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23 Easy Sauces for Grilled Chicken to Try Tonight

These 23 easy sauces for grilled chicken will take your dinner from ordinary to extraordinary!

Perfect for busy weeknights, each sauce is simple to make and will transform your grilled chicken into something truly special.

Homemade BBQ Sauce

Read on to discover delicious flavor combinations that your family will love!

Read Also: Grilled Chicken Wine Pairing – The Best Wines for Grilled Chicken

1. Lemon Butter Sauce

Whenever I make steak (or chicken) on the grill, it’s always accompanied by a lemon butter sauce.

This recipe is really simple and doesn’t require many ingredients which makes it even better!

The sourness of the lemon juice perfectly compliments the flavor of your grilled meats while the salt and pepper bring out all of its delicious flavors.

The hot water helps reliably mix the ingredients together, so you don’t have to worry about any unpleasant lumps.

Every single time I’ve served this sauce with my grilling creations, it’s been met with an overwhelming appreciation from my dining guests!

It never fails to leave every meal memorable and satisfying.

—Kyle Ketzner, Boulder, Colorado

2. Honey Garlic Sauce

I remember the first time I had honey garlic sauce.

It was at a friend’s house and she had created her own version of this sweet, garlicky goodness.

Ever since then, I’ve always been a fan of this delicious condiment.

Recently, I decided to take matters into my own hands and develop my own recipe for honey garlic sauce that would be perfect for any grilled meats.

The balance between the sweetness of honey and the acidity from rice vinegar creates an amazing flavor that is sure to leave an impression on anyone who tried it.

If you’re looking for something new to put on your table, this honey garlic sauce recipe should definitely be your go-to!

—Danny Smith

3. Dill Sauce

When I first tried this recipe, I knew it had to become a staple in my kitchen.

It is the perfect accompaniment to any grilled meat and adds such amazing flavor.

The tartness of the lemon juice combined with the fresh dill and garlic salt creates an incredibly unique but delicious combination that pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or a side salad.

—Samantha Smith, Detroit, Michigan

4. Béarnaise Sauce

As an avid griller, I’m always looking for something extra to elevate the flavor of my grilled proteins.

When I came across this Béarnaise sauce recipe, it quickly became a favorite in my kitchen.

The combination of white wine vinegar and egg yolks gives it an unbelievably creamy texture and that tarragon!

If you like your sauces tangy, adding a squeeze of lemon adds just enough kick.

Plus, the bonus is that you can make so much ahead of time and store it in the fridge for whenever you’re ready to grill up a delicious dinner.

—Stella Smith, Portland, Oregon

5. Horseradish Dill Sauce

I discovered this delicious horseradish-dill sauce recipe when looking for a different kind of condiment to try at one of my grilling parties.

The combination of creamy sour cream with the zesty horseradish, fresh dill, and tangy lemon juice creates the perfect balance of flavors that make it ideal for marinating or as a dipping sauce.

It adds the perfect kick to grilled fish and chicken, plus it’s so simple to prepare!

I’ve served this sauce on many special occasions and everyone loves it!

—Jennifer Jackson, Houston Texas

6. Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce

My Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce has become a go-to condiment for when I’m grilling out.

The combination of the creamy sour cream, fresh cilantro, and bright tanginess of the lime creates an invigorating yet balanced flavor that adds depth to any dish.

It’s been especially popular with my kids who love it on all kinds of sandwiches, wraps, and even as a dip for veggies.

Everyone always comments on how this sauce is packed with zesty goodness!

—Kamal Mistry, Los Angeles, California

7. Tangy Leek and Olive Gremolata Sauce

I find the combination of tart leeks and olives to be absolutely delicious!

This tangy gremolata sauce brings together all my favorite flavors for grilling in one simple dish.

The zest and juice of the lemon add a delightful brightness, while the garlic, capers, and basil provide a savory kick that complements grilled meats so well.

I like to serve this sauce with grilled steak or chicken for an unforgettable summer dinner.

—Rina Smith, Portland, Oregon

8. Beurre Blanc Sauce

This Beurre Blanc Sauce recipe is near and dear to my heart, as it was the first gourmet sauce I ever made.

It has such a light and creamy texture that pairs perfectly with grilled fish or chicken.

The shallots give it a nice little kick of flavor, while the lemon juice brightens up the overall taste.

The cayenne pepper adds just enough heat without being overpowering, making it ideal for all palettes.

I like to use Sauvignon Blanc for an extra zing but Riesling works wonderfully too!

All-in-all this delicious sauce makes grilling much more enjoyable!

—Yareli Lopez, Dallas, Texas

9. Enchilada Sauce

I first tried this enchilada sauce recipe when I was grilling for a family gathering.

