Welcome to an irresistible recipe for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet! Whether you’re searching for an easy-to-make, one-pan meal or want to impress your family with a flavorful dish, this lemon garlic chicken skillet will be your new go-to recipe. Let’s dive into the details of this perfect combination of juicy chicken thighs and tender green beans cooked in a delightful lemon garlic butter sauce!
Introduction
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken dish is not just about flavor; it’s about simplicity and versatility. Originating from the desire to create a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe fuses the bold flavors of garlic, lemon, and butter into a hearty meal. Chicken lovers will appreciate how the butter enhances the richness, while the lemon adds a fresh tang, balancing the taste perfectly.
For those who love easy chicken recipes or are fans of quick weeknight dinners, this lemon garlic chicken skillet is a must-try. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a healthy dish that satisfies your comfort food cravings without the hassle.
You can also enjoy this recipe as a great introduction to skillet meals, which require minimal cleanup and deliver maximum flavor.
Explore another easy meal here.
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your lemon garlic chicken skillet:
- 3–6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
- 1 pound (450g) green beans, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided (or ghee for paleo)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt and fresh cracked black pepper
- Juice of 1/2 lemon + lemon slices, for garnish
- 1/2 cup (125ml) chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (e.g., Sriracha)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh chopped parsley
Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your dietary needs. For a paleo version, substitute butter with ghee, and omit the hot sauce for a milder version. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or broccoli for a more colorful plate.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, ensuring the chicken browns beautifully.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the chicken thighs generously with the seasoning mixture and set them aside.
Step 3: Cook the Green Beans
Place the green beans in a microwave-safe dish with 1/2 cup water and microwave them for 8-10 minutes, until they are almost tender but still slightly crisp.
Step 4: Brown the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs and cook them for 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add garlic, parsley, hot sauce, and red chili pepper flakes, stirring constantly for 4-5 minutes. Pour in the lemon juice and chicken stock, reducing the sauce for another few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Push the green beans to one side of the skillet and return the chicken to the pan. Coat the chicken with the sauce, reheat it, and serve immediately, garnished with lemon slices and more parsley if desired.
For another easy and satisfying meal idea, check out this Sausage Balls Recipe.
Helpful Tips for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
- Use fresh ingredients for the best results. Fresh garlic and lemon juice enhance the flavor far more than pre-minced garlic or bottled lemon juice.
- Don’t rush the cooking process. Allow the chicken thighs to cook thoroughly for a juicy texture.
- If you want a crispier texture on the chicken, finish it off in the oven at 400°F for 5 minutes.
Cooking Tips for the Best Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: It provides even heating and helps develop a golden crust on the chicken.
- Adjust Heat as Needed: If the chicken browns too quickly, lower the heat to prevent burning while ensuring the meat remains juicy.
- Let the Sauce Thicken: Reduce the sauce just enough so it clings to the chicken and green beans, but avoid overcooking, which can lead to dryness.
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
This lemon garlic chicken skillet pairs wonderfully with:
- Mashed potatoes or a simple rice pilaf
- A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon and mint
For a complete meal, serve this skillet alongside homemade garlic bread or buttered noodles.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fats: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and offers a great dose of vitamin C from the lemon juice and green beans. It’s a delicious low-carb option for those seeking healthier alternatives!
Storage and Leftovers for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
To store leftovers, place the chicken and green beans in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to preserve the texture and flavor. If using a microwave, heat on low to avoid overcooking the chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as chicken breasts cook faster than thighs.
- Can I make this dish dairy-free? Absolutely. Substitute butter with olive oil or a dairy-free alternative.
- What other vegetables can I use? Broccoli, asparagus, or carrots work well with the flavors of lemon and garlic.
- Is this dish suitable for meal prep? Yes! It reheats beautifully and can be prepped in advance for easy meals throughout the week.
Related Recipes for Lemon Lovers
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or an elegant weekend dinner. Give this recipe a try, and feel free to share your personal variations! We would love to hear your feedback in the comments.
Happy cooking!
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Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe | Easy Meal
Description
Welcome to an irresistible recipe for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet! Whether you’re searching for an easy-to-make, one-pan meal or want to impress your family with a flavorful dish, this lemon garlic chicken skillet will be your new go-to recipe. Let’s dive into the details of this perfect combination of juicy chicken thighs and tender green beans cooked in a delightful lemon garlic butter sauce!
Ingredients
- 3–6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
- 1 pound (450g) green beans, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided (or ghee for paleo)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt and fresh cracked black pepper
- Juice of 1/2 lemon + lemon slices, for garnish
- 1/2 cup (125ml) chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (e.g., 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, ensuring the chicken browns beautifully.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the chicken thighs generously with the seasoning mixture and set them aside.
Step 3: Cook the Green Beans
Place the green beans in a microwave-safe dish with 1/2 cup water and microwave them for 8-10 minutes, until they are almost tender but still slightly crisp.
Step 4: Brown the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs and cook them for 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add garlic, parsley, hot sauce, and red chili pepper flakes, stirring constantly for 4-5 minutes. Pour in the lemon juice and chicken stock, reducing the sauce for another few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Push the green beans to one side of the skillet and return the chicken to the pan. Coat the chicken with the sauce, reheat it, and serve immediately, garnished with lemon slices and more parsley if desired.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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- Use fresh ingredients for the best results. Fresh garlic and lemon juice enhance the flavor far more than pre-minced garlic or bottled lemon juice.
- Don’t rush the cooking process. Allow the chicken thighs to cook thoroughly for a juicy texture.
- If you want a crispier texture on the chicken, finish it off in the oven at 400°F for 5 minutes.
