Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet Recipe
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and healthy one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a rich, tangy lemon garlic butter sauce alongside crisp-tender green beans. It’s a bright, fresh dish that’s packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s low-carb and gluten-free, making it a great option for a variety of dietary needs.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb or 450g)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
For the Green Beans and Sauce:
1 lb (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed
3 tablespoons (45g) unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup (60ml) chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)
Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
Zest of 1 lemon
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment
Large skillet (preferably oven-safe)
Tongs
Measuring spoons
Zester or grater
Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Green Beans
Sauté the Green Beans: In the same skillet, add the trimmed green beans. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and develop a slight char. Remove the green beans from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Melt the Butter: Reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Deglaze the Pan: Pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth (or white wine) and the juice of 1 lemon. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to incorporate them into the sauce.
Add Lemon Zest and Seasoning: Stir in the lemon zest, 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return Chicken and Green Beans: Add the seared chicken breasts and sautéed green beans back to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and green beans.
Simmer: Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the green beans to absorb the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve: Serve hot, straight from the skillet. Pair with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Notes
Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are very thick, consider slicing them horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This ensures even cooking and reduces cooking time.
Green Bean Variations: You can substitute green beans with other vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini.
Sauce Variations:
Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce.
Stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.
Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
Storage and Reheating:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for extra brightness.
Time and Temperature Breakdown
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Stovetop Temperature: Medium-high heat for searing, medium heat for simmering
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The bright, tangy flavors of lemon and garlic paired with tender chicken and crisp green beans make it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy
