Quick Overview
If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dish to prepare during a busy weeknight, the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans is the perfect choice. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with vibrant green beans and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce that tantalizes your taste buds. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a wholesome meal that feels gourmet but is incredibly easy to make. The best part? Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The addition of green beans provides fiber and essential vitamins while the garlic and lemon add depth and brightness to the flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this meal is sure to impress. Serve it alongside rice or crusty bread to soak up the delightful sauce, and you have a complete dinner ready in no time. So let’s get started on making this delectable Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans.
Ingredient Breakdown
– **Chicken Breasts (4 pieces)**
Use boneless skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking and tenderness. They absorb flavors well and pair perfectly with the lemon-garlic sauce.
– **Fresh Green Beans (1 pound)**
Fresh green beans add crunch and color to the dish. Trim the ends before cooking to ensure they are tender yet crisp.
– **Butter (4 tablespoons)**
Unsalted butter enhances the richness of the sauce without overpowering it. It also helps in browning the chicken nicely.
– **Garlic (4 cloves)**
Minced garlic provides aromatic flavor and sweetness when sautéed. Fresh garlic works best for maximum flavor impact.
– **Lemon Juice (from 2 lemons)**
Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances out the richness of the butter.
– **Chicken Broth (1 cup)**
Chicken broth adds depth to the sauce while keeping the dish moist. Opt for low-sodium broth for better control over salt levels.
– **Salt & Pepper (to taste)**
Seasoning is essential for enhancing flavors. Adjust according to your personal preference.
Step By step Recipe: Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans
1. **Prepare Ingredients**
Start by gathering all ingredients. Rinse and trim green beans, mince garlic cloves, and cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This prep will streamline your cooking process.
2. **Cook Chicken**
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Add seasoned chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on both sides—about 6-8 minutes per side or until fully cooked through.
3. **Sauté Green Beans**
Once chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter along with trimmed green beans; sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they turn bright green but still crisp.
4. **Make Sauce**
Lower heat slightly; add minced garlic to the skillet with remaining butter. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—then pour in lemon juice and chicken broth while scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pan.
5. **Combine Ingredients**
Return cooked chicken back into the skillet along with any juices from the plate. Stir everything together gently so that each piece of chicken is coated in that delicious lemon-garlic sauce.
6. **Simmer**
Allow everything to simmer together for about 5 minutes over low heat until heated through and flavors meld beautifully together; season with salt and pepper as desired.
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet hot straight from the stove! Pair it with steamed rice or quinoa for a filling meal that complements its flavors perfectly. You can also serve it over mashed potatoes or alongside crusty bread to soak up every drop of that lovely sauce.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers after enjoying your meal, store them in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat on your stovetop or microwave until warmed through—this will keep your chicken moist while preventing overcooking.
Freezing Options
For longer storage, consider freezing portions of this dish! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers where it can last up to three months without losing its flavor or texture!
Meal Prep Ideas
This recipe makes an excellent choice for meal prep! Cook multiple servings at once so you have ready-to-eat lunches or dinners throughout your week; simply reheat when needed!
Mistakes to avoid
One common mistake when preparing Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans is overcrowding the skillet. When you add too many chicken pieces or vegetables, it prevents proper browning and can lead to steaming instead of searing. This results in a less flavorful dish. Always cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Another mistake is using low-quality ingredients. Fresh herbs, good-quality chicken, and fresh green beans can significantly impact the final flavor of your dish. Invest in quality ingredients to elevate your meal.
Failing to properly season at each stage can also diminish the taste of your dish. Season both the chicken and vegetables during cooking for a more impactful flavor profile. Don’t wait until the end; this ensures that every bite is delicious.
Lastly, not allowing your chicken to rest before slicing can lead to dry meat. Resting helps retain juices, making for a moist and tender chicken skillet.
Tips and tricks
One effective tip for a perfect Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans is to marinate your chicken beforehand. A simple marinade of lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil adds depth of flavor and keeps the chicken juicy during cooking. Aim for at least 30 minutes of marinating time for optimal results.
Another trick is to use a cast-iron skillet if you have one. This type of cookware distributes heat evenly, which promotes a nice sear on the chicken while keeping it tender inside. It also retains heat well, allowing for better cooking consistency throughout the process.
To save time during preparation, chop your garlic and green beans while the chicken marinates. This will streamline your cooking process, allowing you to focus on timing once you start cooking everything together.
Lastly, finish off your dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil just before serving. Not only does this add color but it also enhances freshness and provides an appealing presentation that elevates your meal visually and flavor-wise.
Suggestions for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans
For added flavor in your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans, consider incorporating a splash of white wine or chicken broth into the skillet after sautéing the garlic. This adds acidity and depth without overwhelming the dish’s primary flavors.
You might also want to experiment by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini alongside green beans for added texture and nutritional value. These vegetables complement the lemon-garlic sauce beautifully while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
If you enjoy spicy dishes, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into your butter sauce while cooking. This will give an extra kick that balances nicely with the acidity from the lemon juice.
Finally, serve this dish with a side of quinoa or rice to soak up all those delicious juices from the skillet. These grains provide a filling base that pairs wonderfully with the zesty chicken and crisp green beans.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans?
Cooking Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans typically takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish. The time may vary depending on how thick your chicken pieces are cut or how many servings you prepare at once. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety before serving.
Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans if fresh ones aren’t available. However, be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the skillet. Cooking them directly from frozen may cause unwanted water accumulation in your dish.
What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet?
This dish pairs well with various sides like rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes. You could also serve it alongside a light salad or some crusty bread for soaking up those delicious lemon-garlic juices from the skillet.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet dairy-free, simply swap out butter for olive oil or vegan butter alternatives in equal amounts. The flavor will still be rich without compromising dietary preferences.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare some components ahead of time by marinating the chicken in advance and chopping vegetables early in the day or even a day prior. However, it’s best to cook it fresh just before serving for optimal taste and texture.
How do I store leftovers from this recipe?
Store any leftover Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat on the stove top or microwave until warmed through but not overcooked.
Summary
In summary, making Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans involves avoiding common mistakes such as overcrowding your pan and not seasoning appropriately throughout cooking. Utilize helpful tips like marinating your chicken beforehand and using high-quality ingredients for great flavor enhancement. Consider adding complementary sides like rice or quinoa for complete meals while ensuring leftovers are stored properly for later enjoyment.