It’s the best enchilada sauce I’ve ever had!

The combination of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, and cinnamon creates an amazing flavor that pairs well with anything you’re grilling.

Plus, it’s so easy to make – all you have to do is combine all the ingredients together in a pot and simmer until thickened.

I added some tomato paste for extra richness and sweetness.

This sauce has become my go-to condiment for grilled meats – it’s just SO good!

—Karen Gomez, New York City

10. Chipotle Tahini Sauce

This Chipotle Tahini Sauce is my go-to condiment for grilling.

It has the perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and zesty flavors thanks to the chipotles in adobo sauce combined with tahini and orange juice.

I love how versatile this sauce is; it can be used as a marinade or spread directly onto meats while they cook, making sure every bite is packed with flavor.

Plus, it takes minutes to prepare and stores nicely in the fridge!

—Molly Martin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

11. Pesto

I love pesto.

The freshness of the basil combined with nutty pine nuts, sharp Parmesan cheese, and garlic creates a delicious blend that I can’t get enough of.

I like to slather it on my grilled veggie skewers or marinade meats in it before cooking them on the grill.

It’s also an easy way to turn plain pasta into something special! No matter how you choose to use it, one thing is certain – you won’t be disappointed.

—Whitney McCormick, Los Angeles, California

12. Peanut Sauce

This Peanut Sauce recipe has been a favorite in my family for years.

Our signature dish is egg rolls with peanut sauce and every time I make them, it brings back fond memories of the many parties and dinners we’ve had together.

The combination of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors from the natural peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili garlic sauce creates the perfect balance to complement whatever you pair with it without being overpowering.

And that zesty squeeze of lime juice at the end really takes it over the top!

—David Kwon, San Francisco, California

13. Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

My roasted red pepper sauce has been a lifesaver!

I’ve used it on all kinds of dishes, from the classic grilled steak to salmon or vegetable skewers.

This sauce is so easy to make, yet the flavor of roasted peppers and garlic brings out such amazing depth in any dish.

Plus, with just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can put together this delicious sauce in no time.

I sometimes even add a touch of sugar if I want something sweet.

—Emma Anderson, Houston Texas

14. 5-Minute Coconut Curry Sauce

I love a good curry and this 5-minute Coconut Curry Sauce is no exception!

With its complex flavors, it surprisingly comes together quickly.

Just mix all the ingredients in a saucepan and let it simmer for five minutes. The result is an aromatic, creamy sauce that is absolutely delicious with grilled chicken, pork, or beef.

I’ve even been known to make double batches of this easy recipe because my family loves it so much.

It’s become our go-to meal when we don’t have time to cook anything else!

—Gina Moore, Los Angeles, California

15. Basic Garlic Butter Tomato Sauce

This basic garlic butter tomato sauce is a staple in my kitchen.

Not only does it taste great, but it’s also super easy to make and can be used in countless recipes.

The key to success with this recipe lies in the combination of flavors – tart balsamic vinegar blended with sweet tomatoes, rich butter and savory garlic give this sauce a complexity that brings out the best of grilled meats like steak or pork chops.

I always keep some on hand for those days when I want something quick and delicious.

I love how versatile this sauce is – it manages to stay elevated while still being incredibly simple, making it perfect for all types of occasions.

—Alexandra Wilson, Denver, Colorado

16. Romesco Sauce

I’m a big fan of this Romesco sauce.

I first discovered it while trying to spruce up some grilled meats I had made, and the result was amazing – the nutty taste from the almonds combined with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and smokiness from paprika makes for an unforgettable flavor.

It’s also pretty easy to make since all you have to do is blend all the ingredients together!

Plus, everyone who’s tried it loves it and asks for more.

So far, I’ve used this sauce for grilled chicken, fish tacos, or as a dip with fresh-cut veggies – every time I serve it people go wild!

—Sarah Smith, Phoenix Arizona

17. Cilantro Vinaigrette

I absolutely love this cilantro vinaigrette.

With fresh cilantro, garlic, and red pepper flakes, it’s so flavorful that you don’t need to add much else to make your grilled meats truly special.

I especially enjoy serving it with steak – the spiciness of the red pepper complements the richness of the beef perfectly.

It always gets a lot of compliments, too!

Sometimes I’ll even thin out the vinaigrette with some water if I want a lighter salad dressing.

But no matter how you use it, this is sure to be a hit at your next outdoor gathering.

—Megan Davis, Miami Beach, Florida

18. 5-Minute Cashew Cheese Sauce

I love this cashew cheese sauce recipe because it’s so easy to make and packs a flavorful punch.

I’ve used this one for grilled chicken, pork chops, and even steak.

