There’s something so comforting about a one-pan meal—especially when it’s bursting with bright lemon, golden garlic, and tender chicken. I first made this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick but still felt like a warm hug on a plate. The sizzle of butter, the aroma of garlic filling the kitchen, and the vibrant green beans soaking up all those delicious juices… it’s pure magic. Best of all? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a weeknight hero in our house.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this cozy dish to life:

• Chicken breasts or thighs: I prefer thighs for extra juiciness, but breasts work beautifully too.
• Fresh green beans: Crisp and vibrant—they add the perfect crunch.
• Butter: Because everything tastes better with butter. I use unsalted to control the seasoning.
• Garlic: Freshly minced, please! It makes all the difference.
• Lemon: Both zest and juice for that bright, citrusy punch.
• Chicken broth: Just a splash to deglaze the pan and create a light sauce.
• Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick (optional, but delightful).

How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans

This dish comes together in just a few simple steps, but the flavors are anything but simple. Here’s how I make it:

1. Sear the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, then sear until golden brown on both sides. Don’t rush this step—those crispy edges add so much flavor! Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.
2. Sauté the green beans: In the same skillet, add the green beans and cook until they’re just starting to soften but still crisp-tender. A little char is a good thing here!
3. Make the garlic butter sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter, letting it melt into golden goodness. Toss in the minced garlic and stir until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Bring it all together: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the green beans. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan (that’s where the flavor lives!). Let everything simmer for a few minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened.
5. Finish with lemon zest: Right before serving, sprinkle fresh lemon zest over the top for an extra pop of brightness.

Tip: If your chicken is thick, you can cover the skillet for the last few minutes to help it cook through without drying out. And don’t forget to let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving—it keeps all those juices right where they belong.

There’s something so comforting about a one-pan meal that comes together effortlessly yet tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is exactly that—a cozy, flavorful dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into some tips and tricks to make it even more special!

Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken

• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a golden, crispy sear.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, zesty flavor—bottled just doesn’t compare.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. Give each piece space to brown properly.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few ways to switch it up:

• Protein swap: Try boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness, or even shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Veggie variations: Swap green beans for asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini—whatever’s in season!
• Dairy-free option: Replace butter with olive oil or ghee for a rich, buttery flavor without dairy.
• Herb boost: Stir in fresh parsley, thyme, or basil at the end for an extra layer of freshness.

What to Serve With Your Skillet

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but if you’d like to round it out, here are a few delicious pairings:

• Fluffy jasmine rice or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce.
• A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
• Crusty bread to mop up every last bit of that garlic butter goodness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep them tasting just as delicious:

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the meat.
• Freezing: While possible, the texture of the green beans may change slightly. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes! Just thaw and pat them dry before adding to the skillet to avoid excess moisture.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients in advance—just cook the chicken and green beans right before serving.

What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?
Any large, oven-safe skillet will work! Just ensure it can handle stovetop and oven temperatures.

There you have it—a simple, flavorful dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is sure to become a favorite. The combination of tangy lemon, rich garlic butter, and tender chicken is simply irresistible. Whip it up, savor every bite, and enjoy the cozy satisfaction of a meal made with love.