Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet Recipe

Introduction

Looking for a recipe that’s quick, delicious, and doesn’t leave a mountain of dishes? This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is the answer! With perfectly seasoned chicken breasts, tender green beans, and a buttery, garlicky sauce with a citrusy kick, it’s a dish that will make its way into your regular rotation. Bonus? It’s a one-pan wonder that’s ready in under 30 minutes!

Why This Recipe Ranks High

  • One-Skillet Convenience: Fewer dishes mean more time to enjoy your meal.
  • Rich Flavors: The garlic butter sauce with fresh lemon juice is a crowd-pleaser.
  • Healthy and Wholesome: Protein-packed chicken and nutrient-rich green beans.
  • Quick Cooking: Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 fresh lemon
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Green Beans:

  • 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
  2. Season both sides with oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

2️⃣ Sear the Chicken:

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
  3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3️⃣ Sauté the Garlic:

  1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant.

4️⃣ Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce:

  1. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  2. Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.

5️⃣ Cook the Green Beans:

  1. Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet. Toss them in the lemon garlic sauce.
  2. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes until the beans are tender but still crisp.

6️⃣ Combine Everything:

  1. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them among the green beans.
  2. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to coat it fully.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair this dish with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or quinoa for a complete meal.
  • For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or enjoy it as-is.

Chef’s Tips

  1. Marinate for Extra Flavor: For an even juicier chicken, marinate it in olive oil, lemon juice, and spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
  2. Add Extra Veggies: Broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini make great additions to this dish.
  3. Make It Creamy: Add 1/4 cup heavy cream to the sauce for a rich, creamy variation.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~320
  • Protein: ~40g
  • Carbohydrates: ~8g
  • Fat: ~14g
  • Fiber: ~3g

Focus Keywords:

  • Lemon garlic butter chicken
  • One-skillet chicken recipe
  • Garlic butter chicken with green beans
  • Easy chicken dinner ideas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

With its vibrant flavors and effortless preparation, this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight dinner. The juicy chicken, paired with the tangy garlic butter sauce, is so irresistible that you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds.

Leave a Comment