Quick Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe

 

Quick Overview

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that will impress your family or guests, look no further than this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans. This dish combines tender chicken breast with fresh green beans and a zesty lemon garlic sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or special occasions. You can have this delightful meal on the table in under 30 minutes!

Ingredient Breakdown

Chicken Breast

For this recipe, you’ll need four boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They should be about six ounces each. The chicken provides a rich protein base that absorbs the flavors of the lemon and garlic beautifully.

Fresh Green Beans

You will require two cups of fresh green beans, trimmed. These vibrant vegetables add color and crunch to the dish while providing essential nutrients.

Unsalted Butter

Use four tablespoons of unsalted butter. This will create a rich sauce that enhances the overall flavor without adding excessive salt.

Fresh Garlic

You will need four cloves of fresh garlic, minced. Garlic adds an aromatic depth to the dish and complements the lemon perfectly.

Fresh Lemon Juice

Juice from one large lemon is essential for a tangy flavor. It balances the richness of the butter and adds brightness to the meal.

Olive Oil

Using one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil helps to sauté the chicken evenly while adding additional flavor.

Salt and Pepper

Season with salt and pepper to taste. These basic seasonings allow you to adjust flavors according to your preference without overpowering other ingredients.

Step By Step Recipe: Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans

Prepare Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients on a clean countertop. Wash the green beans thoroughly under cold water and trim off the ends. Pat dry your chicken breasts using paper towels to ensure they sear well later on.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add one tablespoon of olive oil along with two tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Season them generously with salt and pepper. Cook for about six minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

Sautéing Green Beans

In the same skillet, add another two tablespoons of unsalted butter along with your trimmed green beans. Sauté them for about three minutes until they start to soften but still retain their crispness. Stir occasionally to avoid burning them.

Add Garlic and Lemon Juice

Once your green beans are tender but still crunchy, add minced garlic to the skillet. Stir continuously for about one minute until fragrant but not burned. Then squeeze in the juice from one large lemon while scraping any bits stuck at the bottom of the pan for added flavor.

Return Chicken to Skillet

After mixing in your garlic and lemon juice, return your cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet alongside the green beans. Spoon some of that delicious buttery sauce over each piece of chicken to ensure they soak up every bit of flavor as they warm through for an additional two minutes.

Serve Immediately

Once everything is heated through nicely, remove from heat. Plate your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans immediately while it’s hot for best flavor experience. Garnish if desired with extra lemon slices or parsley for added freshness.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet immediately after cooking for optimal taste and texture. Pair it with a light salad or serve over rice or quinoa if you prefer something heartier alongside these vibrant flavors.

Leftovers Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warmed through before serving again.

Freezing Options

If you want to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored frozen for up to three months; thaw overnight in your fridge before reheating as usual for best results.

This recipe offers convenience without sacrificing flavor—a perfect addition to any weeknight dinner rotation! Enjoy every savory bite!

Mistakes to avoid

One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. This leads to dry meat that lacks flavor. To prevent this, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for perfectly juicy results.

Another mistake is not seasoning the ingredients properly. Failing to season the chicken and green beans can result in bland flavors. Make sure to use salt, pepper, and other spices generously for maximum taste.

Additionally, neglecting to prep your ingredients beforehand can slow down the cooking process. Chop your garlic, trim the green beans, and have your butter ready before you start cooking. This makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

A final mistake to avoid is using low-quality butter or garlic. Both ingredients significantly impact the flavor of your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans. Always opt for fresh garlic and high-quality butter for the best results.

Tips and tricks

For a rich flavor in your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans, consider marinating the chicken before cooking. A simple marinade of lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil can infuse your chicken with moisture and zest. Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator for optimal flavor absorption.

Cooking on medium heat is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust on your chicken. High heat can cause burning while leaving the inside undercooked. Medium heat allows you to cook evenly while maintaining juiciness.

To add a vibrant color and crunch to your dish, blanch the green beans before adding them to the skillet. Boil them briefly in salted water until they are bright green and tender-crisp, then plunge them into ice water to stop cooking. This step locks in their color and nutrients.

Lastly, don’t rush adding herbs or finishing touches at the end of cooking. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme added just before serving elevate flavors without overpowering them. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving adds brightness and ties all flavors together beautifully.

Suggestions for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans

If you’re looking for side dishes that pair well with Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans, consider serving it over rice or quinoa. These grains soak up any leftover buttery sauce, making each bite delightful.

For a heartier meal, try adding roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes as an additional side dish. Their sweetness complements the savory notes of the chicken while providing a satisfying texture contrast.

Consider swapping out green beans for asparagus or broccoli if you want variety. Both vegetables work well with lemon and garlic flavors while offering different textures and nutritional benefits.

Finally, if you’re preparing this dish for meal prep, store leftover portions in airtight containers. This allows you to enjoy a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week without losing quality or flavor.

FAQs

What can I substitute for green beans in this recipe?

If you’re looking to substitute green beans in your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans, several options work well. Asparagus is a great alternative; its tender crunch pairs nicely with lemon-garlic flavors. Broccoli florets also make an excellent choice due to their ability to absorb sauces effectively while adding nutritional benefits.

Can I make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet ahead of time by following some simple steps. Cook the chicken fully and store it separately from veggies in airtight containers once cooled. To reheat later, warm everything gently on low heat until heated through; this prevents overcooking.

Is it possible to use frozen chicken breasts?

You can use frozen chicken breasts but be sure they are thawed completely before cooking for even results in your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans recipe. Thawed meat cooks more uniformly compared to frozen pieces directly placed into hot oil or butter.

How long does leftovers last?

Leftovers from your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans typically last 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ensure they cool down before sealing them tightly so moisture doesn’t build up inside.

Can I use other herbs besides garlic?

Absolutely! While garlic plays a key role in flavoring this dish, you can experiment with other herbs such as rosemary or thyme if desired! Just remember that these will impart different tastes than traditional garlic but still deliciously complement lemony notes!

What should I serve with it?

This hearty meal pairs wonderfully with various sides like fluffy rice pilaf or creamy mashed potatoes! You might also enjoy it alongside a fresh salad drizzled lightly with vinaigrette dressing—a perfect balance between richness!

Summary

In summary, preparing a flavorful Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Green Beans involves avoiding common mistakes like overcooking chicken and skimping on seasonings. Use tips such as marinating chicken and blanching vegetables for enhanced taste and presentation. Consider pairing this dish with rice or roasted veggies for a complete meal experience while storing leftovers properly ensures enjoyment throughout the week!

 

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