Looking for a simple, healthy dinner that still brings big flavour? This lemon thyme chicken checks all the boxes — light, fresh, and full of bright citrus and herb notes. The best part? A splash of beer in the marinade adds depth and character to an already easy weeknight winner. You can bake it in the oven or toss it on the grill, and either way, it pairs perfectly with a chilled glass of Bentstick Brewing’s Norwegian-style farmhouse ale: Uff-da.

The Brewery

Bentstick is a craft brewery based in Edmonton, Alberta. Known for creative brews with bold character, Bentstick operates on a nano-brewing scale, focusing on quality over quantity. Their beers are unfiltered, naturally carbonated, and brewed with a healthy dose of experimentation — and Uff-da is no exception. This beer is a standout for those who love farmhouse styles with a bit of rustic charm.

The Beer

Uff-da is a farmhouse-style ale brewed with a Norwegian yeast strain called kveik, which ferments at higher temperatures and brings out unique fruity esters and spicy character. It’s an approachable ale with personality — a great companion to citrus and herbs in this lemon thyme chicken dish.

Tasting Notes (ASTMO)

• Appearance: Pale golden and slightly hazy with a foamy white head that lingers.
• Smell: Bright citrus peel, a hint of honey, and subtle peppery yeast.
• Taste: Light-bodied with notes of lemon zest, earthy herbs, and a touch of stone fruit. Finishes crisp with a mild bitterness.
• Mouthfeel: Effervescent and dry with a clean finish.
• Overall: Uff-da is refreshing and layered — exactly the kind of beer you want alongside a lemony, herb-forward chicken dish. It enhances the flavour without overpowering.

The Recipe

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Lemon Thyme Chicken with Beer

Juicy, lean chicken breasts marinated in beer and olive oil, seasoned simply, and finished with fresh lemon and thyme — this dish is light, easy, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup light farmhouse ale or simple lager
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon plus zest
• 2 –3 sprigs fresh thyme

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the half of the lemon juice, the zest, olive oil, beer, half of the thyme, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 1 hour if you have the time).
2. Remove chicken from marinade and place on a preheated grill.
3. Grill for 7-8 minutes per side, until internal temp reaches 74°C (165°F)
4. Remove from heat, drizzle with remaining fresh lemon juice, and sprinkle thyme on top. Serve hot.

Recipe Notes

Suggested Pairings

Serve with a side of roasted potatoes and a green salad — or couscous and steamed broccoli. And of course, pour yourself a cold Uff-da for the perfect pairing.