Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe moment I introduced lemon and garlic into my kitchen routine, a whole new world of flavor ignited. It was pure magic when I first combined them in this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet. This one-skillet wonder is the answer to busy weeknights, as it’s quick to whip up and immensely satisfying. Imagine juicy chicken thighs bathed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, perfectly complemented by crisp green beans. With its low-carb profile, this dish ticks all the right boxes for those seeking a wholesome yet indulgent meal. Plus, who doesn’t love a recipe that leaves only one pan to clean? Ready to treat yourself to a delicious dining experience at home? Let’s get started! Why is This Skillet Recipe a Must-Try? Simplicity at its core: With just one skillet and minimal prep, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time. Versatile ingredients: Feel free to swap green beans for other veggies like asparagus or broccoli, making it adaptable to your tastes. Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or impressing friends without the fuss of complex cooking techniques. Low-carb delight: Enjoy a satisfying meal that complements your keto or paleo lifestyle while still being indulgent and full of flavor. Quick clean-up: Say goodbye to piles of dishes; this recipe makes tidying up a breeze, leaving you extra time to relax after your meal. Discover more easy recipes like my Garlic Butter Steak or try the aromatic Indian Butter Chicken for a delightful twist! Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Ingredients • Unlock the flavors of this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet with these essentials! For the Chicken Chicken Thighs – Preferred skin-on for a crispy, juicy texture. Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor; adjust to your preference. For the Sauce Butter – Adds rich flavor; you can use olive oil for a dairy-free option. Garlic – Fresh garlic is best for a strong aromatic punch. Onion Powder – Enhances savory depth; fresh onions can be substituted. Paprika – Mild spice and color; smoked paprika introduces a deeper flavor. Crushed Red Chili Flakes – Adds a touch of heat; omit for a milder taste. Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish; freshly squeezed juice is ideal. Chicken Stock – Moistens and enriches the sauce; opt for low-sodium. For the Green Beans Green Beans – Adds crunch and vibrant color; use fresh or frozen. For Garnish Fresh Parsley – Bright, fresh flavor and color; dried parsley can work in a pinch. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear. Then, in a medium bowl, combine the onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix the seasonings well, ensuring the chicken will be richly flavored. This step sets the foundation for a delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet. Step 2: Season the Chicken Generously rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure every surface is coated. This ensures that the flavors penetrate the meat while it cooks. Once seasoned, let the chicken sit for a few minutes to help the spices adhere and activate their flavors, preparing it for an even tastier result. Step 3: Prepare the Green Beans While the chicken is resting, prepare the green beans. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water and cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate. Microwave on high for about 8–10 minutes, until the beans are just tender but still vibrant in color. This step will keep them crunchy and fresh, balancing perfectly with the richness of the chicken. Step 4: Brown the Chicken Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-low heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down into the skillet. Cook for 5–6 minutes without moving them, allowing a lovely golden crust to form. Flip the thighs and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked through. Step 5: Cook the Aromatics After browning, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter, followed by minced garlic, hot sauce, crushed chili flakes, and the precooked green beans. Sauté everything together for about 2–3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the green beans are heated through, creating a delicious blend of flavors. Step 6: Make the Sauce Add fresh lemon juice and chicken stock to the skillet. Stir well, allowing the mixture to bubble gently. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes, reducing the sauce slightly. This step will infuse the green beans with a zesty flavor while creating a luscious sauce that will coat the chicken beautifully when added back. Step 7: Combine and Finish Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce and green beans. Briefly heat the chicken for an additional 1–2 minutes, ensuring it is warmed through. As this finishes, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as desired. The Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet should be rich and fragrant, ready to serve. Step 8: Serve and Garnish Once everything is perfectly heated and seasoned, serve the delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet warm. For an added touch, garnish with a sprinkle of crushed red chili flakes and freshly chopped parsley, along with lemon slices on the side. This completes a vibrant, wholesome meal that is visually appealing and utterly satisfying. Make Ahead Options These Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet dishes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken thighs and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Additionally, the green beans can be blanched and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain their vibrant color and crunch. When you’re ready to cook, simply brown the chicken thighs as instructed, then heat the prepped green beans with the sauce ingredients. This gives you a satisfying, homemade meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights, ensuring that dinner is just as delicious as if you made everything from scratch! Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Variations Feel free to explore these enticing adaptations and make this recipe your own! Vegetable Swap: Replace green beans with asparagus or broccoli for a fresh twist. Each brings its unique texture and flavor to keep things exciting. Lean Protein: Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a lighter dish. Just be sure to shorten cooking time to prevent dryness. Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil to elevate the flavor profile. A touch of freshness can transform the dish entirely. Extra Veggies: Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for more variety. They’ll absorb the rich sauce, creating a delightful mix of flavors with every bite. Spice It Up: For an extra kick, include jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Adjust the heat level to match your taste preferences and take it to the next level. Citrus Burst: Swap lemon juice for lime juice or even orange juice for a zesty variation. Each will bring its distinct sweetness and acidity for a fun flavor twist. Nutty Flavor: Try adding a sprinkle of toasted almonds or walnuts on top for a delightful crunch. This texture contrast can make your dish more exciting and satisfying. Make it Sweet: Drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements in this dish. For another delicious chicken recipe, don’t miss my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves or indulge in the flavors of Honey Butter Chicken for more culinary inspiration! What to Serve with Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet? Imagine a cozy family dinner, where every mouthful bursts with refreshing lemon and aromatic garlic, perfectly paired with delightful sides that enhance the meal. Creamy Mashed Cauliflower: Silky and low-carb, this mash absorbs the rich, buttery sauce beautifully, making each bite heavenly. