Chicken Breast with Thyme and Butter

Name: Chicken Breast with Thyme and Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

A succulent chicken breast seasoned with fresh thyme and bathed in rich butter for a simple yet elegant dish.

Created by

Kate Phillips

Last updated on 2025-12-25T18:10:01.265Z

This chicken breast with thyme and butter is a delightful dish that brings together the aromatic flavor of thyme and the richness of butter. It's perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Simple ingredients that create a gourmet experience
Juicy and tender chicken with a fragrant herb infusion
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

The Perfect Weeknight Dinner

When you're short on time but still want a delicious meal, this Chicken Breast with Thyme and Butter recipe is the perfect solution. With a cooking time of under 30 minutes, you can enjoy a gourmet experience right in your own kitchen. The combination of fresh thyme and rich butter elevates the simple chicken breast into a dish worthy of a special occasion, yet it's easy enough for a busy weeknight.

Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it also requires minimal cleanup. Using just one skillet, you can cook your chicken to perfection without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. This streamlined approach makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy home-cooked meals without the fuss.

Flavorful Herb Infusion

Fresh herbs can transform a basic dish into something extraordinary. In this recipe, the addition of thyme not only enhances the flavor of the chicken but also adds a lovely aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks. Thyme is known for its earthy, slightly minty flavor, which pairs beautifully with the richness of butter, creating a harmonious balance that will tantalize your taste buds.

You can also experiment with other herbs if you like. Rosemary or sage would work wonderfully in place of thyme, allowing you to customize the dish to your preference. Feel free to mix and match to create your unique twist on this classic recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chicken Breast with Thyme and Butter alongside a fresh green salad for a light and healthy meal. The crispness of the salad will complement the tender chicken, making for an enjoyable dining experience. Alternatively, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes to create a heartier plate that’s perfect for a satisfying dinner.

If you're looking to add a touch of elegance, consider drizzling a balsamic reduction over the chicken just before serving. This simple addition can elevate your dish, providing a beautiful presentation while adding a hint of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper before cooking.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Add Thyme and Remaining Butter

In the last minute of cooking, add the remaining butter and chopped thyme to the skillet, basting the chicken with the melted butter.

Serve

Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then serve with your choice of sides.

Enjoy your flavorful chicken breast with thyme and butter!

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

To ensure your chicken breasts are juicy and flavorful, it's essential to avoid overcooking. Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve the perfect internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This simple tool will help you take the guesswork out of cooking, allowing you to enjoy tender, succulent chicken every time.

Another tip for enhancing flavor is to let the chicken breasts rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and moist chicken. Just a few minutes of resting can make a significant difference in the final dish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. Use the leftover chicken in salads, sandwiches, or wraps for a quick and easy lunch the next day.

To reheat, simply place the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Cover the skillet to trap the steam, which will help warm the chicken without drying it out. In just a few minutes, you'll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried thyme, but reduce the amount to 1 tablespoon as it is more concentrated.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad complement the chicken beautifully.

→ Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken for a few hours will enhance the flavor.

→ How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).