Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is my go-to when I want something bright and decadent but still all-in-one and easy. The butter and lemon together make the chicken incredibly juicy, and the green beans soak up all the flavorful sauce. It is a crowd-pleaser and such a comfort meal.

I threw this together on a weeknight when I was short on time and now it is requested every time my parents come to visit. The sauce just makes you want to mop your plate with bread.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: They cook quickly and absorb flavors well Look for pieces that are equally thick for even cooking
• Salt: Seasons the chicken and brings out natural juiciness Use fine sea salt for best flavor
• Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth Freshly cracked is best for aroma
• Paprika: Lends subtle smokiness and a golden color Smoked paprika can add even more depth
• Garlic powder: Ensures the chicken has a rich all-over garlic flavor Pick a fresh jar for full potency
• Onion powder: Layers in more savoriness This rounds out the seasoning blend
• Olive oil: Aids browning and adds a bit of richness Choose extra virgin for added flavor
• Butter: Intensifies the sauce and richness Real butter is key here
• Fresh green beans: They hold up well in the skillet and keep their crunch Look for vibrant green beans with no wrinkles
• Minced garlic: Infuses the pan and green beans with robust aroma Use freshly minced for best punch
• Red pepper flakes: Offers a little heat to the beans Optional if you like a bit of spice
• Chicken broth: Provides body and savoriness to the sauce Use low sodium so you can control the salt
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the whole dish Go for freshly squeezed for best flavor
• Italian seasoning: Brings herbs for classic Mediterranean notes Dried blends work well
• Lemon slices and chopped parsley: Finishes the skillet with sparkle and color Make sure your parsley is bright green and fresh

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep and Season Chicken:

Pat chicken dry then season both sides generously with salt black pepper paprika garlic powder and onion powder This step ensures chicken gets maximum flavor in every bite

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium high Get the pan hot before adding chicken Place the seasoned chicken in and let it sear untouched for about five to six minutes until the underside is golden Flip and cook the other side until fully done and juices run clear Set aside on a plate while you move on

Sauté the Green Beans:

In the same pan add butter and minced garlic Stir constantly for about thirty seconds until the garlic smells nutty but does not brown Add the trimmed green beans and a pinch of salt pepper and red pepper flakes Stir fry them for three to four minutes Toss often until bright green and cooked but still a little crisp at the center

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:

Add more butter to the skillet Let it melt then pour in the fresh lemon juice and chicken broth Scatter in Italian seasoning Let the sauce gently bubble for two or three minutes on low heat which brings all the flavors together

Combine and Finish:

Return the seared chicken and green beans to the pan Move them around to get everything coated in the lemony sauce Let them simmer all together for two minutes so the flavors marry

Garnish and Serve:

Finish by scattering over fresh parsley and lemon slices Serve straight from the skillet for dramatic effect

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My favorite ingredient in here might be the fresh lemon juice The first time I made this my husband said the bright flavor totally transformed the simple chicken and it felt like restaurant food at home

We laugh now because my son always sneaks extra green beans out of the pan before dinner is served

Storage Tips

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to bring back the sauciness The chicken stays moist from the butter so it is delicious even as leftovers

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have fresh green beans you can use asparagus or broccoli cut into bite size pieces Chicken thighs work just as well as breasts Add a little white wine to the sauce for extra depth or swap Italian seasoning for freshly chopped basil or thyme

Serving Suggestions

This skillet dish shines when spooned over buttery mashed potatoes or a simple rice pilaf A chunk of crusty bread will ensure not a drop of lemon butter sauce goes to waste For a lighter meal I like a green salad with a sharp vinaigrette alongside

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Cultural Context

Dishes like this bring together the bright acidity from Mediterranean flavors and the classic seared chicken techniques used in home cooking worldwide The lemon and parsley combo is found all over southern Europe and translates well to American dinner tables

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Pat the chicken dry and sear over medium-high heat without overcrowding. Let it rest before slicing for optimal juiciness.

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but thaw and pat them dry first to avoid excess moisture. Cook a bit longer to maintain a tender-crisp texture.

→ Is it possible to substitute chicken thighs?

Absolutely. Thighs bring extra flavor and remain moist. Adjust cook time slightly as needed based on thickness.

→ What pairs well as a side?

Steamed rice, garlicky mashed potatoes, or roasted potatoes complement the bright flavors beautifully.

→ Can I make this ahead?

Yes. Prepare and store components separately. Reheat gently in a skillet and finish with fresh lemon and parsley for best taste.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Omit or increase red pepper flakes to control heat. Add extra garlic for a more robust flavor.