Every time the dishes come out delicious!

What I especially like is that it’s ready in just 5 minutes – perfect when you don’t have a lot of time to cook.

The combination of roasted cashews, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic, and salt really adds amazing flavor to any dish.

Plus my family loves it – which makes me extra happy!

—Jennifer Smith, Houston, Texas

19. Chimichurri

My favorite way to grill chicken is with a tasty chimichurri sauce.

It’s packed with flavor and aroma, and the fresh herbs give it a wonderful, vibrant color.

I’ve been using this recipe for years – it has all my favorite ingredients: garlic, parsley, red chili peppers, oregano, salt and pepper.

Every time I make it I’m reminded of warm summer days spent outside with friends and family cooking delicious meals on the barbecue.

Even if you’re not a fan of spicy food (like me!), you’ll definitely enjoy this mild version of chimichurri that still packs plenty of flavor without overwhelming your palate.

—Valerie Smith, Portland Oregon

20. Honey Mustard Sauce

The other day, I was grilling chicken for dinner and wanted something to drizzle over the top.

I had some pantry staples so I decided to try this honey mustard sauce recipe.

The combination of sweet honey, tangy dijon, yellow mustard, and a little apple cider vinegar creates the most addictively delicious flavor!

I’ve since used it on salads and sandwiches too.

Whenever I serve it, people always ask me for the recipe – which gratifies me every time!

—Jimmy Johnson, New York City

21. 5-Minute Yum Yum Sauce

This 5-minute Yum Yum Sauce is a great way to dress up grilled chicken.

I first discovered the recipe while searching for something tasty and easy to make in just minutes.

It has quickly become my go-to sauce when I’m running short on time but still want to impress dinner guests with delicious flavor.

The combination of savory mayonnaise, butter, tomato paste, and spices creates a complex flavor that compliments almost any kind of protein.

It’s definitely worth a try if you’re looking for an unexpected way to add zing to your dinner plate.

—Anita Singh, Los Angeles, California

22. Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce

As soon as I tasted this Carolina mustard BBQ sauce, I knew it was a keeper.

It’s tangy and sweet, thanks to the combination of yellow mustard, honey, and vinegar.

The ketchup and Worcestershire give it an extra depth of flavor that really sets it apart from other sauces.

I’ve used this recipe to make grilled chicken that my friends can’t stop raving about.

It doesn’t matter whether they’re die-hard barbecue fans or just looking for something different – everyone loves this sauce!

And if you’re feeling adventurous you can always add a bit more hot sauce or some garlic powder too.

—John Smith, Raleigh, North Carolina

23. Sweet and Sour Sauce

I have never been a big fan of sweet and sour sauce, but this recipe changed my mind.

I used it as a marinade for grilled chicken and the result was amazing!

The tartness of the vinegar perfectly complemented the sweetness of the pineapple juice, while the ketchup added an umami depth.

And I love how you can customize it to your liking — if you want more tanginess or sweetness, just adjust accordingly.

I’m now obsessed with this sauce and make it all the time for entertaining and family meals alike!

—Julia Sharp, San Francisco, California

Related:

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15 Sauces for Mashed Potatoes I Can’t Resist

9 Sauces for Boiled Potatoes I Can’t Resist

13 Sauces for Honey Baked Ham I Can’t Resist

Homemade BBQ Sauce

23 Easy Sauces for Grilled Chicken to Try Tonight

If you're like me, you've had the same grilled chicken recipe for years. But tonight, break out of the same-old-same-old and try something new with these 23 easy sauces for grilled chicken! From classic marinades to creative twists, you won't believe the delicious flavor combinations you can create.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Sauce
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 451 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Lemon Butter Sauce
  • Honey Garlic Sauce
  • Dill Sauce
  • Béarnaise Sauce
  • Horseradish Dill Sauce
  • Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce
  • Tangy Leek and Olive Gremolata Sauce
  • Beurre Blanc Sauce
  • Enchilada Sauce
  • Chipotle Tahini Sauce
  • Pesto
  • Peanut Sauce
  • Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
  • 5-Minute Coconut Curry Sauce
  • Basic Garlic Butter Tomato Sauce
  • Romesco Sauce
  • Cilantro Vinaigrette
  • 5-Minute Cashew Cheese Sauce
  • Chimichurri
  • Honey Mustard Sauce
  • 5-Minute Yum Yum Sauce
  • Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce
  • Sweet and Sour Sauce

Instructions
 

  • Pick your favorite sauce from this collection.
  • Prepare all of the required ingredients.
  • Make your sauce in 15 minutes or less.
CEO at Happy Muncher | benjamin@happymuncher.com | Website | + posts

Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.