoked paprika and 1/2 tsp garlic powder.
  2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 1 minute). Place chicken skin-side down, pressing gently to ensure even contact, and cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Step 3: Flip chicken, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 8-10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F, basting occasionally with pan drippings.
  4. Step 4: Remove chicken, then add 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp lemon zest, and 2 tbsp chopped dill to the skillet. Melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat, whisking until emulsified and slightly thickened (about 2 minutes).
  5. Step 5: Pour sauce over chicken, ensuring each piece is coated, and serve immediately.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Sear-Blackened Chicken Thighs with Lemon-Dill Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Sear-Blackened Chicken Thighs with Lemon-Dill Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Sear-Blackened Chicken Thighs with Lemon-Dill Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Sear-Blackened Chicken Thighs with Lemon-Dill Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Sear-Blackened Chicken Thighs with Lemon-Dill Sauce low carb?

Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb, dairy-free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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