Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet

Table of Contents

This easy one-skillet meal is bursting with fresh flavor from lemon, garlic, and herbs. Tender chicken and crisp green beans are cooked in a rich, buttery sauce that comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 3 tbsp butter

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

  • Juice of 1 lemon

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

  • 12 oz (340g) fresh green beans, trimmed

  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

  • Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, for a spicy kick

Instructions:

  1. Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning until evenly coated.

  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

  3. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.

  4. Cook the Green Beans: Add green beans to the skillet and cover. Let them cook for 4–5 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp. If needed, add a splash more broth to steam them.

  5. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together and let it simmer for 1–2 more minutes so the flavors meld.

  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.

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Q&A:

Q: Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
A: Yes! Just thaw and pat them dry before cooking. They’ll cook faster than fresh ones, so reduce the time slightly.

Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Absolutely. Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative or use extra olive oil. It’ll still be flavorful and satisfying.