Prepare to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds! This Creamy Lemon Thyme Chicken is not just another recipe – it's a flavor explosion that combines the bright, zesty notes of fresh lemon with the aromatic warmth of thyme, all nestled in a luxuriously rich cream sauce. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a dish so delicious, it rivals the most expensive restaurant entrees, without the hefty price tag or complicated techniques.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tsp fresh thyme
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Zest the lemon and then juice it, ensuring you have about 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Rinse the chicken thighs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin-side down. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken thighs and cook for an additional 5 minutes on the other side.
- Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Add the lemon juice and lemon zest to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Sprinkle the fresh thyme over the chicken and cream mixture.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce does not stick to the bottom of the pan and to incorporate the flavors.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve the creamy lemon thyme chicken hot, garnished with additional thyme leaves if desired, alongside your choice of sides such as rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Skin Crispiness is Key: Pat your chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning. This ensures a golden, crispy skin that provides amazing texture and flavor.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy meat.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: If possible, use fresh thyme instead of dried. The flavor is more vibrant and aromatic.
- Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If it's too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the chicken and have ingredients ready earlier in the day, making dinner prep a breeze when you're short on time.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 485kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 44g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 145mg
