Hello, food enthusiasts! If you’re searching for a delicious and simple weeknight meal, look no further than this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet. This one-pan recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. The tangy lemon, rich garlic butter, and tender chicken come together beautifully, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
Introduction
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a wonderful option for those looking for a quick yet elegant meal. With a mix of juicy chicken thighs and crisp green beans, all smothered in a zesty lemon garlic sauce, it’s hard to resist. Originating from a classic European flavor profile, the combination of lemon, garlic, and butter has been a timeless favorite in kitchens around the world.
Not only does this dish taste amazing, but it’s also a fantastic option for anyone wanting to enjoy a low-carb, protein-rich meal that feels indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this one-pan recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
To prepare this delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 – 6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
- 1 pound (450g) green beans, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided (or use ghee for a paleo-friendly option)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- Juice of 1/2 lemon + lemon slices for garnish
- 1/2 cup (125ml) chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (we recommend using Sriracha)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh chopped parsley
Feel free to swap ingredients to accommodate dietary needs, such as using coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken – Step by Step
Step1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which helps achieve a beautiful golden brown sear.
Step2: Season the Chicken
- Combine onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Rub the seasoning mixture generously over the chicken thighs and set them aside while you prep the green beans.
Step3: Cook the Green Beans
- Arrange green beans in a microwave-safe dish with 1/2 cup (125ml) of water.
- Cook in the microwave for 8-10 minutes until almost tender but still crisp.
Step4: Sear the Chicken
- Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-low heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs top-side down in the hot skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-6 minutes until cooked through and a thermometer reads 165°F (75°C).
Step5: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat and melt the remaining tablespoon of butter.
- Add minced garlic, chopped parsley, hot sauce, and red chili pepper flakes.
- Stir in the pre-cooked green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes, then add lemon juice and chicken stock.
- Reduce the sauce for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step6: Combine and Serve
- Push the green beans to the side and place the chicken back into the skillet with the sauce.
- Reheat the chicken for a few minutes and serve the dish warm, garnished with additional crushed chili pepper, parsley, and lemon slices.
Helpful Tips for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Removing excess moisture from the chicken thighs ensures a crispy sear.
- Adjust Heat Accordingly: If the chicken is browning too quickly, lower the heat to avoid overcooking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly minced garlic and lemon juice enhance the flavor significantly.
- Make It Spicier: Add more red chili flakes or increase the hot sauce for a fiery kick.
Cooking Tips for the Best Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: A cast-iron skillet works best for even cooking and browning.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even searing.
- Deglaze the Pan: Use chicken stock to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for maximum flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Pair this delightful dish with:
- Roasted Potatoes or Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Cauliflower Rice for a low-carb option
- A crisp Caesar Salad or a fresh garden salad
- Serve with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc for a complete dining experience.
Nutritional Information
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a wholesome, nutrient-dense meal. Each serving provides:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
Nutritional Info for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken (per serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 24g
Storage and Leftovers for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Just be mindful of cooking times as chicken breasts tend to dry out quicker.
Q2: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, simply replace butter with coconut oil or a plant-based alternative.
Q3: What other vegetables can I use?
Try asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for variation.
Q4: How can I make this recipe spicier?
Increase the amount of red chili flakes or hot sauce to kick up the heat.
Related Recipes for Lemon Lovers
Conclusion
Thank you for exploring this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet Recipe! If you try it at home, please leave your feedback or share your own twists on the dish. Happy Cooking!
Print
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe – Easy One-Pan Meal
Description
Hello, food enthusiasts! If you’re searching for a delicious and simple weeknight meal, look no further than this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet. This one-pan recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. The tangy lemon, rich garlic butter, and tender chicken come together beautifully, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3 – 6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
- 1 pound (450g) green beans, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided (or use ghee for a paleo-friendly option)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- Juice of 1/2 lemon + lemon slices for garnish
- 1/2 cup (125ml) chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (we recommend using Sriracha)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which helps achieve a beautiful golden brown sear.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- Combine onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Rub the seasoning mixture generously over the chicken thighs and set them aside while you prep the green beans.
Step 3: Cook the Green Beans
- Arrange green beans in a microwave-safe dish with 1/2 cup (125ml) of water.
- Cook in the microwave for 8-10 minutes until almost tender but still crisp.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
- Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-low heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs top-side down in the hot skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-6 minutes until cooked through and a thermometer reads 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat and melt the remaining tablespoon of butter.
- Add minced garlic, chopped parsley, hot sauce, and red chili pepper flakes.
- Stir in the pre-cooked green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes, then add lemon juice and chicken stock.
- Reduce the sauce for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
- Push the green beans to the side and place the chicken back into the skillet with the sauce.
- Reheat the chicken for a few minutes and serve the dish warm, garnished with additional crushed chili pepper, parsley, and lemon slices.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Pat the Chicken Dry: Removing excess moisture from the chicken thighs ensures a crispy sear.
- Adjust Heat Accordingly: If the chicken is browning too quickly, lower the heat to avoid overcooking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly minced garlic and lemon juice enhance the flavor significantly.
- Make It Spicier: Add more red chili flakes or increase the hot sauce for a fiery kick.
