Are you ready to whip up a delicious and satisfying meal in no time? The Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or special gatherings. This one-pan recipe combines tender chicken, fresh green beans, and a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. This dish not only looks beautiful on the plate but also brings together simple ingredients for a flavorful experience that everyone will love.
Ingredients
To create this delightful Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans, gather the following ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 pounds)
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
These ingredients come together to create a bright and savory dish that is quick to prepare yet packed with flavor.
Instructions
Start by preparing your kitchen for an easy cooking experience. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans:
1. Begin by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter.
3. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet.
4. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
5. In the same skillet, add the remaining two tablespoons of butter along with minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet, stirring well to coat them in the garlic butter mixture.
7. Squeeze in the juice of one lemon and sprinkle in the lemon zest while stirring.
8. Cook the green beans for about 4-5 minutes or until they are tender but still crisp.
9. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them among the green beans.
10. Allow everything to simmer together for another 2 minutes so that flavors combine beautifully.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
12. Remove from heat and garnish your dish with fresh parsley before serving.
This easy recipe for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans highlights how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable meal without unnecessary complexity. Serve this dish alongside rice or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious buttery sauce! Enjoy every bite as you savor this quick yet impressive dinner option perfect for any occasion.
Tips and tricks
To make your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans truly special, consider these helpful tips. First, use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh garlic and green beans can significantly enhance the flavors in your dish. Second, don’t rush the cooking process. Allowing the chicken to sear properly before flipping will give it a beautiful golden crust. This adds texture and flavor to your meal.
Another great tip is to adjust the seasoning to your preference. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder taste, simply reduce the amount of garlic or lemon juice used.
Lastly, feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. These additions can provide variety and additional nutrients to your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans.
FAQs
What is the best way to store leftover Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the chicken moist, it’s best to separate it from the green beans if you plan on reheating them later. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal again, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. You can add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture during reheating.
Can I use frozen green beans in this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen green beans in your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans recipe. However, keep in mind that frozen vegetables may release more water than fresh ones while cooking. To counteract this, cook them for a bit longer until they are heated through and tender. Just be sure not to overcook them; they should still have some crunch when served.
What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans?
This delicious dish pairs well with various sides! Consider serving it over rice or quinoa for a hearty meal that’s filling and satisfying. Alternatively, you could serve it alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a lighter option. For those who enjoy bread, crusty rolls or garlic bread would also complement this meal nicely.
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans is not only simple but also flavorful and satisfying. With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. By following the tips provided, you can create a memorable meal that everyone will love. Enjoy!