Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

This one-skillet Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans recipe is a quick, flavorful, and wholesome meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed dinners. Juicy chicken breasts are seasoned to perfection and cooked alongside crisp-tender green beans in a rich lemon garlic butter sauce. It’s a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to make—ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed (about 4 cups)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt , pepper , dried oregano , dried thyme , and paprika . This seasoning blend adds depth and enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat .
2. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 5–6 minutes per side , or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C ). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Green Beans

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil .
2. Toss in the green beans and sauté for 5–7 minutes , stirring occasionally, until they’re tender-crisp and slightly charred.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Lemon

1. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute , until fragrant.
2. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice , scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to incorporate those flavorful caramelized bits into the dish.

Step 5: Finish with Butter and Combine

1. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the unsalted butter , letting it melt and coat the green beans in a luscious, glossy sauce.
2. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the green beans and sauce. Let everything warm through for 1–2 minutes .

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve hot directly from the skillet, spooning the lemon garlic butter sauce over the chicken and green beans for extra flavor.

Tips for Success

• Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness (about ¾ inch) to ensure even cooking.
• Green Bean Variations: Add diced carrots, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra veggies and color.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and green beans separately for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a one-pan wonder that delivers bold flavors and tender textures with minimal cleanup. The lemon garlic butter sauce ties everything together, creating a bright, savory, and slightly tangy dish that’s irresistible. Pair it with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up every last drop of the sauce. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Dive into this zesty, buttery masterpiece and enjoy every bite!