When you think about comfort food, what comes to mind? For me, it’s all about the sizzle of chicken dancing in a buttery, lemony sauce, with fresh green beans just waiting to soak up all that deliciousness. Picture this: a Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also makes you feel like a culinary genius. With each forkful, you’re greeted by the zesty brightness of lemons mingling with the savory goodness of garlic and butter – it’s like a party in your mouth! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Now, let’s be real for a second. We’ve all had those days when dinner feels like an Olympic sport. You’re juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and maybe even trying to squeeze in a workout (who are we kidding?). This recipe is your ticket to a stress-free yet impressive meal that will have everyone asking for seconds! Whether it’s a weeknight gathering or a cozy family dinner, this dish fits right in.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is incredibly easy to whip up after a long day.
- The flavor profile is bright and savory, making every bite delightful.
- Visually, the golden chicken against vibrant green beans makes for an Instagram-worthy plate.
- Perfectly versatile, this dish pairs beautifully with rice or pasta and is great for meal prep too!
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I typically use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
- Fresh Garlic: Nothing beats the flavor of freshly minced garlic; grab the firmest cloves you can find!
- Green Beans: Look for crisp green beans; they add great texture and color.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed lemon juice elevates the dish; don’t skip the zest for extra zing!
- Butter: A good quality unsalted butter adds creaminess without overpowering the flavors.
For the Seasoning:
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning your chicken; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Clean and trim your green beans while you let your chicken come to room temperature. No one likes cold chicken!
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over both sides of each chicken breast. This will ensure that each bite is flavorful!
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt two tablespoons of butter until it bubbles happily. Add your seasoned chicken breasts and let them sear for about 6-7 minutes per side until they’re perfectly golden brown.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Green Beans
Once your chicken is cooked through (about 165°F internally), toss in minced garlic along with those beautiful green beans. Sauté everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the beans are tender-crisp.
Step 5: Bring on the Lemon
Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and zest over everything! Stir well so that all those flavors blend together beautifully.
Step 6: Finish with Butter
Add another tablespoon of butter into the mix; this creates a luscious sauce that coats everything perfectly. Let it simmer for an additional minute before serving.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every zesty bite of this delightful Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet!
This meal’s easy preparation paired with its mouthwatering flavor profile makes it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. So go ahead, get cooking!
You Must Know
- This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet offers a delightful blend of flavors and simplicity.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually appealing on any dinner table.
- It’s perfect for busy weeknights but impressive enough for guests.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in all that juicy goodness. While it cooks, toss your green beans into the pan with lemon and garlic, letting their flavors meld beautifully. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly and tastes fantastic.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish! Swap out green beans for asparagus or broccoli, or add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor. A dash of red pepper flakes can also spice things up if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken while preserving those tasty green beans.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps it juicy and tender.
- Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor; it’s worth the little extra effort.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing; give each piece room to brown perfectly.
Sharing this dish with friends brought back fond memories of family dinners where laughter filled the air alongside the aroma of garlic butter chicken. It’s a recipe that never fails to impress!
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet?
To prepare Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet, you will need chicken breasts, fresh green beans, garlic, butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor. This simple ingredient list ensures a quick preparation while delivering a delicious meal that’s packed with nutrients. fresh salad complement Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, these ingredients are accessible and can provide a delightful dinner experience.
How long does it take to cook Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet?
The cooking time for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is approximately 30 to 35 minutes. This includes about 5-10 minutes of preparation time and around 20-25 minutes of actual cooking time. sweet lemon dessert pairing The quick turnaround makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights when you need a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor. Just follow the steps carefully to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Can I modify the recipe for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet?
Yes, you can definitely modify the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet recipe according to your tastes. Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. You can also use other vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli if you prefer. Adjusting seasonings or adding spices can also enhance the dish while keeping it within the same framework. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail Recipe recipe.
Is Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet healthy?
Absolutely! Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a healthy meal option that provides lean protein from chicken and essential vitamins from green beans. The use of butter adds richness but should be used in moderation. healthy snack alternative Incorporating lemon juice not only enhances flavor but also boosts vitamin C content. Overall, this dish is well-balanced and aligns with healthy eating principles when prepared mindfully.
Conclusion for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
In conclusion, Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is an easy-to-make dish that combines flavor with nutrition. Using simple ingredients like chicken, green beans, butter, garlic, and lemon juice creates a delightful meal in under 35 minutes. morning brunch idea Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, this skillet recipe offers versatility for modifications while remaining deliciously satisfying. Enjoy this wholesome dish as part of your regular dinner rotation!
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Description
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal that combines juicy chicken with vibrant green beans in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it an irresistible comfort food option.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (divided)
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients, allowing chicken to come to room temperature.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken and sear for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Add minced garlic and green beans to the skillet; sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the beans are tender-crisp.
- Squeeze in lemon juice and zest; stir well.
- Add remaining butter to create a luscious sauce. Simmer for an additional minute before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with green beans (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: Customize by substituting green beans with asparagus or broccoli. For added flavor, sprinkle with parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
