Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Green Beans
- Sauté Green Beans: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the trimmed green beans, season with salt and black pepper, and sauté for 5-6 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Remove the green beans from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- Melt Butter: In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Cook Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Lemon and Broth: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add Herbs: Stir in the dried thyme and dried parsley. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Add Green Beans: Add the sautéed green beans back to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to coat.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate the Dish: Serve the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley and lemon slices if desired.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Addition: Add sliced mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the skillet with the green beans for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Herb Variation: Substitute fresh rosemary or basil for thyme and parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure the chicken broth used is gluten-free if you are accommodating a gluten-free diet.
Conclusion
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans is a delicious and easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner. The combination of juicy chicken and tender green beans in a flavorful lemon garlic butter sauce makes this dish a standout. Enjoy making and savoring this delightful recipe with your family and friends.
Key Takeaway
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans offer a flavorful and healthy one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare and full of fresh, vibrant flavors. This versatile recipe can be customized with various herbs and vegetables to suit your taste. Enjoy the delicious and satisfying results of this delightful dish!