🍗 Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
📖 Description:
This one-skillet dinner is pure comfort and flavor! Juicy, golden-browned chicken breasts are seared in a savory lemon garlic butter sauce alongside tender green beans. It’s zesty, buttery, herb-kissed, and all comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something simple but satisfying.
📝 Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
🍳 Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and thyme. - Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside. - Sauté the Garlic & Green Beans:
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, stir until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add green beans, and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until slightly tender but crisp. - Add the Lemon:
Pour in lemon juice and zest, stir to coat everything in the sauce. - Bring It All Together:
Return chicken to the skillet. Spoon the lemon butter over the top. Cover and let simmer for 2 minutes so flavors meld. - Garnish & Serve:
Top with chopped parsley and serve straight from the skillet!
👨🍳 Chef’s Tips:
- Swap It: You can sub chicken thighs for chicken breasts for more flavor and juiciness.
- Add Heat: A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes brings a nice kick.
- Make It Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream at the end if you want a richer sauce.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If available, use fresh thyme and oregano for extra fragrance.
- Prep Ahead: Marinate the chicken in the lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a few hours for deeper flavor.
🍽️ Servings:
4 servings
Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week!
🔬 Nutritional Info (Per Serving — Estimate):
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: ~300mg
Note: Can vary slightly depending on the size of the chicken breasts and amount of butter/oil used.
🥦 Health Benefits:
- High Protein: Supports muscle growth and satiety.
- Lemon: A natural detoxifier and great source of Vitamin C.
- Garlic: Anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- Green Beans: Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A, C, and K.
- Low Carb: Great for keto or low-carb lifestyles.
❓Q & A:
Q: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Yep! Just thaw them first and pat dry so they don’t water down the sauce.
Q: What can I serve it with?
A: Great with rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb side.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
Let me know if you’d like a printable version, meal prep version, or a creamy twist on this recipe! 🍋🧄🔥