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–+ servings

Recipe : Quick Lemon Thyme Chicken

This Quick Lemon Thyme Chicken recipe is a simple yet elegant way to bring vibrant flavors to your dinner table. With tender, juicy chicken breasts bathed in a tangy lemon and aromatic thyme sauce, this dish delivers a perfect balance of zestiness and earthiness. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's ideal for busy weeknights or when you need an impressive meal without the fuss. The hint of garlic and the fresh aroma of thyme elevate the flavors, making this a versatile recipe that pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or fresh greens. Whether you're cooking for family or guests, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 320 kcal

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 35gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 420mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 4IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Tongs
  • Whisk
  • Small mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Lemon Thyme Sauce

  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 lemon juice
  • 1 lemon zest
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves chopped, plus extra for garnish
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water (optional, for thickening)
Recipe : Quick Lemon Thyme Chicken

Instructions
 

Sear the Chicken

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
  • Sear chicken in the skillet for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

  • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Stir in honey and chopped thyme.

Simmer and Combine

  • Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce.
  • Simmer for 10-12 minutes, spooning sauce over the chicken occasionally.

Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

  • If the sauce is too thin, mix cornstarch with water and whisk it into the skillet. Simmer for another 2 minutes until thickened.

Garnish and Serve

  • Remove chicken from heat and let it rest for a minute.
  • Plate the chicken and drizzle with sauce. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs.

Tips and Variations

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness. Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or greens for a complete meal. For added flavor, serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Keyword Chicken, Easy Chicken Recipe, Lemon Thyme, Quick Dinner
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