Chicken with Honey Thyme Glaze

Name: Chicken with Honey Thyme Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried thyme); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Oven Cooking

I love making Chicken with Honey Thyme Glaze when I want to impress friends or enjoy a cozy dinner at home. The combination of sweet honey and fragrant thyme brings a delightful flavor to the chicken. Preparing this dish is straightforward, and it fills the kitchen with a wonderful aroma that makes my mouth water. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, offering both a pleasing appearance and a tasty finish. I often serve this chicken with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that everyone enjoys.

Created by

Nerissa Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:37:35.333Z

I remember the first time I made Chicken with Honey Thyme Glaze for my family. They were pleasantly surprised by the tender and juicy chicken paired with the sweet and herby flavor of the glaze. I discovered that marinating the chicken for even a short time elevates the taste, allowing the honey and thyme to penetrate the meat. It’s simple yet sophisticated enough for any occasion.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe by adjusting the amounts of honey and thyme to balance sweetness and herbaceousness. The key is to cook the chicken to perfection without drying it out. Basting it with the glaze while it cooks helps achieve that delectable caramelized finish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory glaze that perfectly complements the chicken
Aromatic thyme infuses the dish with a fresh flavor
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners

Understanding the Ingredients

The key ingredient in this recipe is the honey, which not only provides sweetness but also aids in creating a beautiful caramelization when cooked. When choosing honey, opt for a more natural variety, such as clover or wildflower, to enhance the depth of flavor. If you're looking for a less sweet alternative, maple syrup can also be used, though it will impart a different level of richness to the dish.

Fresh thyme is crucial in bringing a fragrant, earthy flavor to the chicken. If you find yourself without fresh thyme, dried thyme can work, but be aware that it is more concentrated. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh, as they tend to be more potent. Additionally, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor that complements both the honey and thyme.

Cooking Technique Tips

When searing the chicken, ensure your skillet is adequately heated before adding the meat. You want to hear a satisfying sizzle as you lay the chicken in. This initial high heat will help seal in the juices and create that desirable golden-brown crust. If you notice the chicken sticking, try not to force it; give it another minute or so before attempting to turn it—it should release naturally when properly seared.

Monitoring the internal temperature of the chicken is crucial. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the breast; it should read 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's safely cooked. If you find the chicken browning too quickly, you can turn down the heat slightly or cover the pan with a lid to promote even cooking without burning the glaze.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Chicken with Honey Thyme Glaze.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried thyme)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the Chicken with Honey Thyme Glaze.

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.

Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix honey, thyme, olive oil, and lemon juice until well combined.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

Add the Glaze

Pour the honey thyme glaze over the chicken and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle more glaze over the top and enjoy!

Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken in the glaze for a couple of hours before cooking. This will enhance the sweetness and herbiness of the dish!

Serving Suggestions

To complement the flavors of the Honey Thyme Glaze, consider serving the chicken with roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini. The sweetness of the honey pairs beautifully with the natural sugars in the veggies, creating a cohesive meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

For an added twist, try serving the chicken over a bed of quinoa or couscous. This not only stretches the meal but also absorbs the delicious glaze, making every bite flavorful. You could also consider adding some diced nuts or feta cheese to the grain base for added texture and flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover chicken with Honey Thyme Glaze can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the chicken moist during storage, try to store it with some of the glaze drizzled over the top. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as mentioned. This makes it convenient for a quick dinner option on busy nights.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure it is cooked through.

→ What can I serve with this chicken?

This dish goes well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and glaze ahead of time, then cook it just before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.