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and warm, these are perfect for sopping up every drop of the flavorful sauce, adding a comforting touch to your meal. Quinoa Salad: A light and nutty contrast, the fresh veggies in the salad provide a crisp texture that balances the rich chicken and beans. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and slightly caramelized, they add an earthy flavor that beautifully complements the vibrancy of the lemon garlic sauce. Cauliflower Rice: A fantastic low-carb alternative, it’s a great base for soaking up the delicious sauce while adding a delightful texture. Chilled White Wine: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc brings a crisp, refreshing note, enhancing the dish’s brightness and making it feel like a special occasion. Lemon Sorbet: End the meal on a light note with this frozen treat, offering a refreshing citrus finish that echoes the main dish’s flavors. Grilled Asparagus: Charred and tender, they introduce a smoky depth that pairs wonderfully with the bright notes of the chicken. Expert Tips for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Pat the Chicken Dry: For a perfect sear, always pat your chicken thighs dry before seasoning; this prevents steaming and enhances browning. Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking time varies with thigh thickness. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure safety. Control the Heat: If the chicken browns too quickly, reduce the heat. You want a golden crust, not burnt chicken. Layer Flavors: Don’t skip sautéing the garlic; letting it become fragrant releases its essential oils, making your chicken even more flavorful. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor in your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet; bottled juice lacks that zing. Versatile Veggies: Feel free to mix it up by adding other veggies to your skillet; just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly for optimal crunch. How to Store and Freeze Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation. Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Transfer to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s well-sealed. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results. Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to maintain moisture. Heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for food safety. Explanation: Always remember to label your containers with the date for easy tracking. This way, you can enjoy your delicious chicken dish even after a busy week! Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe and fresh ingredients for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing chicken thighs, look for those that are plump and have a vibrant pink color with no unpleasant odors. For green beans, select ones that are bright green and firm, avoiding any that are discolored or have dark spots all over. Fresh garlic should be dry and have tight skin, while lemons should feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. How should I store leftovers from the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet? Very! Leftover Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water for moisture. Can I freeze the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet? Absolutely! To freeze, let the skillet cool completely, then transfer the chicken and green beans to a freezer-safe container. Make sure it’s well-sealed and label it with the date. It can remain in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming it up on the stovetop until heated through. What should I do if my chicken isn’t browning correctly? If your chicken isn’t browning as expected, the likely culprits are excess moisture or too high heat. Always pat your chicken thighs dry before seasoning to encourage browning. If it’s taking too long to brown, check your heat setting; lowering it can help achieve the desired golden crust without burning the chicken. You want a nice, beautiful golden color to develop! Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Of course! This dish is low-carb and keto-friendly, making it suitable for those on these diets. Additionally, if you’re lactose-intolerant or following a dairy-free diet, you can easily substitute butter with olive oil or coconut oil. Just ensure no one in your household is allergic to chicken or any of the spices you plan to use. Always check ingredient labels for any potential allergens, such as gluten in certain stocks or sauces. Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet Delight No ratings yet This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet combines juicy chicken thighs in a rich sauce with bright lemon and garlic flavors, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 380 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces Chicken Thighs Preferred skin-on for a crispy, juicy texture.to taste Salt Essential for enhancing the overall flavor.to taste Pepper Essential for enhancing the overall flavor.For the Sauce4 tablespoons Butter Adds rich flavor; you can use olive oil for a dairy-free option.4 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is best for a strong aromatic punch.1 teaspoon Onion Powder Enhances savory depth; fresh onions can be substituted.1 teaspoon Paprika Mild spice and color; smoked paprika introduces a deeper flavor.1 teaspoon Crushed Red Chili Flakes Adds a touch of heat; omit for a milder taste.2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Brightens the dish; freshly squeezed juice is ideal.1 cup Chicken Stock Moistens and enriches the sauce; opt for low-sodium.For the Green Beans1 pound Green Beans Adds crunch and vibrant color; use fresh or frozen.For Garnishto taste Fresh Parsley Bright, fresh flavor and color; dried parsley can work in a pinch. Equipment cast iron skilletMicrowaveMixing Bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.Combine onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl and mix well.Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring every surface is coated.Let the chicken sit for a few minutes to help the spices adhere.Prepare the green beans by microwaving them in a bowl with a splash of water for about 8–10 minutes.Heat the skillet over medium-low heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter.Once the butter has melted, place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down into the skillet.Cook for 5–6 minutes, then flip and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).Remove the chicken and add the remaining butter, garlic, hot sauce, chili flakes, and green beans to the skillet.Sauté together for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant.Add lemon juice and chicken stock, stirring well and letting it simmer for about 2 minutes.Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce and green beans.Heat for an additional 1–2 minutes, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.Serve warm, garnished with crushed red chili flakes, parsley, and lemon slices. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 30gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesAlways pat chicken dry for a perfect sear. Cooking time may vary; check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
