Name: Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 4 chicken breasts; 1 tsp garlic; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp pepper; 1 tbsp butter; 1 tsp all-purpose flour; 1½ cups milk; ½ tsp lemon; ½ tsp dried thyme

Transform your dinner into a gourmet experience with this delightful creamy lemon thyme chicken recipe. The rich, velvety sauce paired with perfectly seared chicken breasts makes an irresistible combination that will satisfy your taste buds.

Photos of Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken Recipe

One ingredient you might not commonly have at home is dried thyme. This herb adds an earthy and slightly minty flavor to the dish, complementing the lemon and garlic. Make sure to grab it at the supermarket if it's not already in your pantry.

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken

Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken, it adds a rich flavor and helps in achieving a golden-brown crust.

Chicken breasts: The main protein of this dish, providing a lean and tender meat option.

Garlic: Adds aromatic and pungent flavors that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Lemon juice: Provides acidity and freshness to balance the creamy sauce.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.

Pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the dish.

Butter: Contributes to the richness and smoothness of the sauce.

All-purpose flour: Helps in thickening the sauce to the right consistency.

Milk: Forms the base of the creamy sauce, giving it a luscious texture.

Lemon zest: Adds a concentrated citrus flavor that brightens up the sauce.

Dried thyme: Imparts a subtle, aromatic flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.

One reader, Angelia Khan says:

This creamy lemon thyme chicken recipe is a winner! The chicken is tender and flavorful, and the sauce is perfectly balanced with a hint of lemon and thyme. It’s easy to make and feels like a gourmet meal. Highly recommend for a delightful dinner!

Angelia Khan

Techniques Required for Making Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken

How to rub chicken breasts: Rub the chicken breasts with garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to infuse them with flavor. How to heat olive oil: Heat olive oil in a skillet until it is hot enough to cook the chicken. How to cook chicken breasts: Cook the chicken breasts in the skillet for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and no longer pink inside. How to make a roux: Heat butter in the same pan and add flour, stirring for 1 minute to create a roux. How to whisk in milk: Slowly whisk in the milk into the roux until all the milk is incorporated and the mixture is smooth. How to simmer sauce: Simmer the sauce while stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly. How to add chicken back to the pan: Add the cooked chicken breasts back to the pan and simmer for an additional 2 minutes to reheat and coat with sauce.

How To Make Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken

Serve tender chicken breasts with creamy lemon and thyme sauce for dinner with this easy chicken recipe. It’s quick to prep, filling, but light and healthy.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspolive oil
4chicken breasts,boneless, skinless
1tspgarlic,minced
1tbsplemon juice
1tspsalt,divided
½tsppepper
1tbspbutter
1tspall-purpose flour
1½cupsmilk
½tsplemon,zest
½tspdried thyme,or 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

Rub the chicken breasts with garlic, lemon juice, ½ teaspoon of salt and pepper and set aside for 15 to 20 minutes.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet and add chicken breasts. Cook the breasts for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, until cooked through and not pink from inside.
Once cooked, take the chicken breasts out of the pan and set them aside on a plate. Cover the plate with foil to keep the breasts warm.
In the same pan, heat butter and add the flour. Stir the flour for 1 minute and slowly start whisking in the milk until all the milk is incorporated and there are no lumps.
Simmer the sauce while stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the remaining salt, lemon zest, and thyme and mix.
Add the chicken back to the pan and simmer for 2 more minutes. Serve immediately. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 416.05kcal
Fat: 25.36g
Saturated Fat: 8.64g
Trans Fat: 0.30g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.60g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.06g
Carbohydrates: 5.75g
Fiber: 0.20g
Sugar: 4.75g
Protein: 39.37g
Cholesterol: 128.14mg
Sodium: 647.94mg
Calcium: 129.43mg
Potassium: 518.60mg
Iron: 1.58mg
Vitamin A: 108.47µg
Vitamin C: 2.05mg

Technique Tip for Making Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken

To ensure the chicken breasts cook evenly and stay juicy, pound them to an even thickness before marinating. This helps them cook at the same rate and prevents overcooking.

Time-Saving Tips for This Creamy Chicken Recipe

Marinate in advance: Prepare the chicken breasts with garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper the night before and refrigerate. This saves time and enhances flavor.

Use pre-minced garlic: Opt for pre-minced garlic to cut down on prep time.

Measure ingredients beforehand: Have all your ingredients measured and ready before you start cooking to streamline the process.

One-pan method: Cook the chicken and make the sauce in the same pan to save on cleanup time.

Simmer while multitasking: Let the sauce simmer while you prepare side dishes or set the table.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
chicken breasts - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/4 tsp of garlic powder for each clove of garlic to maintain the garlic flavor.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and won't alter the color of the dish.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine has a similar fat content and can be used in the same quantity.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can thicken sauces similarly; use half the amount of cornstarch as you would flour.
milk - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream will make the dish richer and creamier; you may need to dilute it with a bit of water.
lemon - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest provides a strong lemon flavor without the acidity.
dried thyme - Substitute with fresh thyme: Fresh thyme has a more vibrant flavor; use three times the amount of fresh thyme as dried.

