Garlic Lemon Chicken with Green Beans
Garlic Lemon Chicken with Green Beans
Garlic Lemon Chicken with Green Beans is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, fresh green beans, and a zesty lemon-garlic sauce. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Why Make This Recipe
This dish is a great choice for several reasons. First, it is packed with flavor thanks to the combination of garlic and lemon. The freshness of the green beans adds a perfect crunch, balancing out the tenderness of the chicken. Additionally, it is a healthy option as it includes lean protein and vibrant vegetables. If you’re looking for a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on taste, Garlic Lemon Chicken with Green Beans is sure to please both your taste buds and your guests.
How to Make Garlic Lemon Chicken with Green Beans
Making Garlic Lemon Chicken with Green Beans is straightforward and requires minimal time. Here’s how to prepare this flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Let it melt.
- After the butter has melted, add the minced garlic, sautéing it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
- Next, toss in the trimmed green beans and sauté them for 4-5 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
- Squeeze the lemon juice over the green beans, add the lemon zest, and mix everything well.
- Return the chicken to the skillet to warm it back up and allow it to soak in the delicious flavors for a minute.
- Finally, garnish the dish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Garlic Lemon Chicken with Green Beans
To serve Garlic Lemon Chicken with Green Beans, place a chicken breast on a plate and add a generous portion of the sautéed green beans beside it. You can also serve this dish with a side of rice or quinoa for a more filling meal. The fresh parsley enhances the presentation and brings out the flavors beautifully.
How to Store Garlic Lemon Chicken with Green Beans
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Tips to Make Garlic Lemon Chicken with Green Beans
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a couple of hours before cooking.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken; this helps to achieve a nice sear.
- Don’t overcook the green beans; they should be bright green and crisp.
Variation
You can switch up the green beans for other vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Feel free to experiment with different herbs too, such as rosemary or basil for added flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will work just as well and provide a juicier texture.
2. What can I serve with Garlic Lemon Chicken?
This dish pairs nicely with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
3. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs will enhance the flavor even more; just remember to use more since they are less concentrated than dried ones.
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Lemon Chicken with Green Beans! It’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Garlic Lemon Chicken with Green Beans
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 whole lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste Salt
- to taste pepper
For the Green Beans
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toss in the trimmed green beans and sauté for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Squeeze the lemon juice over the green beans, add lemon zest, and mix well.
- Return the chicken to the skillet to warm it back up and allow it to soak in the flavors for a minute.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
