Name: Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Chicken and Seasoning:; 3–6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste; Green Beans and Sauce:; 1 pound (450g) green beans, trimmed; 3 tablespoons butter, divided (or ghee for paleo diet); 4 garlic cloves, minced; Juice of ½ lemon + lemon slices, for garnish; ½ cup (125ml) chicken stock; 1 tablespoon hot sauce (we used Sriracha); ¼ teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes, optional; ½ cup fresh chopped parsley

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Looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner recipe? This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is here to save the day! Not only does it pack a punch with its zesty lemon garlic butter sauce, but it also comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Juicy chicken thighs paired with perfectly cooked green beans make this dish a wholesome and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or even a cozy weekend dinner.

Let’s dive into how you can whip up this mouthwatering dish in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Skillet Meal: Everything is cooked in one pan, which means fewer dishes to wash!
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon, garlic, butter, and spices creates a sauce that’s absolutely irresistible.
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from the green beans, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Customizable: You can tweak the spice level or swap out the green beans for another veggie of your choice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful skillet recipe:

3–6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
1 pound (450g) green beans, trimmed
3 tablespoons butter (or ghee for a paleo-friendly option), divided
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
Juice of 1/2 lemon + lemon slices for garnish
1/2 cup (125ml) chicken stock
1 tablespoon hot sauce (we used Sriracha)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup fresh chopped parsley

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown sear. In a small bowl, mix the onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Generously rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs. Set them aside while you prepare the green beans.

Step 2: Pre-Cook the Green Beans

Place the trimmed green beans in a microwave-safe dish with 1/2 cup (125ml) of water. Microwave them for 8–10 minutes until they’re almost cooked but still crisp. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-low heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the skillet, top side down, and cook for about 5–6 minutes until golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5–6 minutes until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). If the chicken browns too quickly, lower the heat. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce and Cook the Green Beans

In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, hot sauce, red chili pepper flakes (if using), and pre-cooked green beans. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring regularly, until the green beans are cooked to your liking.

Next, pour in the lemon juice and chicken stock. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes until it reduces slightly and thickens.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Push the green beans to one side of the skillet and return the chicken thighs to the pan. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to coat it well. Let everything heat through for another minute or two.

Serve your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet warm, garnished with additional parsley, a sprinkle of crushed chili flakes (if desired), and a slice of lemon on top for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Don’t Skip Drying the Chicken: Removing excess moisture ensures you get that beautiful golden-brown crust on your chicken thighs.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re not a fan of heat, feel free to skip the crushed red chili flakes or reduce the amount of hot sauce. Conversely, if you love spice, add more!
Swap Out Veggies: While green beans work wonderfully in this recipe, you can substitute them with asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini for variety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?

Absolutely! If you prefer chicken breasts, you can use them instead of thighs. Just be mindful of cooking time since chicken breasts tend to cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.

Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

Yes! Simply replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or coconut oil to make this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet.

Is This Recipe Keto-Friendly?

Yes! The ingredients used in this recipe are keto-friendly, making it a great option for those following a low-carb lifestyle.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I Freeze This Dish?

While you can freeze cooked chicken thighs, we don’t recommend freezing green beans as they can become mushy upon thawing. If you plan to freeze this dish, store only the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container. When ready to eat, prepare fresh green beans to serve alongside.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. The tangy lemon juice combined with savory garlic butter sauce elevates this dish to restaurant-quality status—all from the comfort of your kitchen!

Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends for dinner, this one-skillet wonder is sure to impress everyone at the table. Give it a try tonight—you won’t be disappointed!