Chicken with Honey Thyme Glaze

Name: Chicken with Honey Thyme Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

I love making Chicken with Honey Thyme Glaze because it finds the perfect balance between sweetness and savory flavors. The honey caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a glaze that not only looks gorgeous but also enhances the dish's overall flavor. Each bite offers tender, juicy chicken infused with aromatic thyme, making it an instant hit at the dinner table. Whether it's a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish truly shines and showcases my love for simple yet elegant cooking.

Created by

Darcy Penrose

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:53:38.676Z

When I first tried cooking chicken with honey and thyme, I was amazed by how simple ingredients could transform into something spectacular. The glaze not only caramelizes but also locks in moisture, ensuring that the chicken stays juicy throughout the cooking process. I experimented with cooking times and, surprisingly, found that 35 minutes gave the best results in terms of flavor and texture.

To enhance the naturally sweet notes of the honey, I often add a splash of lemon juice. This small twist brightens the overall taste and cuts through the richness of the chicken beautifully. It's always a joy to share this recipe, as it never fails to impress those who taste it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory and sweet glaze that elevates your chicken to the next level
Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup required
Perfectly tender chicken that’s bursting with flavor

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing flavors deeply into the meat. The combination of honey, soy sauce, and thyme not only enhances the overall taste but also helps in tenderizing the chicken. Aim for at least 20 minutes of marinating time in the fridge. If you're in a hurry, even a 10-minute soak will impart some flavor, but if you can, let it marinate for up to 2 hours for maximum effect. Just remember, though, that extended marination can sometimes lead to a texture that's overly soft.

For those looking to experiment, consider adding minced garlic or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the marinade. These ingredients complement the dish well and add another layer of complexity to the flavor profile. Keeping an eye on the salt levels in the soy sauce is essential; taste your marinade before adding salt to ensure it’s balanced.

Perfect Baking Techniques

Baking at the right temperature is key to achieving a perfectly cooked chicken with a glossy glaze. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and while the chicken is baking, keep an eye on it. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. To check, simply insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast; it should read 165°F without any pinkness remaining.

To get that beautiful caramelized finish, consider broiling the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes. Watch it closely to avoid burning, as the sugars in honey can caramelize quickly. The chicken should develop golden edges and a glossy appearance that indicates a rich flavor from the glaze. If you need a lower-fat option, you can substitute olive oil with a little bit of chicken broth during baking, noting that this will alter the flavor slightly.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This dish pairs beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, like carrots or Brussels sprouts, which complement the sweet glaze. A simple side of fluffy rice or quinoa can also soak up any excess glaze, making for a complete meal. For a salad option, a light arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette would provide a refreshing contrast.

If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating can be done in a microwave, but for optimal texture, use an oven set to 325°F (163°C). Heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes, to keep the chicken juicy while reintroducing the glaze. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken for up to three months; just ensure it's tightly wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful meal:

Ingredients for Chicken with Honey Thyme Glaze

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

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for even cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make this delicious dish:

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, thyme, soy sauce, olive oil, and lemon juice if using. Season with salt and pepper.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.

Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the marinated chicken to a baking dish and pour the remaining marinade over the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, drizzled with the honey-thyme glaze from the baking dish.

Enjoy your delectable meal with a side of vegetables or rice for a complete dish!

Pro Tips

To enhance the glaze, try adding crushed garlic or a bit of Dijon mustard for an extra kick.

Ingredient Insights

Honey provides not only sweetness but also moisture. It caramelizes in the oven, creating that stunning glossy finish on the chicken. Opt for a lighter honey if you prefer a milder taste or a darker honey for a more robust flavor. Thyme is a fantastic herb that complements the sweetness of the honey while bringing earthiness to the dish. If you don't have fresh thyme, feel free to substitute it with dried thyme, adjusting the quantity to about one teaspoon since it's more concentrated.

Soy sauce is the key to adding umami richness and depth. To make this dish gluten-free, choose tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce. Additionally, for a hint of citrus, freshly zested lemon can elevate the flavors further, delivering a fresh burst against the glaze's sweetness.

Variations on the Recipe

To keep things interesting, try varying the glaze by incorporating different herbs and spices. Rosemary or oregano could be excellent replacements for thyme, giving the dish a different character. For a touch of heat, adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the marinade can bring a delightful kick that balances the sweetness. For those who enjoy a smoky element, a few drops of liquid smoke will transform the dish completely.

If you're aiming for a complete meal in one go, toss diced potatoes or other sturdy vegetables into the baking dish alongside the chicken. As the chicken bakes, the vegetables will soak in the flavors from the glaze, creating a delicious one-pan dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.