Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a dish that dances on your taste buds, bursting with zesty goodness and vibrant colors. Picture tender chicken bathed in a luxurious lemon garlic butter sauce, perfectly complemented by crisp green beans that add a delightful crunch. The aroma alone will have you dreaming of sun-soaked summers and family dinners where laughter fills the air.
When I first stumbled upon this recipe, it was during one of those chaotic weeknight dinner rushes. You know the type—kids are bouncing off the walls, and you’re just trying to figure out how to get something delicious on the table without losing your sanity. This dish quickly became a lifesaver, and every bite takes me back to those moments filled with love, laughter, and just the right amount of chaos.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet comes together in under 30 minutes, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- The flavor is bright and rich, with a perfect balance of zestiness from the lemon and savory garlic notes.
- Its vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal.
- Plus, you can easily swap in any veggies you have on hand for added versatility.
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust according to your guest list.
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Fresh Green Beans: Look for bright green, crisp beans; they add both color and crunch to your skillet.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide an aromatic kick; you can never have too much garlic!
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances flavors; bottled juice just won’t cut it here.
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Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness in your dish.
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Olive Oil: A splash of extra virgin olive oil adds depth to the flavor profile while keeping everything nice and moist.
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Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings are key; adjust according to your taste preferences.
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 washing your green beans thoroughly. Trim off the ends so they look neat and ready for action. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces—this will help them cook evenly while soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil along with half of your butter. Once melted, toss in the chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until they’re golden brown on all sides.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Once the chicken has reached that beautiful golden hue, throw in minced garlic (because who doesn’t love garlic?). Sauté for another minute until fragrant—your kitchen will smell like heaven!
Step 4: Incorporate Green Beans
Next up are those lovely green beans! Toss them into the skillet along with lemon juice. Stir everything together and let it cook for about another 5 minutes until the beans are tender yet crisp.
Step 5: Finish with Butter
Add the remaining butter to the skillet, stirring gently until it melts into a silky sauce that coats everything beautifully. Taste test now; feel free to adjust seasoning as needed!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer everything onto serving plates, making sure to drizzle some of that luscious sauce over each portion. Voilà! You have yourself a stunning Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet ready to impress!
For an extra touch of pizzazz, consider serving it alongside fluffy rice or crusty bread—you won’t regret it!
Enjoying this dish at home brings memories of family gatherings or cozy evenings in. Each bite is not just food but a warm hug from my kitchen!
You Must Know
- This delightful Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is not just a meal; it’s an experience.
- With vibrant colors and the intoxicating aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen, it’s bound to impress.
- It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet for that beautiful golden crust. While it cooks, you can prepare the green beans and sauce simultaneously to save time. This multitasking ensures everything is perfectly cooked and ready to serve together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish! Swap the green beans for asparagus or broccoli, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, or toss in some cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor. Make it your own!
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat to preserve the texture and flavors without drying out the chicken.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always ensure your skillet is hot before adding chicken for a nice sear.
- This prevents sticking and enhances flavor.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy.
- Use fresh garlic when possible; it packs more flavor than powdered.
Sometimes I whip up this dish when friends come over, and their compliments always make me smile. It’s comforting to know that something so simple can bring everyone together around the table!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet?
For Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet, gather chicken breasts, fresh green beans, garlic, butter, lemon juice, and spices like salt and pepper. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also enhance flavor. Ensure you have a good quality butter to achieve that rich taste. Chicken thighs can be a great substitute if you prefer dark meat. This dish is simple yet packed with flavor. In addition to the main ingredients, consider adding some optional items like red pepper flakes for heat or lemon zest for an extra zing. With these ingredients on hand, you’ll create a delicious meal in no time.
How long does it take to cook Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet?
Cooking Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet typically takes about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Start by cooking the chicken until golden brown, which usually takes around 6-8 minutes per side depending on the thickness. Once the chicken is nearly done, add the green beans and let them cook until tender-crisp, which should take an additional 5-7 minutes. The garlic will need about a minute to become fragrant before finishing with lemon juice and butter. This dish not only offers a quick cooking time but also delivers vibrant flavors that will impress your family or guests.
Can I make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet ahead of time! For best results, cook the chicken and green beans separately before combining them. Store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, then add the green beans back in to heat them briefly. You might want to add an extra pat of butter or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice when reheating to maintain that rich flavor. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or meal prep.
What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet?
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet pairs well with various side dishes. Consider serving it alongside fluffy rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. Mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes also complement this dish nicely while absorbing its delicious buttery lemon sauce. If you’re looking for something lighter, a fresh garden salad dressed with vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the chicken. Additionally, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. Choose whichever sides suit your taste preferences!
Conclusion for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet :
In summary, Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is an easy yet flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken breasts with vibrant green beans in a rich garlic butter sauce enhanced by zesty lemon juice. Cooking this meal takes about 30-35 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings without compromising on taste or nutrition. You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time or pair it with versatile sides like rice or salad to create a balanced meal that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try; it’s bound to become a favorite in your household!
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a vibrant, one-pan meal that brings together juicy chicken and crisp green beans in a luscious lemon-garlic butter sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and bursts with fresh flavors and comforting aromas. It’s not just easy to make—it’s also adaptable, allowing you to swap in your favorite vegetables for a personal touch. Impress your family and friends with this delightful blend of taste and efficiency.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound fresh green beans
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Wash and trim the green beans; cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil and half the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken pieces; cook until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate green beans: Add green beans and lemon juice; cook for another 5 minutes until beans are tender yet crisp.
- Finish with butter: Stir in remaining butter until melted; adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Plate the dish, drizzling with sauce, and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
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