After a long day at work, I often crave something quick yet absolutely satisfying for dinner. That’s when I discovered the magic of my One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet with Green Beans. Picture this: juicy chicken thighs seasoned to perfection, bathing in the fragrant essence of garlic and bright lemon, all while crisp-tender green beans sip up the zesty goodness. This dish not only elevates a standard weeknight meal but also makes cleanup a breeze—all cooked in a single skillet!
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook looking for a new favorite or someone just dipping your toes into the culinary waters, this recipe will bring a burst of flavor to your table without the fuss. It’s perfect for families and anyone needing a healthy, protein-packed dinner option that doesn’t skimp on taste. So grab your skillet, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to please everyone around your dinner table!
Why love Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken?
Simplicity defined: This one-pan wonder requires little prep time, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Flavor explosion: The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic elevates the chicken thighs to a gourmet level while green beans add a delightful crunch.
Health-conscious: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a nutritious meal option without compromising on taste.
Easy cleanup: With everything cooked in a single skillet, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
Family-friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will be drawn to the mouthwatering aromas and vibrant colors, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy!
For more delicious options that save time while maximizing flavor, check out our quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Choose thighs for a juicier flavor and tender texture that pairs beautifully with the zesty sauce.
• Butter – Adds richness and aids in browning the chicken; for a lactose-free alternative, use olive oil instead.
• Garlic powder – Offers a deep, savory flavor; feel free to substitute with fresh minced garlic for a more intense taste.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor; adjust to your preference or try a lower-sodium version.
• Ground black pepper – Provides just the right amount of heat; freshly ground pepper yields the best taste.
For the Sauce
• Fresh garlic, minced – Delivers a vibrant, aromatic quality; if unavailable, garlic paste can stand in nicely.
• Fresh lemon juice – Brightens the dish and balances the flavors; while bottled lemon juice is acceptable, fresh is always best.
• Chopped fresh parsley – A delightful garnish that adds freshness; in a pinch, dried parsley can be used if fresh isn’t on hand.
For the Green Beans
• Whole green beans, frozen – Convenient and nutritious, these add a crunchy contrast; swap with fresh green beans for a slightly different texture.
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Recipe with Green Beans is an unforgettable, flavorful dish that everyone will remember. Enjoy the deliciousness!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Heat the Skillet: Start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the butter to foam before moving on to the next step, setting a flavorful base for the chicken.
Season the Chicken: Generously sprinkle both sides of the boneless, skinless chicken thighs with garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper. This blend will enhance the flavor while keeping the chicken tender.
Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes, allowing a golden crust to form. This step is crucial for a juicy and succulent finish.
Add Aromatics: Drizzle half of the fresh lemon juice over the chicken thighs. Sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped fresh parsley around the meat, then carefully flip the chicken to cook the other side.
Simmer with Green Beans: Pour the remaining lemon juice over the chicken. Add the frozen whole green beans around the chicken in the skillet. Cover with a lid and let it cook for 6 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
Finish the Green Beans: For extra tenderness, remove the chicken after cooking, and cover the green beans for an additional 2-3 minutes in the hot skillet. This softens them while keeping their vibrant color.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Feel free to get creative with this dish and make it your own!
Chicken Thighs: Swap in bone-in, skin-on thighs for extra richness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time for perfect tenderness.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus alongside the green beans for a colorful veggie boost. This adds more texture and nutritional variety to your meal.
Herb Swap: Try using fresh basil or thyme instead of parsley to change up the aromatic profile. Each herb will lend a completely new personality to the dish!
Citrus Twist: Replace lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a refreshing citrus variation. This subtle change can make the dish feel entirely new while still keeping that bright flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a gentle heat boost. This variation is great for those who enjoy a little spice in their meals.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine if you’re looking for a vegan option. The dish will still be delicious and satisfying!
Creamy Addition: Incorporate a splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt at the end of cooking for a rich, creamy sauce. This enhances the dish’s indulgence while balancing the zesty flavors.
Nutty Flavor: For an unexpected twist, sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts on top before serving. This adds a delightful crunch while enriching each bite with nutty goodness.
