There’s something undeniably satisfying about a meal that comes together in one pan, effortlessly blending vibrant flavors with minimal cleanup. Picture this: the zesty sparkle of lemon mingling with the rich warmth of garlic, breathing life into perfectly cooked chicken. This Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet with Green Beans is my go-to recipe for busy evenings when I crave something wholesome yet quick.
As I set the skillet on the stove, the tantalizing aroma fills my kitchen, slightly hinting at the comforting dinner to come. The tender chicken breasts soak up the zesty marinade, while the green beans add a delightful crunch and a pop of color to the plate. It’s hard to believe that such a fresh and delicious dish can be ready in under 30 minutes! Whether you’re navigating a hectic schedule or simply looking to spice up your weeknight dinners, this one-pan wonder is sure to impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that might just become your new favorite!
Why is Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet with Green Beans a must-try?
Simplicity at Its Best: This one-pan dish requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich, Zesty Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon and garlic infuses every bite with a vibrant taste that elevates simple ingredients into something special.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish enjoys universal appeal and is sure to impress.
Healthy Choice: With lean protein and fresh vegetables, it’s not only delicious but also wholesome, fitting perfectly into low-carb diets.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for those evenings when you need a satisfying meal without the fuss.
This Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet is truly a delightful way to bring excitement back to your kitchen and fuel your week!
Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Butter – Adds richness and helps in sautéing; can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Provides lean protein; chicken thighs can be used for a juicier variation.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor depth; fresh garlic offers a more robust taste.
• Salt – Balances flavor; adjust to taste for low-sodium diets.
• Ground Black Pepper – Adds heat and flavor; freshly cracked is preferred.
For the Green Beans
• Whole Green Beans (frozen) – Provides texture and color; fresh beans can be substituted, adjusting cooking time.
• Fresh Garlic (minced) – Offers a fragrant and savory element; adjust amount to match your garlic cravings.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Adds acidity and brightness; substitute with lemon zest for an even stronger flavor.
For Garnish
• Chopped Fresh Parsley – Adds freshness and visual appeal; any fresh herbs like thyme could also work here.
This Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet is a delightful way to enjoy a quick and wholesome dinner while savoring the burst of flavors it brings to the table.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet with Green Beans
Melt the Butter: Begin by heating the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s melted and bubbly. This will create a rich base for our dish!
Season the Chicken: Generously season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Sear the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and cook for 4 minutes without moving it. This helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Add Lemon and Garlic: Drizzle half of the fresh lemon juice over the chicken. Sprinkle on minced garlic and chopped parsley. Flip the chicken, then drizzle the remaining lemon juice over the top for that zesty flavor.
Incorporate the Green Beans: Add the frozen green beans around the chicken in the skillet. Cover with a lid and cook for about 6 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Finish Cooking the Green Beans: For softer green beans, remove the chicken after 6 minutes and continue cooking the beans for an additional 2-3 minutes, covered.
Optional: Serve hot garnished with extra fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet
Uniform Thickness: Ensure chicken breasts are pounded to even thickness for uniform cooking, preventing any dry spots.
Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to accurately check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Don’t Overflip: Avoid frequent flipping of the chicken; let it sear for a beautiful crust, enhancing the overall flavor of the Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet.
Adjust Cooking Time: If using chicken thighs instead of breasts, increase cooking time by a few minutes, ensuring they cook through properly.
Flavor Boost: For an extra burst of freshness, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving; it elevates the dish beautifully!
Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet Variations
Customize your Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet with these delightful twists that cater to your taste buds and dietary preferences!
Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat that remains tender throughout cooking.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in bell peppers or carrots along with the green beans for an extra burst of color, crunch, and nutrition.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with rosemary or thyme instead of parsley for a fragrant twist that complements the lemon beautifully.
Zest it Up: Add lemon zest to the marinade for an intensified lemon flavor that elevates every bite with zestiness.
Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up for those who enjoy a little heat.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the amount of minced fresh garlic for a more robust flavor, creating a heavenly aromatic experience as it cooks.
Nutty Contrast: Sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts on top before serving for a nutty crunch that contrasts wonderfully with tender chicken and green beans.
