Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Chicken

Name: Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Meals Inspiration

I love how this Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Chicken comes together to create a flavorful and refreshing dish. The zesty lemon pairs wonderfully with the dill, while the yogurt adds a creamy texture that makes each bite irresistible. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering and can be served with rice or salad. I appreciate how the marinade infuses the chicken with a bright flavor, making it juicy and tender. Trust me, this recipe is a must-try for any chicken lover!

Created by

Kate Phillips

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:24:35.672Z

When I first experimented with this Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Chicken, I was delighted by how the flavors melded beautifully. Marinating the chicken in yogurt not only tenderizes it but also locks in moisture, ensuring each piece is juicy and flavorful. I chose fresh dill for its aromatic qualities and paired it with a vibrant lemon zest to brighten the dish.

After cooking, I discovered that the combination of tangy and savory flavors made for a fantastic topping on a simple bed of fluffy rice. This dish not only satisfies my flavor cravings but also impresses anyone I serve it to, creating a delightful dining experience!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Tangy yogurt sauce adds a creamy richness to the chicken
Fresh dill brings an aromatic touch that's uplifting
Easy to prepare and quick to cook, perfect for busy nights

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade for Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Chicken is not just a simple mix of ingredients; it serves several vital purposes. The plain yogurt acts as a tenderizer due to its acidity, breaking down the proteins in the chicken for a juicy texture. While the fresh dill adds a bright herbal note, it also helps mask any potential gamey taste of the chicken, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. The balance of lemon juice and zest brings in that zesty freshness, making each bite a delightful experience.

When preparing the marinade, make sure to mix thoroughly to achieve an even consistency. You want the garlic to distribute evenly for that pronounced flavor without overwhelming the dish. If you're short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes will suffice for marinating, but I recommend allowing the chicken to soak in the flavors for a few hours or even overnight if possible. This not only intensifies the taste but also enhances the juiciness.

Cooking Techniques for Perfection

When it's time to cook the marinated chicken, preheating your grill or skillet is crucial. Aim for a medium heat—when you add the chicken, you should hear a satisfying sizzle. This initial sear helps lock in moisture and flavors. Cook for about 7-8 minutes per side, but also keep an eye on the color changes; the chicken should turn golden brown with crispy edges. A meat thermometer can be a handy tool here; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

If you find that your chicken is browning too quickly but isn't cooked through, lower the heat slightly and cover with a lid, which will allow the insides to cook without charring the outside. Alternatively, if you prefer a more smoky flavor, consider finishing the chicken off in the oven after grilling it for a few minutes on each side. Just be sure to monitor carefully to prevent overcooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients for the marinade, ensuring the chicken is well coated.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine the yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.

Serve

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with additional dill sprigs and a side of your choice.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Chicken!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

For a refreshing meal, consider pairing Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Chicken with a simple side salad, loaded with seasonal vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes. The crunch and brightness from the salad will complement the creaminess of the yogurt sauce beautifully. Additionally, drizzling some extra lemon juice over your salad can tie the flavors together and enhance the overall freshness of the dish.

Rice is another fantastic accompaniment, especially a lemon or dill-infused variety. You could even switch things up with quinoa or couscous for a slightly different texture. Just around a cup of cooked grains per serving will suffice. Garnishing your platter with fresh dill sprigs can also elevate the presentation, making it look as good as it tastes.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

If you have leftover chicken, you can store it easily in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet over low heat to maintain the chicken's juicy texture. Freezing is also an option; wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn, and it will last for about 2 months.

For a quick meal prep solution, marinade and grill additional chicken breasts, then slice and store them for use in salads, wraps, or sandwiches throughout the week. You can even toss them in your favorite pasta dishes to enhance flavor without requiring extra sauces. This makes basing several meals around this delicious Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Chicken not only manageable but tantalizingly easy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt will add a thicker texture and creaminess to the sauce.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for even more flavor.

→ What side dishes go well with this chicken?

I recommend serving it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

→ Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked.