Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

Name: Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet : Learn How To Make The Most Delicious Meal Ever
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 – 6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs; 1 pound (450g) green beans, trimmed; 3 tablespoons butter, divided (or ghee for paleo diet); 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste; Juice of 1/2 lemon + lemon slices for garnish; 1/2 cup (125ml) chicken stock; 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Sriracha); 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes, optional; 1/2 cup fresh chopped parsley

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Introduction

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet—just saying it out loud is enough to get your taste buds tingling, right? This meal is proof that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be absolutely delicious. Whether you’re juggling a busy work week, feeding a hungry family, or simply looking to add more healthy recipes to your rotation, this dish checks every box.

So, what’s the story behind this recipe and why should it be your next go-to dinner? Well, the whole idea for this blog started from my own kitchen adventures, searching for recipes that made the most of simple, real ingredients—meals that anyone could master, no matter their skill level. I wanted to create a space where home cooks could find inspiration without feeling overwhelmed by fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. That’s exactly what you get with this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet: easy steps, big flavors, and results that make you look like a total pro.

This isn’t just another chicken dinner—it’s a vibrant, zesty meal that brings together tender chicken thighs, crisp green beans, and a silky, lemony garlic butter sauce. Every bite is packed with flavor, and the best part? It all happens in one skillet, saving you loads of time on cleanup. So grab your cast iron pan, crank up your favorite playlist, and get ready for a dish that’ll become a staple in your home.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Quick and Easy Prep

Let’s be honest, nobody wants to spend hours in the kitchen after a long day. This recipe comes together in under 40 minutes from start to finish. All you need is a handful of pantry staples, fresh chicken thighs, and green beans. There’s no complicated prep work or fancy gadgets required. Just a few smart steps and you’ll have dinner on the table before you know it.

Bursting with Flavor

If you love bold, bright flavors, this dish will not disappoint! The combination of lemon juice, fresh garlic, and rich butter creates a sauce that’s equal parts tangy, savory, and downright addictive. Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika and just a dash of hot sauce (don’t worry, it’s not too spicy!), and you have a meal that’s truly unforgettable. Plus, the fresh parsley at the end adds a hit of freshness that keeps every bite exciting.

Healthy and Hearty

You don’t have to choose between eating well and eating deliciously. This recipe gives you plenty of protein, fiber from the green beans, and good-for-you fats—all while keeping things lower in carbs and totally gluten-free. It’s an ideal meal if you’re following a paleo, keto, or low-carb lifestyle, and you can always tweak the ingredients to fit your needs.

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

Chicken thighs searing in cast iron skillet for garlic butter recipe

When it comes to creating that perfect skillet dinner, fresh, simple ingredients make all the difference. Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need for this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet. Trust me, this is the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again—and with ingredients this easy, you totally can.

The Chicken: Choosing the Best Thighs

Start with 3 to 6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs. Why thighs? They’re juicy, full of flavor, and super forgiving—even if you get distracted by that group text mid-cook. You can also use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option, but thighs will give you that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Want more chicken inspiration? Check out all our Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken recipes for more twists on this classic flavor combo!

Why Fresh Green Beans Matter

Green beans bring crunch, color, and plenty of nutrition to your skillet. You’ll want about a pound (450g), trimmed and ready to go. Choose beans that are bright green and snap easily for the freshest taste. If you’re crazy about green beans like we are, you’ll love browsing our full Green Beans Skillet collection for more ways to serve this underrated veggie.

Want more ideas for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet? Explore our full collection of Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken recipes for even more inspiration to spice up your next Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet!

Why Fresh Green Beans Matter in Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

Green beans are a must for the best Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet. Use about a pound (450g) of fresh, trimmed green beans for your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet. The crunch, color, and nutrition that green beans bring to Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet can’t be beat. Always look for beans that are bright green and snap easily for your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet.

Obsessed with green beans in your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet? Don’t miss our Green Beans Skillet collection for more creative ways to enjoy Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet.

The Role of Lemon, Garlic, and Butter

The real magic in this dish comes from the combination of lemon, garlic, and butter. To make it, you’ll need:

3 tablespoons butter (or ghee for a paleo option)
4 cloves garlic, freshly minced
Juice of half a lemon, plus a few slices for garnish

Butter adds a rich, silky base. Garlic brings an irresistible aroma and depth, while fresh lemon juice brightens every bite. When these flavors come together, you get a simple, vibrant chicken and green bean skillet that’s both comforting and fresh.arlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet absolutely crave-worthy.

