Lemon Thyme Chicken Skillet

Name: Lemon Thyme Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 4 sprigs fresh thyme; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 tablespoon butter

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love making Lemon Thyme Chicken Skillet for a quick and flavorful dinner option. The combination of zesty lemon and fresh thyme brings a delightful brightness to the chicken, making each bite a refreshing experience. I find that cooking everything in one skillet not only saves time on cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad, and you have a complete meal that's both satisfying and nutritious, perfect for any night of the week.

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:14:35.270Z

When I first tried this Lemon Thyme Chicken Skillet, my family was blown away by the incredible flavor profile. The tangy lemon perfectly complements the earthy thyme, and when paired with tender chicken, it creates a dish that's both refreshing and comforting. I discovered that searing the chicken on high heat first really locks in the juices, preventing it from drying out.

One specific tip that has made a difference is adding the lemon juice towards the end of cooking. This keeps its bright flavor intact and prevents it from becoming bitter. Now, this dish is a staple in our household, especially during busy weeknights!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon flavor combined with aromatic thyme
Quick one-pan preparation for easy cooking and cleanup
Tender chicken cooked to perfection, juicy and flavorful

Mastering the Skillet Technique

One of the keys to achieving perfectly seared chicken is ensuring your skillet is hot enough before adding the meat. Preheating the skillet allows the chicken to develop a beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside juicy. Aim for a medium-high heat; when the oil shimmers and starts to ripple, it’s ready for the chicken. Overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature, leading to steaming rather than searing, so cook in batches if needed.

Another essential technique when making this dish is deglazing the skillet after searing the chicken. The bits of fond left on the bottom add incredible flavor to your sauce. Simply pour in the chicken broth while scraping the bottom with a wooden spatula to release the browned bits. This step is crucial, as it enhances the overall depth of flavor in the dish.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The freshness of your ingredients significantly impacts the taste of Lemon Thyme Chicken Skillet. Using fresh thyme instead of dried elevates the dish with its vibrant aroma and flavor. If fresh thyme is unavailable, you can substitute with half the amount of dried thyme, but be aware that the flavor will be less pronounced. Also, opt for organic lemons when possible; their zest adds a pop of citrusy brightness that enhances the entire dish.

For a balanced meal, consider pairing this skillet dish with seasonal roasted vegetables. Carrots, zucchini, or asparagus complement the lemony sauce beautifully and can be roasted in the oven during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking the chicken. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F until tender and slightly caramelized. This method not only speeds up meal prep but also enriches the plate with color and nutrition.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Lemon Thyme Chicken Skillet

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, juiced and zested
4 sprigs fresh thyme
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tablespoon butter

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.

Cooking Instructions

Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and thyme, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Add Lemon and Tomatoes

Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and then add the cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.

Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes to heat everything through. Finish with a tablespoon of butter for added richness.

Serve immediately, garnished with additional thyme and lemon slices if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and thyme for 30 minutes before cooking.

Variations and Customization

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, spinach, or green beans are excellent additions that can be tossed in with the tomatoes. You could also experiment with different fresh herbs. Basil or oregano can provide a completely new flavor profile while respecting the dish's freshness.

If you desire a heartier meal, serve the chicken over a bed of grains such as quinoa, rice, or couscous. These grains soak up the delightful lemon-thyme sauce, making every bite satisfying. You can also add a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Lemon Thyme Chicken Skillet can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To optimize freshness, let the chicken cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. When reheating, do it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as this can lead to uneven heating and a rubbery texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. When reheating from frozen, it’s best to do so in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even warming and maintain the chicken's juiciness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken instead?

Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time until the chicken is fully cooked.

→ What can I serve with Lemon Thyme Chicken Skillet?

It's great with rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then reheat before serving.

→ What herbs can I substitute for thyme?

You can use rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.