If you’re searching for a dish that’s both refreshing and packed with flavor, look no further than this Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe. Juicy, perfectly charred chicken breasts come alive with a smooth, tangy, and herbaceous dill sauce that feels like a cool breeze on a sunny day. It’s the kind of recipe that’s straightforward yet elegant enough for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend BBQ with friends, making it an instant favorite in any kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple with basic ingredients that come together beautifully to create a harmonious blend of taste, texture, and color. Each component plays a crucial role in enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and adding that irresistibly creamy dill twist.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, lean and perfect for grilling to juicy perfection.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the chicken brown evenly and lock in moisture during grilling.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a mellow, savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and enhances the overall seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives the chicken a gentle kick of heat and complexity.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Forms the base of the creamy dill sauce with a pleasant tang.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds richness and smooth texture to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the sauce with a lively citrus note.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (or 2 teaspoons dried dill): The herbaceous heart of the sauce, lending freshness and a distinctive flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Provides subtle heat and complexity to the creamy dressing.
- 1 garlic clove (minced): Complements the garlic powder with a fresh, pungent burst.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Fine-tunes the sauce seasoning to your liking.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels; this is key to getting that beautiful char when grilling. Rub them with olive oil to keep the meat moist and ensure the seasoning sticks nicely. Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper—this simple seasoning sets the foundation for that rich, smoky grilled flavor.
Step 2: Heat Up the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sear the chicken and create those signature grill marks but not so hot that it burns the outside before the inside cooks through. A well-heated grill ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6 to 8 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F, the safe point where the chicken is perfectly cooked yet still tender. Look for a nicely charred exterior that adds smoky flavor and irresistible texture.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Dill Sauce
While the chicken sizzles away, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy. This sauce is fresh, tangy, and herb-forward—an instant bright contrast to the warm, smoky chicken.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once grilled, allow the chicken breasts to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This step lets the juices redistribute within the meat, ensuring every bite is succulent. Serve each piece with a generous spoonful of the creamy dill sauce on top for a delicious balance of juicy and creamy textures.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes such as freshly chopped dill or a lemon wedge not only brightens the presentation but enhances the flavor authenticity of this dish. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top adds visual appeal and a subtle spicy note.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides. Roasted vegetables with their caramelized edges complement the creamy dill sauce beautifully, while a crisp cucumber salad offers a cool, refreshing crunch that echoes the dill flavor. For a heartier option, light rice pilaf or quinoa works nicely to soak up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the grilled chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens drizzled with the creamy dill sauce. Consider using the chicken as a filling for wraps or sandwiches along with fresh veggies and extra dill sauce for a portable, flavorful meal perfect for picnics.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover grilled chicken and dill sauce can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce apart prevents the chicken from getting soggy and helps retain its texture and flavor.
Freezing
While the chicken can be frozen, the creamy dill sauce is best fresh but can be frozen if necessary. Freeze the cooked chicken breasts wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently on a stovetop over low heat or in the microwave to avoid drying it out. Add the creamy dill sauce cold or warmed slightly on the side to keep its texture and flavor fresh.
FAQs
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill in this recipe?
Absolutely! Dried dill works perfectly in this recipe and is actually listed as an option. Just use about one-third of the amount specified for fresh dill since dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, as no wheat-based ingredients are used.
Can I make the creamy dill sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy dill sauce up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This actually gives the flavors time to meld, making the sauce even more delicious.
What’s a good alternative to sour cream if I want a lighter sauce?
Greek yogurt is a fantastic lighter substitute for sour cream in the creamy dill sauce. It brings a similar tang and creaminess with fewer calories and more protein.
How do I know when the chicken breasts are fully cooked?
The safest and most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer and check for an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and remains juicy without drying out.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken Breast with Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe truly hits the mark for a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s straightforward enough for a quick dinner yet full of vibrant flavors that make every bite memorable. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so spectacular. Your future self will thank you!
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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
A simple and flavorful grilled chicken breast recipe served with a creamy dill sauce, perfect for a light and refreshing main course. The chicken is seasoned with garlic and onion powder, then grilled to juicy perfection, topped with a tangy dill sauce made from sour cream, mayonnaise, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
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
Dill Sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (or 2 teaspoons dried dill)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure it’s hot enough to properly cook and sear the chicken breasts.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub each breast lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and help seasoning adhere. Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outside has a nice charred appearance.
- Make the Dill Sauce: While the chicken grills, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl until smooth and well-combined.
- Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
- Serve: Plate each chicken breast and spoon a generous amount of creamy dill sauce over the top. Serve immediately.
Notes
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad.
- For a lighter dill sauce, substitute Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
- The dill sauce can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator for convenience.