Spices and Aromatics in Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

A handful of spices round out the flavors in Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet:

1 teaspoon paprika, essential for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
1 teaspoon onion powder for extra depth in Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
1/4 teaspoon salt for seasoning your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
Fresh cracked black pepper for boldness in Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

Plus, in your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet, add:

1/2 cup (125ml) chicken stock for juicy, tender Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Sriracha) for a hint of heat in your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes (optional, for spice lovers who enjoy Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet)
1/2 cup fresh chopped parsley for color and flavor in Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

If you love comfort food, you’ll find more ways to enjoy butter chicken in our Butter Chicken recipes—all delicious and perfect for your next Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet night!

Essential Tools and Kitchen Tips for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

Mastering Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet doesn’t require fancy gadgets, but a few tools and pro tips make your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet even better.

The Best Skillet to Use for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

A large cast iron skillet is ideal for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet. Cast iron gives your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet that unbeatable sear and flavor. Don’t have cast iron? Use a nonstick or stainless-steel skillet for your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet—just don’t overcrowd the pan.

Prepping Your Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

For an effortless Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet experience, follow these tips:

Pat chicken thighs dry with a paper towel before seasoning your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet—it helps them brown.
Trim green beans evenly for the best cooked texture in Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet.
Mince garlic fresh for your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet to get bold, aromatic flavor.
Measure out spices ahead, so you can add them quickly to your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet.

Little steps like these make you feel (and cook) like a total kitchen boss when preparing Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet!

Step-by-Step Recipe Directions for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

Fresh green beans prepped for skillet recipe

1. Seasoning the Chicken for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

Start by getting your chicken ready for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet greatness. Pat your chicken thighs dry with a paper towel—this helps your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet get a golden-brown crust.
Next, mix paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, then rub the blend all over the chicken. Let the chicken sit so your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet absorbs the full flavor.

2. Pre-cooking the Green Beans for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

While your chicken is marinating, it’s time to prep green beans for your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet.
Place the green beans in a microwave-safe dish, add water, cover, and microwave for 8–10 minutes. You want them almost cooked but still snappy for the perfect Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet texture.

3. Cooking the Chicken Thighs for Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

Now it’s skillet time!
Heat your skillet over medium-low heat and add two tablespoons of butter. When melted, add the seasoned chicken thighs to your skillet for this recipe.
Cook undisturbed until you get a golden crust. Flip and cook through—remember, perfectly cooked chicken is the key to amazing the Lemon Garlic recipe. side, until the thighs are cooked through (an instant-read thermometer should register 165°F/75°C at the thickest part). If the chicken is browning too quickly, turn the heat down a bit. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm.

4. Making the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Without cleaning the skillet, lower the heat and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Next, add the chopped parsley, hot sauce, and red chili flakes (if you’re using them). Stir well, then add the pre-cooked green beans back to the skillet. Sauté everything for 4–5 minutes, stirring regularly, until the beans are cooked to your liking.

Pour in the juice of half a lemon and the chicken stock. Let the sauce bubble away for 2–3 minutes, reducing slightly so it gets nice and rich.

5. Bringing It All Together

Now for the grand finale!
Push the green beans to the side, nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, and spoon that luscious lemon garlic butter sauce all over. Warm everything through for another minute or two, then hit it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a few extra lemon slices, and a dusting of chili flakes if you like a little heat.

Serve the dish straight from the skillet for maximum comfort-food vibes!

Chef’s Secrets: Tips for the Best Skillet Chicken

Avoiding Dry Chicken

The number one trick is not to overcook your chicken thighs! Use a thermometer for perfectly juicy meat every time. Remember, they’re done at 165°F (75°C).

Getting Crispy, Golden Skin

Patting the chicken dry and letting it sear undisturbed are the secret weapons for crispy edges. Also, don’t overcrowd the skillet—give the thighs some space!

Balancing Flavors with Lemon

Lemon is a game-changer here. Taste the sauce at the end and add a little more lemon juice if you want an extra zing, or dial it back for a milder profile. The acid really makes all the flavors pop!

Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations

Plated Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with side salad and bread

Once you’ve mastered this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet, you’ll find it’s the kind of dish that easily adapts to whatever you have on hand—and whatever your family craves. Here’s how to make it your own, plus what to serve on the side for a well-rounded meal.

