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; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Collection

I absolutely love making Chicken with Honey Thyme Glaze for a quick weeknight dinner. The blend of sweet honey and fragrant thyme creates a beautiful glaze that not only enhances the chicken but also fills my kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Cooking the chicken in this glaze allows it to absorb all those wonderful flavors, resulting in a dish that feels festive without requiring a lot of effort. It’s an experience I look forward to, especially paired with some roasted vegetables on the side.

Created by

Zinnia Fairweather

Last updated on 2026-01-07T15:05:35.846Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to prepare and the incredible flavors it delivered. I experimented with different herbs, but thyme paired perfectly with honey, creating a wonderful balance that I now crave regularly. The key is to allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, as this will enhance the flavor even more.

Once, I made this dish for some friends, and they couldn’t believe how simple it was! I served it with a side of garlic mashed potatoes, which paired beautifully. If you really want to elevate this dish, consider adding some lemon zest to the glaze for a fresh twist that complements the sweetness of the honey.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfect balance of sweet honey and fragrant thyme
Easy preparation for busy weeknights
Impressive presentation for entertaining guests

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to the success of Chicken with Honey Thyme Glaze lies in the quality of the ingredients. Opt for fresh thyme rather than dried, as it offers a brighter flavor that complements the sweetness of honey beautifully. If you're unable to find fresh thyme, feel free to use dried thyme in a reduced quantity—about one teaspoon for this recipe—to avoid overpowering the dish. The choice of chicken is also crucial; boneless, skinless breasts work well because they cook evenly and remain juicy when submerged in the luscious glaze.

Another ingredient that plays a vital role is honey. Choose a high-quality, pure honey for a deeper flavor profile. While clover honey is commonly available, consider trying local varieties like wildflower or orange blossom for a unique twist. The garlic adds a robust punch to the marinade, enhancing the overall flavor. To prevent the garlic from burning during cooking, ensure it's minced finely and incorporated well into the glaze.

Cooking Techniques

When marinating the chicken, aim for a minimum of 15 minutes but feel free to extend this to 1-2 hours for more intense flavor. This allows the chicken breasts to absorb the honey and thyme, which transforms into the delicious glaze as they roast. If time is short, marinating for just 15 minutes still provides a tasty result, but I highly recommend marinating longer if possible to deepen the flavor.

Baking at 375°F (190°C) is ideal for even cooking while developing a golden, glossy finish. To check for doneness, I suggest using an instant-read thermometer—your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts, baking can sometimes take up to 40 minutes. If the edges begin to brown too much, you can cover the dish with foil to prevent overcooking while the inside finishes cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Please ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Glaze

In a bowl, combine honey, thyme, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the marinated chicken to a baking dish and pour any leftover marinade on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Chicken with Honey Thyme Glaze!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the glaze. It will add a nice tang that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken with Honey Thyme Glaze pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a healthy option, consider serving it alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers, which enhance the sweetness of the glaze. A light grain salad, such as quinoa or couscous, can also complement the dish beautifully, offering a satisfying textural contrast.

If you're looking to elevate the dish for guests, a garnish of fresh thyme or a sprinkle of feta cheese can add a lovely touch. Don't forget a light drizzle of balsamic reduction for an extra layer of flavor that balances the sweetness!

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're preparing for a busy week, this dish makes a great candidate for meal prep. After marinating the chicken, you can freeze it in the marinade for up to three months. When you're ready to cook, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for an easy weeknight dinner. Remember to remove any excess marinade before cooking to avoid excess liquid in the baking dish.

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It reheats well in the oven or microwave without losing its flavor or texture, making it perfect for quick lunches. For a fresh spin on leftovers, chop the chicken and toss it with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette for a delightful salad.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but cooking time will need to be increased to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

→ What can I substitute for thyme?

Rosemary or oregano can be great alternatives if you don't have thyme on hand.

→ Can this recipe be grilled?

Absolutely! Just marinate and grill the chicken, turning occasionally until cooked through.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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