If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you absolutely need to try this Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe. Juicy, tender chicken breasts grilled to perfection get a lush coating of velvety, herb-infused dill sauce that brightens every bite. The combination of smoky, simply seasoned chicken paired with the tangy freshness of creamy dill makes this recipe a forever favorite for summer meals or anytime you want to impress without fuss. It’s easy, flavorful, and just downright satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward staples that come together beautifully to create a dish bursting with flavor and pleasing textures. Each item plays its part, from the olive oil that keeps the chicken moist to the fresh dill that adds that signature aromatic punch in the sauce.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein foundation that grills up juicy and tender.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps seal in moisture and prevents the chicken from sticking to the grill.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth without overpowering the chicken’s natural flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the seasoning with a subtle sweetness and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle kick of heat and earthiness.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Creates the creamy, tangy base for the dill sauce.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds richness and smooth texture to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A bright splash that balances the creamy elements with acidity.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill): The herb star of the show, bringing freshness and herbal notes.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Introduces a subtle sharpness that elevates the sauce.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Fresh garlic contributes a vibrant punch to the sauce’s flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Final seasoning to perfect the sauce and overall dish.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by heating your grill to medium-high. While it’s warming up, brush each chicken breast generously with the olive oil. This not only keeps the meat moist while grilling but also helps the seasoning stick better. Then, sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over both sides. This simple but flavorful rub will ensure every bite is seasoned perfectly.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes per side, turning only once if possible, to achieve those lovely grill marks and even cooking. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the juices run clear—an important step to keep your chicken juicy and safe to eat. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes; this allows the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Dill Sauce
While the chicken is grilling, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, chopped dill, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Stir until you have a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed to balance all the flavors. This sauce brings a bright, cool, and creamy contrast to the smoky grilled chicken that you won’t want to miss.
Step 4: Serve it Up
Place each rested chicken breast on a plate and dollop a generous spoonful of the creamy dill sauce right on top. The sauce’s herby freshness perfectly complements the grilled chicken’s savory, smoky flavor, turning a simple dinner into a delightful experience.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra fresh dill or finely chopped parsley over the sauce to add a pop of color and extra freshness. Lemon wedges on the side offer a zesty squeeze that livens up the dish just before eating.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crispy roasted potatoes that soak up any extra sauce, fluffy steamed rice to balance the flavors, or a bright, crunchy green salad to keep things light and refreshing. Together, these sides create a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the chicken sliced over a bed of mixed greens drizzled with a bit of extra dill sauce for a stunning presentation. For an even more casual vibe, try serving it on toasted buns with pickles and lettuce for a gourmet chicken sandwich that will wow family and friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover grilled chicken breast and creamy dill sauce can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce separate prevents the chicken from becoming soggy and preserves texture.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, put the cooked chicken breasts in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze the dill sauce separately in a small freezer-safe container, as freezing dairy-based sauces can sometimes change the texture slightly.
Reheating
When reheating the chicken, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then gently warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Reheat the dill sauce separately at room temperature or chilled, giving it a quick stir before serving to bring back its smooth consistency.
FAQs
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Yes! While fresh dill gives the brightest and most vibrant flavor, dried dill works well in a pinch. Just use about one-third the amount of dried dill compared to fresh to avoid overpowering the sauce.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. This Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe contains only naturally gluten-free ingredients, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make the creamy dill sauce vegan?
To make a vegan version, you can substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives and use maple syrup or lemon juice to adjust the flavor. The dill and mustard will still give the sauce that delightful tang.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to confirm doneness is to use a meat thermometer and check for an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part to ensure the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.
Can this recipe be cooked indoors?
Definitely! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, use a grill pan or a regular skillet on the stovetop. Cooking times might be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe has quickly become a staple for those who love easy, delicious meals with a fresh twist. Once you try it, you’ll appreciate how the simple ingredients come together to create something truly special. Give it a go and watch it become your go-to recipe for weeknights or any time you want to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
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: Gluten Free
Description
This Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce is a perfect summer dish featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts seasoned with garlic and onion powders, grilled to perfection, and topped with a luscious homemade dill sauce. The sauce combines sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, fresh dill, Dijon mustard, and garlic to create a creamy, tangy complement to the smoky grilled chicken. It’s a quick and easy recipe ideal for a healthy main course that pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Dill Sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it is properly heated before placing the chicken on it for even cooking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to infuse flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6 to 8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear, indicating the chicken is fully cooked.
- Make the Creamy Dill Sauce: While the chicken is grilling, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, fresh dill, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Serve: Serve the grilled chicken breasts with a generous spoonful of the creamy dill sauce drizzled over the top for a flavorful finish.
Notes
- You can prepare the creamy dill sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for convenience.
- Using fresh dill in the sauce provides the best flavor, but dried dill can be substituted if fresh is unavailable.
- This grilled chicken pairs excellently with side dishes like roasted potatoes, steamed rice, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
