Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet: An Incredible 7-Ingredient Recipe

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet is a dish that will elevate your weeknight dinners to an amazing level. Combining tender chicken with vibrant green beans, all infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, this recipe is designed to tickle your taste buds while being simple to prepare. If you’re looking for a quick, healthy meal packed with flavor, then you’ve found a winner here. This dish comes together in a single skillet, maximizing flavor while minimizing cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Picture this: juicy chicken breast, perfectly seared, then glazed with a luscious garlic lemon butter sauce that coats every bite. Add the green beans, which retain their crisp texture and vibrant color, and the result is nothing short of magnificent. This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of vibrant flavors that can keep the family coming back for more.

In today’s busy world, finding a recipe that balances simplicity, health, and taste can be daunting. However, this incredible dish does just that. Whether you’re cooking for one or throwing a small dinner party, this recipe is versatile enough to impress everyone at the table.

Let’s dive into what makes this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet such a must-try, explore the preparation and cooking times, and get you started with the necessary ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet is not only quick but also extremely manageable. Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes

These times can vary slightly based on your cooking skills and kitchen equipment, but this framework should give you a solid estimate to work with.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet can be straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the Green Beans: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the green beans. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become vibrant and slightly tender.
5. Add the Garlic: Lower the heat and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
6. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour the lemon juice over the chicken and green beans. Stir to coat everything evenly.
7. Simmer: Let it all simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Garnish: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve directly from the skillet.

These straightforward steps will guide you in creating this incredible dish with ease.

How to Serve

To make your dining experience memorable with Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet, consider the following serving suggestions:

1. Presentation: Serve the dish right from the skillet for a rustic appeal. Professional presentation enhances the meal’s visual delight.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce if desired. A fresh garden salad can also be a perfect complement.
3. Garnish: A sprinkle of extra lemon zest or a few lemon wedges can add a pop of color and brightness.
4. Beverage Pairing: This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or infused sparkling water, enhancing the citrus notes of the chicken.
5. Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making for an easy meal prep option.

By focusing on how you serve this dish, you can elevate not just the meal but the overall experience for yourself and your guests. Enjoy this delightful combination of flavors that will quickly become a favorite!

Additional Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, opt for fresh green beans and organic chicken.
• Ensure Even Cooking: Make sure your chicken pieces are of similar thickness for even cooking.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning while cooking to match your flavor preference.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to get creative and customize this dish! Here are a few variations to consider:

1. Different Vegetables: Substitute green beans with asparagus, broccoli, or snap peas for a new twist.
2. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or paprika to the garlic butter sauce for an extra kick.
3. Lemon Herb Chicken: Marinate the chicken in lemon zest and herbs like thyme or rosemary for deeper flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days for best quality.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to three months. Portion it out for easier reheating, and ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Special Equipment

To make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet, you’ll need the following tools:

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Tongs for flipping the chicken
• Chef’s knife for chopping garlic and parsley
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with robust flavors. This recipe is bound to be a favorite in your household, delivering health and taste in a quick and easy format. Try making it tonight and enjoy the bonus of minimal cleanup!