Mediterranean Creamy Dill Chicken and Mushrooms
This Mediterranean Creamy Dill Chicken and Mushrooms recipe delivers the same comforting flavor and silky texture as the classic version, but without using butter. Instead, extra virgin olive oil and careful technique create richness while keeping the dish lighter and more heart-healthy. The result is a balanced, aromatic skillet meal where tender chicken and earthy mushrooms are coated in a creamy dill sauce that feels indulgent yet clean. Lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs bring brightness, making this dish perfect for anyone looking for comfort food with a Mediterranean approach. It is simple enough for weeknights and elegant enough for guests.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
680 g (1½ lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
225 g (8 oz) mushrooms, sliced
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
¾ cup cooking cream or half-and-half
Zest of ½ lemon
Juice of ½ lemon
2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional garnish: extra fresh dill or cracked black pepper
Instructions
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through, then remove and set aside.
Add the remaining olive oil to the same skillet and reduce heat slightly.
Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mushrooms and stir well to coat.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring, followed by the cream, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Return the chicken to the pan and simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens, then stir in fresh dill and adjust seasoning before serving.
Tips
Olive oil provides richness without heaviness, so use a good-quality one.
Chicken thighs stay juicier, while breasts keep the dish lighter.
Do not rush browning the chicken, as color equals flavor.
Cook mushrooms until golden to build depth in the sauce.
Add flour evenly to avoid lumps and raw flour taste.
Stir constantly when adding liquids for a smooth sauce.
Keep heat gentle once cream is added to prevent splitting.
Fresh dill is essential for the signature flavor.
Add lemon juice gradually and taste as you go.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to thicken naturally.
Variations
Greek-Style: Add crumbled feta and extra lemon zest before serving.
Low-Carb Option: Skip flour and thicken with a spoon of Greek yogurt.
Garlic-Forward: Increase garlic and add roasted garlic paste.
Spinach Addition: Stir in fresh spinach during the final simmer.
White Wine Version: Replace half the broth with dry white wine.
Herb Blend: Combine dill with parsley and thyme.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of dairy cream.
Extra Mushroom: Double the mushrooms for a heartier dish.
Zucchini Boost: Add thinly sliced zucchini with mushrooms.
Spicy Touch: Add chili flakes or cracked pepper for gentle heat.
Q&A
Does removing butter change the flavor?
No, olive oil and herbs provide plenty of richness.
Is this version healthier?
Yes, it is lower in saturated fat and more Mediterranean-friendly.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, store refrigerated for up to two days.
Does it reheat well?
Yes, reheat gently over low heat.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not ideal due to the cream-based sauce.
What mushrooms work best?
Button, cremini, or mixed mushrooms all work well.
Is this gluten-free?
Use cornstarch instead of flour to make it gluten-free.
What should I serve with it?
Rice, potatoes, quinoa, or crusty bread pair well.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and creamy.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 390–430
Protein: 34–38 g
Carbohydrates: 8–12 g
Fat: 24–28 g
Fiber: 2 g
Values vary depending on cream and chicken cut used.
Conclusion
This butter-free version of Mediterranean Creamy Dill Chicken and Mushrooms proves that comfort food does not need butter to feel rich and satisfying. Olive oil, fresh herbs, lemon, and careful cooking create a smooth, flavorful sauce that coats the chicken beautifully. Light yet comforting, easy to prepare, and endlessly adaptable, this recipe fits perfectly into a Mediterranean-style kitchen and is one you can enjoy with confidence and balance any day of the week.