When it comes to quick and delicious weeknight dinners, Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a winner. This flavorful and nutritious dish brings together tender chicken breasts and crisp green beans in a luscious lemony garlic butter sauce.

With its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma, this skillet meal is sure to become a favorite among both home cooks and families. In this article, we’ll explore the recipe and learn how to make this delightful dish step-by-step.

What is Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet?

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a one-pan meal that combines boneless chicken breasts with fresh green beans in a tangy buttery sauce.

The dish is cooked in a skillet, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a delightful and satisfying meal. This dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to add your twist with various herbs and spices.

Health Benefits of the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet not only satisfy your taste buds but also provides several health benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while green beans are packed with essential nutrients such as vitamins A and C, iron, and fiber. The lemon and garlic in the sauce offer immune-boosting properties and add a refreshing twist to the dish.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

Recipe by arwynnCourse: Recipes

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

795

kcal

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 pound fresh green beans, washed and trimmed
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 lemon (juice and zest)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preparing the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Sautéing the Green Beans:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
Toss in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the green beans to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
Sauté the green beans for 5-6 minutes until they are tender-crisp and vibrant green.
Making the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium-low, and return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet.
Pour in the lemon juice and zest, coating the chicken and green beans.
Allow the flavors to meld together for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Combining and Cooking:
Ensure the chicken and green beans are well-coated in the lemon garlic butter sauce.
Continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors fully.

Notes

If you’re wanting a quick dinner, don’t use bone-in and skin on chicken.

Variations to Try

To add your personal touch to this recipe, consider experimenting with different herbs and spices. You can try incorporating rosemary, basil, or even chili flakes for some extra heat. Additionally, you can add cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers to the skillet for added color and flavor.

Tips for Cooking Perfectly

Properly Season the Chicken: Be generous with seasoning the chicken breasts to ensure a flavorful outcome.

Maintain the Right Temperature: Keep the heat at medium-high when cooking the chicken and adjust it to medium-low when making the sauce to avoid burning the garlic.
Trimming the Green Beans: Make sure to trim the ends of the green beans before cooking for a more pleasant texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
- While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble the skillet before serving.
Can I substitute the green beans with other vegetables?
- Absolutely! Asparagus, broccoli, or snap peas work well as alternatives.
Is Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet suitable for a keto diet?
- Yes, it is, as it’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a simple yet delightful dish that brings together the goodness of chicken, green beans, and zesty flavors in one pan. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious and wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So, next time you crave a quick and tasty dinner option, give this recipe a try!