Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a quick, flavorful one-pan meal perfect for weeknights. The tender chicken, crisp green beans, and zesty lemon-garlic butter sauce create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Sauce and Beans:
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • ¼ cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges and chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the green beans to the skillet. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook the green beans for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Return the chicken to the skillet with the green beans. Spoon some of the lemon garlic butter sauce over the chicken.
2. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the chicken to reheat and soak up the flavors.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Tips

1. Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest make a big difference in the brightness of the dish.
2. Adjust Green Bean Texture: Cook the green beans to your preferred level of doneness—tender-crisp or softer.
3. Swap Proteins: You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs, shrimp, or even salmon fillets for variation.

Variations

1. Add Starch: Serve over rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
2. Cheesy Option: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the finished dish for extra flavor.
3. Vegetable Swap: Replace green beans with asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli for a different take

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, thaw them first and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.

4. What’s the best way to pound chicken evenly?
Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a rolling pin or meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is the ultimate one-pan dinner that combines bold flavors with minimal effort. With juicy chicken, zesty lemon, and crisp green beans, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress family and guests alike. Give it a try for a quick and satisfying meal