Pasta Addition: Serve the chicken and green beans over cooked pasta or on a bed of quinoa for a heartier meal that’s still packed with flavor.
Let your creativity shine and make this dish your own!
Make Ahead Options
This Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet with Green Beans is absolutely perfect for meal prep! You can season and marinate the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance, allowing all those vibrant flavors to infuse deeply. Simply cover the chicken with the garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half the lemon juice, refrigerating it until you’re ready to cook. The green beans can be portioned and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just sauté the chicken as directed, add the green beans, and let the skillet work its magic. This preparation ensures that dinner is not only quicker but just as delicious, making your busy weeknights a breeze!
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the chicken and green beans fresh. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet, place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags. It will last for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers on medium-low heat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
Avoid Repeated Freezing: Once thawed, do not refreeze the dish to maintain quality and safety.
What to Serve with Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet with Green Beans?
Imagine the sizzling sounds and enticing aromas that fill your kitchen as you prepare this meal—now, let’s think about how to elevate that experience even further!
Fluffy Quinoa: A light and nutty base that contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken and vibrant green beans.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The comforting texture provides a rich backdrop, soaking up the lemony juices for a flavorful bite.
Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, this savory treat serves as a perfect vessel for capturing every bit of the dish’s delicious sauce. Just imagine the crunch paired with soft chicken!
Crisp Garden Salad: A refreshing medley of greens adds a bright and crunchy element, balancing the hearty chicken skillet perfectly with its freshness.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet, these tender bites bring an earthy flavor that complements the lemony chicken beautifully.
Lemonade: A chilled glass of this zesty drink enhances the meal with its refreshing acidity, echoing the dish’s vibrant flavors.
Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a light and refreshing sorbet will cleanse the palate, making it a delightful ending to this wholesome meal.
Pairing these sides and drinks will create a full and satisfying dining experience that everyone at your table will love!
Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet with Green Beans Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet. They cook quickly and soak up all the zesty lemon and garlic flavors beautifully. If you prefer a juicier alternative, chicken thighs can also work; just be mindful to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through to avoid drying it out.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze this dish! After allowing it to cool completely, transfer portions into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will retain its quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How can I ensure the chicken is cooked properly?
Using a meat thermometer is key! Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be fully cooked and safe to eat. To achieve this, avoid flipping the chicken too often and let it sear nicely for the best flavor.
What if my green beans are overcooked?
If your green beans end up overcooked and mushy, don’t worry too much; it happens! To prevent this next time, add the beans during the latter part of cooking, and keep an eye on them while cooking. You can also try using fresh green beans, which may cook more quickly, giving you that desired crispness.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
This Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet is a healthy choice, low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it perfect for low-carb diets. However, if you have specific allergies, be cautious with the ingredients like butter and seasonings. Always feel free to substitute with alternatives, such as using olive oil for dairy-free options.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet with Green Beans in 30 Minutes
Equipment
- - Large skillet
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 3 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option
- 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier variation
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic offers a more robust taste
- 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste for low-sodium diets
- 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Freshly cracked is preferred
For the Green Beans
- 12 ounces Whole Green Beans (frozen) Fresh beans can be substituted, adjusting cooking time
- 2 cloves Fresh Garlic (minced) Adjust amount to match your garlic cravings
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice Substitute with lemon zest for stronger flavor
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley Any fresh herbs like thyme could also work
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Melt the Butter: Begin by heating the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it's melted and bubbly. This will create a rich base for our dish!
- Season the Chicken: Generously season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and cook for 4 minutes without moving it. This helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Add Lemon and Garlic: Drizzle half of the fresh lemon juice over the chicken. Sprinkle on minced garlic and chopped parsley. Flip the chicken, then drizzle the remaining lemon juice over the top for that zesty flavor.
- Incorporate the Green Beans: Add the frozen green beans around the chicken in the skillet. Cover with a lid and cook for about 6 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Finish Cooking the Green Beans: For softer green beans, remove the chicken after 6 minutes and continue cooking the beans for an additional 2-3 minutes, covered.