Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

To make this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano on both sides. This simple seasoning helps bring out the flavors of the chicken without overpowering the lemon garlic butter sauce.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Green Beans

In the same skillet, add the green beans and sauté them for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to get a little color and soften slightly. If needed, add a splash of water to help steam them.

4. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Now, it’s time to bring all the delicious flavors together. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Next, add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir well to combine, making sure all the ingredients are blended together. The butter will create a rich, glossy sauce, and the lemon juice will add a fresh, tangy kick.

5. Combine the Chicken and Green Beans

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them over the green beans. Spoon some of the lemon garlic butter sauce over the chicken to coat it. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to reheat.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is heated through and the green beans are tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve the chicken and green beans immediately, spooning the extra sauce over the top for extra flavor.

Tips for Success

• Chicken Thighs Option: If you prefer chicken thighs over breasts, you can easily swap them in. Chicken thighs are more forgiving and can add even more juiciness to the dish.
• Add More Veggies: If you want to make the meal even heartier, you can add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skillet. Just sauté them alongside the green beans.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the sauce its signature fragrance and flavor. Avoid using pre-minced garlic for the best results.
• Adjust the Lemon Flavor: If you like your dish with a more pronounced lemon flavor, feel free to add extra lemon juice or zest. You can also add a teaspoon of lemon zest into the sauce for an extra burst.
• Serve with Sides: This dish is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad to complete the meal.

Health Benefits of Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

This one-pan dish is not only delicious, but it also offers several health benefits:

• High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles.
• Full of Vitamins: Green beans are packed with vitamins like Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate, making them a nutritious addition to your meal.
• Antioxidants from Garlic and Lemon: Both garlic and lemon are known for their antioxidant properties, helping to boost the immune system and promote overall health.

Conclusion: A Flavorful, Simple Meal You’ll Make Again and Again

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is the epitome of a simple yet flavorful meal. With tender chicken, perfectly sautéed green beans, and a rich, tangy lemon garlic butter sauce, it’s a dish that checks all the boxes—delicious, healthy, and easy to prepare. Plus, with minimal cleanup and a short cooking time, this is a meal that you’ll want to make time and time again.

Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or preparing it for a special occasion, this recipe will become a household favorite. So grab your skillet, fire up the stove, and enjoy this bright, zesty meal that’s sure to satisfy every craving!