Looking for a fast, flavorful dinner that doesn’t require a sink full of dishes? This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is juicy, garlicky, buttery, and bursting with zesty lemon freshness in every bite. It’s a one-pan wonder that turns simple ingredients into a weeknight masterpiece. With just a few everyday items from your fridge and pantry, you can whip up a comforting, protein-packed dish in under 30 minutes.
I first stumbled upon a version of this dish during a chaotic weeknight. Tired, hungry, and low on groceries, I threw together chicken, garlic, butter, and green beans… and magic happened. Now, it’s a go-to favorite in our home. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or prepping lunch for the week, this recipe delivers on both flavor and ease.
Table of Contents
Compared to our Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes Carrots and Zucchini, this skillet meal is even quicker and has a bold, citrusy twist that pairs beautifully with savory chicken. If you love meals that come together quickly and taste like you put in way more effort than you actually did—this one’s for you.
Love easy skillet meals? Try our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
What is Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet?
Let’s break down this fancy-sounding name: chicken, green beans, garlic, lemon, butter—all cooked together in one skillet. Easy, right? But why does it sound like it belongs on a restaurant menu? Because it tastes like it does.
The combination of zesty lemon juice, rich butter, and pungent garlic makes your kitchen smell amazing and your taste buds dance. And green beans? They’re not just a side here—they soak up all the flavor, making them the unsung hero of the dish.
As the old saying goes, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach—but honestly, this recipe will win over everyone. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 oz green beans trimmed
- Optional: red pepper flakes fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the ingredients: Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Trim and rinse the green beans.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken breasts for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- Cook the green beans: In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of butter and the green beans. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
- Make the garlic lemon butter sauce: Add remaining butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest. Let simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Combine and finish: Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over everything, and cook 2–3 more minutes until heated through. Garnish and serve.
Notes
Pros :
- Quick 30-minute weeknight dinner
- One-pan cleanup
- Loaded with fresh, zesty flavor
- Low-carb and keto-friendly
- Meal prep and freezer friendly
- High in protein and nutrients
Cons :
- Not vegetarian-friendly
- Requires fresh lemon for best flavor
- Can overcook quickly if not watched
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
- Incredible Flavor in Every Bite: The lemon-garlic-butter combo creates a sauce that’s tangy, savory, and just rich enough to feel indulgent without being heavy.
- Saves Money, Time, and Dishes: Skip the takeout! This dish uses everyday ingredients and cooks up in a single skillet, saving you clean-up time and money.
- Customizable and Family-Friendly: Don’t love green beans? Swap in broccoli or asparagus. Want more heat? Add red pepper flakes. It’s an adaptable recipe that works with what you have.
Want more lemon flavor? Don’t miss the Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes Carrots and Zucchini.
It’s like our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, but faster, lighter, and with a veggie-loaded kick. You’ll definitely want to add this to your regular dinner rotation. Let’s dive into how to make it!
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How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
Quick Overview
This dish is the definition of weeknight ease. Chicken thighs or breasts are seared until golden, then cooked with butter, garlic, lemon, and green beans for a complete, flavorful meal. The prep takes about 10 minutes, and the whole thing is ready in 25–30 minutes total.
Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is foolproof, and incredibly satisfying.
Key Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon + zest
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Craving bold garlic flavor? You’ll love these Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes, a quick skillet dinner with serious flavor punch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Deglaze with Lemon & Broth: Pour in lemon juice, zest, and chicken broth. Scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Cook the Green Beans: Add green beans to the pan. Cover and cook for 5–6 minutes until just tender.
- Return Chicken to the Pan: Nestle chicken back into the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top and cook 1–2 more minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon.
What to Serve Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet With
- Steamed Rice or Mashed Potatoes: Perfect for soaking up that garlicky lemon butter sauce.
- Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls: Mop up every last bit of flavor.
- A Crisp Green Salad: Add freshness and crunch to balance the rich, savory elements.
- Chilled White Wine or Sparkling Water with Lemon: Complements the citrus in the dish.
Top Tips for Perfecting Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Sear the chicken in batches if needed to get a good crust.
- Use Fresh Lemon: Bottled juice won’t deliver the same brightness.
- For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine while deglazing or sprinkle with Parmesan before serving.
- Swap the Protein: Try shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
- Reheating: Add a splash of broth or water to keep everything moist while warming.
FAQ: Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
1. Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, just thaw and drain them first for best texture.
2. What’s the best cut of chicken for this recipe?
Boneless thighs are juicier, but breasts work great too.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter.
4. Is this meal keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s low-carb and packed with protein.
5. How do I make it spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
6. Can I add more veggies?
Absolutely. Try mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers.
7. What skillet should I use?
A large nonstick or cast iron skillet works best for even cooking
