Looking for a meal that’s both light and incredibly satisfying? This Grilled Chicken Breast with Salad & Creamy Herb Sauce is your answer! It’s a fresh, flavorful, and protein-packed dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a delightful light lunch. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned grilled chicken, served atop a bed of crisp, mixed greens, and drizzled with a vibrant, zesty creamy herb sauce. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that feels indulgent but is genuinely good for you.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe has become a personal favorite because it proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or boring. I love how the simple marinade infuses the chicken with savory notes, giving it a beautiful crust and juicy interior when grilled. But the real magic lies in that creamy herb sauce! Made with Greek yogurt, it’s light, tangy, and bursting with fresh flavors, perfectly complementing the chicken and greens.

It’s an incredibly efficient meal to prepare, especially if you have a grill or a hot skillet. The minimal prep and cook time mean you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s highly customizable; you can swap out greens, add extra veggies, or play with different herbs in the sauce. It’s truly a feel-good meal that leaves you energized and satisfied.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this fresh and flavorful meal:

• 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Fresh chopped herbs (chives, parsley, or a mix)
• Mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach, or your favorite blend)
• 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (plain)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Swaps and Notes

• Chicken: Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier result, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Marinade Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of dried oregano, onion powder, or a tiny bit of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick to the chicken.
• Fresh Herbs: Chives and parsley offer a classic flavor, but fresh dill, mint, or cilantro would also be delicious in the sauce, depending on your preference.
• Mixed Greens: Use any combination of fresh, crisp greens you enjoy. Romaine, butter lettuce, or spring mix are all great choices.
• Creamy Base: Plain Greek yogurt provides a lighter, tangier sauce, while sour cream makes it richer. Choose what suits your taste!
• Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is essential for the bright, zesty flavor of the sauce.

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Instructions

Getting this delicious and healthy meal on your table is a breeze. Here’s how:

1. Marinate Chicken: In a bowl or on a plate, rub the chicken breasts all over with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure they’re evenly coated. Let the chicken sit and marinate for at least 15–30 minutes at room temperature while you prepare the other components.
2. Grill Chicken: Preheat your grill or a large skillet (cast iron works great) over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts. Cook for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown, has nice grill marks, and is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes on a cutting board.
3. Prepare Creamy Herb Sauce: While the chicken is resting, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Assemble & Serve: Slice the rested grilled chicken breast into even strips or medallions. Arrange a generous bed of mixed greens on your serving plates. Top the greens with the sliced grilled chicken. Drizzle generously with the creamy herb sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Pro Tips

• Don’t Overcook Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) then remove them from the heat. Resting also helps keep them juicy.
• Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: While dried herbs can be used in a pinch, fresh herbs in the sauce truly elevate the flavor profile.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a tiny splash of water or milk to thin it to your desired consistency.
• Season Every Layer: Ensure you season the chicken well before grilling, and taste the sauce to adjust salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
• Prep Ahead: The chicken can be marinated for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can always add a few simple sides or pairings.

• Light Lunch or Dinner: It’s perfect just as it is for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
• Refreshing Drink: A glass of This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Dayswould be a delightful and zesty accompaniment.
• Grain Addition: For a heartier meal, serve alongside a small portion of quinoa or brown rice.
• Crusty Bread: A light, crusty whole-grain bread could be a nice addition to scoop up extra sauce.
• Other Chicken Dishes: If you enjoy lean chicken recipes, you might also like my A Light, Tangy Chicken Salad I Actually Crave (and There’s No Mayo in Sight) for another fresh option.

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Storage and Leftover Tips

This meal is best enjoyed fresh, especially the salad greens.

• Storage (Separated): If you have leftovers or are meal prepping, store the cooked chicken and sauce separately from the mixed greens in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This prevents the greens from wilting.
• Reheating Chicken: Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or microwave until just warm to avoid drying it out.
• Sauce: The sauce will keep well in the fridge. Give it a quick whisk before serving if it has separated slightly.
• Assemble Fresh: Always assemble the salad and add the sauce just before you’re ready to eat for the best texture and freshness.

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More Recipes You Will Love

If you loved the fresh, healthy, and easy approach of this grilled chicken dish, you’ll definitely want to explore some of these other fantastic recipes:

• For another fantastic light and tangy chicken dish that’s great for meal prep, check out A Light, Tangy Chicken Salad I Actually Crave (and There’s No Mayo in Sight).
• If you’re a fan of easy chicken and rice combinations, my This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole Is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit is a comforting option.
• And for another quick and customizable meal that’s great for feeding a group, These Sheet Pan Quesadillas Are My Favorite Way to Feed a Crowd Fast are always a hit.

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Final Thoughts

This Grilled Chicken Breast with Salad & Creamy Herb Sauce is a true game-changer for healthy and delicious eating. It’s proof that fresh ingredients, simple seasonings, and a vibrant sauce are all you need to create a meal that’s both nourishing and incredibly satisfying. Give it a try—it’s sure to become a new favorite in your rotation!

What are your go-to lean protein and salad combinations? Share your ideas in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more delicious and easy recipes that bring joy to your kitchen.