Best Way to Present Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken breasts sliced into elegant medallions, ensuring each piece is uniform in size. This not only looks refined but also allows for better portion control.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a sprig of fresh thyme and a thin slice of lemon twisted into a spiral. This adds a pop of color and hints at the flavors within the dish.
Create a sauce pool: Pour a small pool of the creamy lemon thyme sauce on the plate before placing the chicken medallions on top. This ensures each bite is accompanied by the rich, flavorful sauce.
Add texture: Sprinkle a few toasted almond slivers or pine nuts around the plate for added crunch and a touch of elegance.
Use a contrasting plate: Serve the dish on a dark-colored plate to make the creamy sauce and golden-brown chicken stand out visually.
Incorporate microgreens: Add a small handful of microgreens or baby arugula on the side for a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich, creamy elements of the dish.
Drizzle with olive oil: Finish with a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the chicken and sauce for added sheen and a touch of luxury.
Serve with a side: Pair the dish with a small portion of roasted vegetables or a creamy mashed potato quenelle to complement the flavors and add variety to the plate.

Essential Tools for Making Lemon Thyme Chicken

Large skillet: Used for cooking the chicken breasts evenly on both sides.
Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken breasts without piercing them.
Plate: To set aside the cooked chicken breasts and keep them warm.
Aluminum foil: Used to cover the plate and keep the chicken warm.
Whisk: Essential for incorporating the flour into the butter and for whisking in the milk to create a smooth sauce.
Measuring spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients like olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, butter, flour, and thyme.
Measuring cups: For measuring the milk accurately.
Knife: To mince the garlic if using fresh cloves.
Cutting board: A safe surface for preparing the garlic and any other ingredients.
Spatula: Useful for stirring the sauce and ensuring it doesn't stick to the pan.
Small bowl: To mix the garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for rubbing onto the chicken.
Zester: For zesting the lemon to add to the sauce.

How To Store and Freeze Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken

Let the creamy lemon thyme chicken cool down to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. This will prevent the formation of condensation, which can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage.
Store the leftover chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep it in a sealed container to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods.
If you want to freeze the creamy lemon thyme chicken for later consumption, follow these steps:
1. Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
2. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. If using a bag, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
3. Label the container or bag with the date of freezing and the contents.
4. Freeze the creamy lemon thyme chicken for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the frozen chicken, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you're reheating the chicken in a skillet, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help maintain its moisture and prevent it from drying out.
When reheating the creamy lemon thyme sauce, you may need to add a little extra milk or cream to restore its creamy consistency, as it may have separated during storage or freezing.

How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken

Reheat in the oven: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover creamy lemon thyme chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling. This method helps to preserve the moisture and flavor of the dish, ensuring that the chicken remains tender and the sauce stays creamy.
Reheat on the stovetop: transfer the leftover creamy lemon thyme chicken to a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out. Heat until the chicken is warmed through and the sauce is hot. This method allows you to easily control the consistency of the sauce and quickly reheat the dish.
Reheat in the microwave: place the leftover creamy lemon thyme chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is hot. Stir the dish halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating. While this method is quick and convenient, be careful not to overheat the dish, as it may cause the chicken to become dry and the sauce to separate.
Reheat sous vide: if you have a sous vide machine, you can reheat the leftover creamy lemon thyme chicken using this precise temperature control method. Place the chicken and sauce in a vacuum-sealed bag or a resealable plastic bag with the air removed. Set your sous vide machine to 140°F (60°C) and submerge the bag in the water bath. Reheat for 30-45 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through and the sauce is hot. This method ensures that the chicken remains moist and tender while the sauce maintains its creamy consistency.

Random Fact About Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken

A random fact about this recipe is that lemon juice not only adds a refreshing citrus flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken breasts by breaking down proteins, making them juicier and more flavorful.

Is This Creamy Chicken Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This creamy lemon thyme chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic, lemon, and milk are affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The use of simple pantry staples like butter and flour further enhances its budget-friendly nature. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20 USD.

Is This Creamy Chicken Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The creamy lemon thyme chicken recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes:

Lean protein from the chicken breasts
Garlic, which has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
Lemon juice and zest, providing vitamin C and bright flavor
Thyme, an herb with potential antibacterial and antioxidant benefits

However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components:

Butter and olive oil, which are high in saturated and monofat, respectively
All-purpose flour, a refined carbohydrate
Whole milk, which adds saturated fat and calories

To make this recipe healthier, a few simple tweaks could be made:

Swap the all-purpose flour for a whole grain variety or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
Use low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative to reduce the saturated fat content
Reduce the amount of butter used, or replace it with a healthier oil like avocado oil
Increase the amount of garlic, lemon, and thyme for more flavor without adding calories
Serve the chicken with a side of colorful, nutrient-dense vegetables like roasted broccoli or a mixed greens salad

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal that better aligns with your health goals.