What to Serve with Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet with Green Beans?
A delightful meal awaits as you create the perfect pairing for your vibrant skillet dinner!
Fluffy Quinoa: Light and nutritious, quinoa complements the juicy chicken and provides a nutty flavor, absorbing all the lemon-garlic goodness.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Buttery and rich, mashed potatoes create a comforting contrast against the fresh, crisp green beans, making each bite satisfying.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fragrant and infused with herbs, a rice pilaf enhances the meal with subtle flavors that won’t overpower the zesty chicken.
Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing salad, loaded with crunchy veggies, offers a bright, crisp element that balances the richness of the chicken and beans.
Garlic Bread: Toasted and buttery, this classic side is perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce, adding an extra layer of comfort.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots and zucchini add a sweet, earthy touch, harmonizing beautifully with the vibrant flavors of your skillet dish.
Chilled White Wine: A light Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can elevate your meal, adding a crisp refreshment that pairs well with citrusy chicken.
Lemon Sorbet: For a light dessert, consider a zesty lemon sorbet, offering a refreshing end to your meal that echoes the bright flavors of your dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Recipe with Green Beans are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can season the chicken thighs and marinate them with the lemon juice, garlic, and spices up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover them in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. The green beans can also be trimmed and ready to go, stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, just heat your skillet, add the chicken, and follow the finishing steps as outlined. This way, your dinner will be just as delicious and full of flavor, but prepared with minimal effort on the night you’re serving it!
Expert Tips for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Pound for Consistency: Ensure chicken thighs are pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking and to avoid dryness.
Sear Well: Avoid flipping the chicken too early; a good sear locks in moisture and enhances flavor.
Verify Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs.
Fresh Is Best: Opt for fresh lemon juice and garlic when possible, as they provide a vibrant flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
Adjusting Beans: If you prefer your green beans tender, cover them for a few extra minutes after removing the chicken from the skillet.
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Fridge: Store leftover chicken and green beans in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat in a skillet to maintain moisture.
Freezer: Place cooled chicken thighs and green beans in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This method helps retain the dish’s juicy texture and flavor.
Portioning: For easy meal prep, consider dividing the dish into single-serving containers. This makes for a quick and delicious meal option on busy days.
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Recipe with Green Beans Recipe FAQs
How should I select and prepare the chicken thighs?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken thighs, look for those that are boneless and skinless, as they offer a juicier flavor and tender texture. I recommend ensuring they are of even thickness before cooking, which you can achieve by lightly pounding them between two sheets of plastic wrap. This ensures they cook evenly and don’t dry out.
What is the best way to store leftover Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to maintain their moisture and tenderness. The flavors will meld even more, making it taste just as delicious as the first time!
Can I freeze this dish, and if so, how?
Yes! To freeze your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Green Beans, first, let them cool completely. Then, place the chicken and green beans in a freezer-safe container or plastic freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating—this will preserve its flavor and texture beautifully.
What should I do if my chicken is sticking to the skillet?
Very often, chicken sticks due to not enough heat or moisture. Ensure your skillet is heated adequately and well-oiled before adding the chicken. If it’s still sticking, give it time to sear before attempting to flip it. Patience here pays off with a lovely golden crust!
Can this recipe be made with different vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is wonderfully versatile. If you’d like to incorporate other vegetables, consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even asparagus alongside the green beans. Just be mindful of the cooking time as different vegetables vary in tenderizing speed.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
While this dish is generally family-friendly, if you or your loved ones have allergies, be cautious with ingredients like butter or garlic. If you need a dairy-free option, olive oil works beautifully instead of butter. Always check your ingredient labels to ensure they align with dietary needs or preferences.
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs Recipe with Green Beans Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter.
- Season both sides of the chicken thighs with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook the chicken thighs undisturbed for about 4 minutes until a golden crust forms.
- Drizzle half of the lemon juice over the chicken, add minced garlic and parsley, then flip chicken.
- Pour remaining lemon juice over chicken, add green beans, cover, and cook for 6 minutes.
- Remove chicken and cover green beans for an additional 2-3 minutes.