What to Serve with This Skillet Meal

This dish is so packed with flavor and protein that it often stands alone, but a few smart sides can take it from “delicious dinner” to “company-worthy feast.” Here are some of our favorites:

Steamed Rice or Cauliflower Rice: The buttery lemon sauce is made for soaking up with something starchy. Cauliflower rice keeps things low-carb.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Super cozy, and a perfect match for the sauce.
Crusty Bread: If you’re not counting carbs, this is the ultimate way to mop up every drop of that garlicky goodness.
Simple Salad: Mixed greens with a lemony vinaigrette complement the rich flavors and keep things fresh.

If you’re looking for even more skillet chicken inspiration, check out this mouthwatering Skillet Chicken collection for bold flavors and weeknight favorites.

Paleo, Keto, and Dairy-Free Options

Want to make this dish work for your eating style? No problem—here’s how to tweak it:

Paleo: Simply swap the butter for ghee or a good-quality olive oil.
Keto: This dish is naturally low in carbs, but make sure your hot sauce and chicken stock are sugar-free for strict keto.
Dairy-Free: Use olive oil or coconut oil in place of butter. You’ll still get amazing flavor!

You can also substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid dryness. Or, for something completely different, try boneless pork chops or even shrimp—the lemon garlic butter sauce works on just about anything!

Making It a Full Meal: Add-Ons

If you want to bulk up the meal or add a pop of color, here are a few easy add-ins:

Cherry tomatoes: Toss them in for the last few minutes of cooking for sweetness and color.
Baby potatoes: Slice thin and add to the skillet after searing the chicken (add a splash more stock if needed).
Bell peppers: Great for crunch and extra nutrition.

Want to explore more comfort food classics? Don’t miss these crave-worthy Butter Chicken recipes that take creamy, spiced chicken to a whole new level.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Tips

Busy week? Here’s how to get ahead:

Pre-chop everything: Green beans, garlic, and parsley can all be prepped the night before.
Marinate the chicken: Rub the seasoning on your chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. More flavor, less last-minute stress!
Leftovers: This skillet meal reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken stock to keep it juicy.

Troubleshooting: Common Cooking Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Chicken Too Dry?

Make sure you don’t overcook it! Use a thermometer to check doneness, and pull the chicken from the pan right at 165°F. If you do end up with dry chicken, serve it with extra sauce to help moisten it up.

Sauce Too Thin or Too Thick?

If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer a few minutes longer to reduce and thicken. If it’s too thick, simply add a splash of chicken stock, water, or lemon juice until you reach your desired consistency.

Green Beans Overcooked?

Green beans can go soft quickly, so keep an eye on them. If you like a little crunch, undercook them slightly in the microwave and let them finish in the skillet. If they do get soft, don’t worry—the flavor will still be delicious!

Conclusion: Why Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet Deserves a Spot in Your Weekly Meal Plan

After making this Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet just once, it’s easy to see why it earns a spot in any regular meal rotation. It’s the kind of dish that feels special enough for company, but is quick enough for a weeknight. With juicy, flavorful chicken, bright green beans, and a lemony, buttery sauce that ties it all together, this recipe delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

The real beauty of this skillet meal is its flexibility. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, feeding a family, or just want something quick and healthy, this dish has you covered. No fancy ingredients, no complicated steps—just honest, delicious food made with love.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to leave a comment, share your own variations, or explore more easy skillet dinners and bold chicken ideas. Your next favorite dinner is just a skillet away!

Frequently Asked Questions: Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Just swap the butter for olive oil, avocado oil, or your favorite dairy-free butter alternative. The flavor will be slightly different, but you’ll still get that great lemon-garlic punch.

What can I use instead of Sriracha?

You can use any hot sauce you like or simply leave it out if you prefer a milder dish. Crushed red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne, or even a dash of smoked paprika can add a gentle heat without overwhelming the lemon garlic flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken and green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken stock or water to keep everything moist and juicy. For best flavor and texture, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer a leaner cut. Just keep in mind that chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily. Pound them to even thickness for best results, and be careful not to overcook—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

What is heavy cream?

Heavy cream, also called heavy whipping cream, is a dairy product with a higher fat content (about 36–40%). It’s often used to add richness and creaminess to sauces, soups, and desserts. This particular skillet recipe doesn’t require heavy cream, but if you want a thicker, richer sauce, you could add a splash at the end. Just remember it will make the dish extra decadent!

Is this freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet freezes pretty well, though for best results, freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the green beans. After cooking, let everything cool completely. Store in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently in a skillet over low heat. The green beans might lose a bit of their snap, but the flavors will still be spot on!