Editor's Thoughts on Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken

This creamy lemon thyme chicken recipe is a delightful balance of flavors. The lemon juice and zest add a refreshing tang, while the thyme provides an aromatic depth. The creamy sauce, thickened with a touch of flour, complements the tender chicken perfectly. The use of garlic and butter enhances the overall richness. It's a straightforward yet elegant dish that can easily impress at a dinner party or serve as a comforting weeknight meal. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.

Enhance Your Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Imagine the crispy exterior and fluffy interior of potatoes, roasted to perfection with a hint of garlic and a generous sprinkle of parmesan. These golden delights will complement the creamy richness of the chicken and add a satisfying crunch to your meal.

Lemon Asparagus Risotto: Envision a creamy risotto infused with the bright flavors of lemon and the tender bite of asparagus. This luxurious side dish will mirror the citrus notes in the chicken while providing a velvety texture that harmonizes beautifully with the main course.

Herb-Infused Quinoa Salad: Picture a vibrant quinoa salad bursting with fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. This light and refreshing side dish will offer a delightful contrast to the creamy chicken, adding a pop of color and a burst of flavor to your plate.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Visualize tender carrots glazed with a sweet and sticky honey sauce, sprinkled with a touch of thyme. These caramelized beauties will enhance the savory notes of the chicken and provide a delightful sweetness that balances the dish perfectly.

Spinach and Strawberry Salad: Imagine a refreshing salad with crisp spinach leaves, juicy strawberries, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This vibrant side dish will add a burst of color and a delightful sweetness that complements the creamy chicken beautifully.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken

Garlic Herb Chicken: Dive into the aromatic world of garlic and herbs with this delightful chicken dish. Perfectly seared chicken breasts are infused with a blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Experience the zesty flavors of lemon and garlic in this quick and easy shrimp recipe. Succulent shrimp are sautéed in a butter and garlic sauce, then finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Perfect over a bed of pasta or with a side of crusty bread.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken: Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of Tuscan cuisine with this delectable chicken dish. Chicken breasts are cooked in a luscious cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a hint of garlic. Serve over pasta or with mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Lemon Dill Salmon: Savor the fresh and vibrant flavors of lemon and dill in this healthy salmon recipe. Salmon fillets are baked to perfection with a zesty lemon and dill marinade. Pair with steamed vegetables or a quinoa salad for a nutritious dinner.

Herb Crusted Pork Chops: Enjoy the savory goodness of herb-crusted pork chops with this easy-to-make recipe. Pork chops are coated in a mixture of fresh herbs, garlic, and breadcrumbs, then baked to golden perfection. Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a hearty meal.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve With Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start your meal. These bite-sized treats are filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, cream cheese, and herbs. The mushrooms are baked until golden and tender, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. The earthiness of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the creamy filling, making them an irresistible appetizer.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never fails to impress. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic are combined with a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. This mixture is then spooned onto toasted baguette slices, creating a crunchy, flavorful bite. The contrast between the crisp bread and the juicy topping makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Desserts:

Lemon Tart: For a delightful finish to your meal, consider creating a Lemon Tart. This dessert features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a luscious, tangy lemon curd. The balance of sweet and tart flavors will leave your taste buds dancing. Top it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh thyme to tie in the flavors from your main course. The bright citrus notes and creamy texture make it a perfect complement to the creamy lemon thyme chicken.

Thyme-Infused Panna Cotta: Another sophisticated option is a Thyme-Infused Panna Cotta. This Italian classic is given a unique twist with the subtle addition of thyme. The creamy, silky texture of the panna cotta pairs beautifully with the herbaceous notes of thyme, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Serve it with a drizzle of lemon syrup and a garnish of candied lemon zest for an elegant and refreshing dessert that echoes the flavors of your main course.

Why trust this Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken Recipe:

This recipe combines the tangy freshness of lemon juice with the earthy aroma of dried thyme, creating a delightful balance of flavors. The chicken breasts are cooked to perfection, ensuring they remain juicy and tender. The creamy sauce, made with milk and a touch of butter, adds a rich, velvety texture that complements the dish beautifully. With simple, wholesome ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is both reliable and delicious, making it a trusted choice for any home cook.

Share your thoughts on the Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a bit more flour when making the roux or let the sauce simmer a bit longer to reduce it further.

Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried thyme?

Absolutely! Fresh thyme can be used instead of dried thyme. Just remember that fresh herbs are generally more potent, so you might want to use about a teaspoon of fresh thyme.

Can I substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative?

Yes, you can use non-dairy milk like almond milk or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that it might slightly change the flavor and consistency of the sauce.

What can I serve with this creamy lemon thyme chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans also make a great accompaniment.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also cut into the thickest part of the breast to check if the juices run clear and there’s no pink meat inside.