Healthy Chicken With Lemon Dill Sauce

Name: Healthy Chicken With Lemon Dill Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh & Fit Meals

I absolutely love cooking this Healthy Chicken with Lemon Dill Sauce because it’s quick, flavorful, and makes healthy eating feel like a treat! The bright notes of lemon combined with the fresh dill elevate the chicken to a whole new level. Each bite is juicy and bursting with flavor, which makes it perfect for any dinner table. Plus, this dish is great for meal prep, so I can enjoy healthy leftovers throughout the week without feeling deprived.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-02-28T07:41:35.214Z

When I first made this Healthy Chicken with Lemon Dill Sauce, I was pleasantly surprised by how much flavor came from such simple ingredients. The lemon juice not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a zesty brightness that keeps the dish refreshing and light. I served it alongside steamed vegetables, creating a complete meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.

One important tip I discovered is to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes if time allows; this extra step truly enhances the flavor. Pairing the chicken with whole grains like quinoa or brown rice also adds a lovely chew and nutty flavor that complements the dill sauce beautifully. Try this dish with your favorite side dishes for a balanced meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing lemon flavor intertwined with fragrant dill
Light and healthy without sacrificing taste
Perfectly juicy chicken that’s easy to prepare

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients of this Healthy Chicken with Lemon Dill Sauce are undeniably the chicken breasts and the fresh herbs. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great because they provide a lean source of protein while being easy to cook. However, you can substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a more flavorful, juicy option. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly, as thighs may require a few additional minutes on the stovetop to reach a safe internal temperature.

Lemon juice and fresh dill play crucial roles in defining the dish's character. The acidity from the lemon juice helps to tenderize the chicken while infusing it with vibrant flavor. Fresh dill can be substituted with dried dill in a pinch, but fresh really elevates the dish with its fragrant and lively notes. Just use one-third of the amount if using dried to prevent overpowering the other flavors.

Cooking Technique Tips

Marinating the chicken is key to ensuring it's flavorful and tender. Aim for at least 15 minutes of marinating to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat adequately. If you have more time, consider marinating for up to two hours in the refrigerator for even deeper flavor. However, avoid marinating too long with acidic ingredients like lemon juice, as it can start to break down the chicken's texture, making it mushy.

When cooking the chicken, use a heavy-bottomed skillet to hold and distribute heat evenly. Preheating the skillet over medium heat is important; if the pan is too hot, the chicken may brown quickly on the outside while remaining raw inside. Look for a golden crust to form on each side, which usually takes about 7 minutes. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, aiming for 165°F for perfect doneness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt to taste

Make sure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your meal:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Cover and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.

Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, mix together the Greek yogurt, lemon zest, chopped dill, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl until smooth.

Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with a generous dollop of dill sauce on top.

Your Healthy Chicken with Lemon Dill Sauce is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle heat.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Healthy Chicken with Lemon Dill Sauce is fantastic for meal prep. You can cook a larger batch and store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain moisture, preventing it from drying out. This not only saves time during busy weeks but also makes healthy eating effortless.

For optimal flavor retention, keep the dill sauce separate until you're ready to serve the chicken. This way, the sauce remains fresh and its texture isn’t compromised by refrigeration. You can also whip up extra sauce to use as a dip for veggies or a spread for sandwiches, making it a versatile addition to your refrigerator!

Serving Suggestions

Serving this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad enhances the healthy aspect of your meal. The bright flavors of the chicken and dill sauce pair well with grilled asparagus, broccoli, or a citrus-based salad to complement the lemon notes of the chicken. You could also serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a heartier option that brings additional fiber and nutrients.

For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing the finished dish with extra dill and lemon slices. This not only adds a pop of color but also reinforces the fresh flavors of the dish. For those who enjoy a little bit of heat, sprinkling some red pepper flakes over the top just before serving can create a delightful flavor contrast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and marinate them before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for dill?

You can use fresh parsley or tarragon if you don’t have dill on hand.

→ How can I make this dish even healthier?

Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for additional nutrients.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.