If you’re craving a dish that feels both fresh and comforting, the Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need to brighten your dinner table. Juicy, perfectly grilled chicken breasts meet a luscious, tangy dill sauce made with Greek yogurt and honey that turns every bite into a celebration of flavor. This recipe is a wonderful balance of smoky grill marks and smooth, herby creaminess that’s sure to become a new favorite for weeknight meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a key role in building flavor and texture. From the zesty lemon juice that tenderizes the chicken to the fresh dill that brings that signature herbal brightness, these ingredients come together effortlessly to create a meal that’s both vibrant and satisfying.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing tender, lean protein that grills beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Adds moisture and richness while helping the marinade coat the chicken evenly.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Brings a bright, citrusy tang that balances the richness and acts as a tenderizer.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of savory aroma and depth to the marinade.
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt: The foundation of the creamy dill sauce, giving it a thick, cooling texture.
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped: Provides fresh herbal notes that define the sauce’s unique flavor.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Adds a subtle sweetness that rounds out the tangy and herbal components of the sauce.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Begin by patting your chicken breasts dry to ensure they grill nicely without steaming. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to bring out the natural flavors. This simple seasoning is crucial: it forms the foundation that the marinade and sauce will build upon.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic in a bowl. This vibrant marinade infuses the chicken with bright, savory notes while keeping it moist during grilling. Place the chicken breasts in the marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes, turning occasionally so every inch gets coated in this flavorful bath.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for that perfect char. Grill each breast for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). Keep the chicken moist by resisting the urge to flip it too often; steady heat will give you those gorgeous grill marks and juicy meat inside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Dill Sauce
While the chicken cooks, mix Greek yogurt, freshly chopped dill, and honey in a bowl until smooth. This sauce is where the magic happens — its creamy texture complements the smoky chicken beautifully, and the dill adds an herbaceous brightness that feels fresh and summery.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once grilled, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to lock in juices, then plate it up. Generously spoon the creamy dill sauce over the top and get ready to dive into a meal that’s equal parts simple and spectacular.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped dill, lemon wedges, or even a few thinly sliced scallions can elevate the presentation and add bursts of fresh flavor just when you need them. These simple touches make a beautiful plate that looks as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with light and fresh sides like a crisp mixed green salad, roasted vegetables, or a fluffy quinoa pilaf. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice pilaf let the chicken and dill sauce shine while adding a comforting base.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests or just want to mix things up, slice the grilled chicken and layer it over a bed of colorful salad greens or grain bowls. Drizzle the creamy dill sauce across the top for a restaurant-worthy presentation that’s fresh, approachable, and utterly delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover grilled chicken breasts and creamy dill sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay juicy and tender for up to 3 days, while the sauce remains fresh and vibrant for about the same amount of time.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken breasts, but for best results, do not freeze the creamy dill sauce. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag or container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
When reheating, gently warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave to avoid drying it out. Add a little splash of water or broth to keep things moist. Reapply the creamy dill sauce when serving to maintain its fresh texture and bright flavor.
FAQs
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh for the sauce?
While fresh dill provides the best flavor and texture for the creamy sauce, you can substitute dried dill if needed. Use about one-third the amount, and keep in mind the flavor won’t be as vibrant or fresh.
Is Greek yogurt essential for the sauce?
Greek yogurt is ideal due to its thick and creamy consistency, which forms the base of the sauce. You can substitute with sour cream or crème fraîche for a similar texture, but regular yogurt may be too thin.
Can this recipe be made without a grill?
Absolutely! You can pan-sear the chicken on the stove or bake it in the oven. Grilling adds that smoky flavor and charred texture, but the dish is delicious no matter how you cook the chicken.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At a minimum, 30 minutes is recommended for the marinade to impart flavor and tenderness. You can marinate for up to 2 hours without any issues, but avoid leaving it too long as the lemon juice might start to “cook” the chicken.
Is the creamy dill sauce suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This sauce holds up well in the fridge for a few days, making it a great addition to meal prep. Just keep it separate until ready to serve for the freshest flavor and best texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to bring something fresh, bright, and truly satisfying to your dinner rotation, you won’t regret trying the Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe. It’s straightforward, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Once you try it, you might find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again to share it with friends and family because good food like this deserves to be enjoyed and celebrated often.
Print
Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful and healthy Grilled Chicken Breast recipe served with a refreshing and creamy dill sauce, perfect for a quick and delicious meal in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Creamy Dill Sauce
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their natural flavor.
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic. Place the chicken breasts into the mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even coating and absorption of flavors.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is thoroughly cooked and juicy.
- Make the creamy dill sauce: While the chicken is grilling, combine Greek yogurt, chopped fresh dill, and honey in a bowl. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy, balancing tangy and sweet flavors.
- Serve: Place the grilled chicken breasts on serving plates and generously spoon the creamy dill sauce over the top. Serve immediately for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for longer, up to 2 hours, for deeper flavor.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream if preferred.
- Make sure the grill is properly preheated to prevent sticking and to achieve nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking.
- Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
