Introduction
Busy weeknights call for quick, easy, and delicious meals that don’t require hours in the kitchen. One-pan dishes are a lifesaver, and this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is the perfect example. Packed with flavor, protein, and fresh vegetables, this dish delivers a mouthwatering combination of zesty lemon, rich garlic butter, and tender chicken with crisp green beans.
This dish is not only quick and easy but also healthy and keto-friendly. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or something hearty, this recipe offers a balanced and satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes. Plus, you only need one pan, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!
In this article, we’ll go through everything you need to know to make this dish, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for the best flavor, variations, and serving suggestions.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For the Green Beans:
- 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps in achieving a beautiful golden-brown sear.
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Cover with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Green Beans
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon butter and 2 cloves of minced garlic.
- Sauté for 30 seconds, then add the green beans.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender yet slightly crisp.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
- Stir in minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, then add 1 tablespoon butter to create a smooth, silky sauce.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the lemon garlic butter sauce over the top.
- Let the chicken simmer for another 2 minutes so it absorbs all the flavors.
- Add the green beans back to the skillet, mixing everything together.
Step 6: Final Touches and Serving
- Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Tips for the Best Flavor
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest: This gives the dish a vibrant and fresh citrusy flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If your skillet is small, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing: This helps retain its juices, making it extra tender and flavorful.
- Add more garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add extra minced garlic for an intense aroma and taste.
- Adjust spice levels: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Variations & Substitutions
- Swap green beans for other veggies: Try asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini instead.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts: They are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked.
- Make it dairy-free: Use only olive oil instead of butter.
- Add mushrooms or cherry tomatoes: These will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Make it a full meal: Serve over pasta, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a more filling meal.
Serving & Storage
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot, straight from the skillet, with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or warm crusty bread.
- Add a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for extra nutrients.
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.
- Freezing is not recommended, as the lemon sauce may separate when thawed.
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a must-try dish for anyone who loves bold flavors, simple cooking, and healthy eating. The tangy lemon, aromatic garlic, and buttery sauce make this dish irresistibly delicious, while the one-pan method keeps it convenient for busy nights.
With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Try it out and customize it to your liking—whether you add extra veggies, swap proteins, or adjust the spice levels, the possibilities are endless!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your family and friends, and let us know how it turned out for you! Happy cooking! 🍋🍗
