Juicy Pan-Roasted Chicken Breasts with Butter and Thyme

Discover the ultimate method for achieving golden, succulent chicken breasts with our pan-roasting technique. Infused with the richness of butter and the fragrance of fresh thyme, this recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken that’s crispy on the outside and perfectly juicy inside.

Pan roasting is a game-changer for chicken, offering versatility and restaurant-quality results. We love using this approach not only for chicken but also for dishes like lemon-infused chicken thighs and our famous pork chops. The process is simple: sear the chicken in an oven-safe skillet on the stovetop, then let the oven finish the magic.

For our skillet chicken breasts, we tweak this method slightly, keeping the cooking entirely on the stovetop by covering the pan for a steaming effect.

How to Perfectly Pan-Roast Chicken Breasts

When possible, choose boneless, skin-on chicken breasts for this recipe—they're ideal for getting that irresistible golden crust. If unavailable, bone-in breasts, skin-on thighs, or even skinless breasts will work. (Though we must confess, the crispy, golden skin is a highlight!)

Here’s the step-by-step:

Generously season the chicken with salt.
Heat a pan until it’s sizzling hot, then place the chicken skin-side down.
When the chicken turns golden brown, flip it over and add a generous amount of butter and a handful of fresh thyme.
As the butter melts, baste the chicken with it for extra flavor and moisture.

For a perfectly cooked finish, slide the pan into a preheated oven at 400°F. To keep the chicken moist, open the oven a couple of times to spoon the bubbling butter over the top.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these buttery, thyme-infused chicken breasts with creamy mashed potatoes, and don’t forget to drizzle the luscious pan juices on top. For a lighter option, mashed sweet potatoes or cauliflower mash make excellent companions.

Add a vibrant veggie side like roasted carrots or garlic asparagus, both of which roast beautifully at the same 400°F temperature. The result? A wholesome, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.