One-Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet: Easy Weeknight Dinner

June 19, 2025

In the quest for a delicious, healthy, and easy weeknight dinner, the "one-pan wonder" often reigns supreme. Today, we're diving into a recipe that embodies all those qualities and more: the Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet. Imagine tender, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked crisp-tender green beans, all coated in a vibrant, zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. It’s a meal that feels gourmet but comes together in under 40 minutes with minimal cleanup!

Table of Contents

Why You'll Love This One-Pan Meal

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet isn't just another dinner; it's a game-changer for busy households. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your regular rotation:

Effortless Execution: Everything cooks in a single skillet, dramatically reducing post-dinner cleanup.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon, aromatic garlic, and rich butter creates an irresistible sauce that elevates simple ingredients.
Nutrient-Packed: Lean protein from chicken and essential vitamins from green beans make this a wholesome and balanced meal.
Quick & Convenient: From prep to plate, you're looking at less than 40 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will likely enjoy the savory chicken and bright flavors.

The Simple Ingredients You'll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry already!

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme

For the Green Beans:

1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:

4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For Garnish (Optional):

Fresh parsley
Lemon wedges

How to Master Your Skillet Dinner

Follow these straightforward steps to create a show-stopping meal:

Step 1: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the hot skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and thoroughly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add the trimmed green beans, the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are crisp-tender. Remove the green beans and set aside with the chicken.
Step 5: Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
Step 6: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and chopped fresh parsley.
Step 7: Return both the cooked chicken thighs and the green beans to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat with the lemon garlic butter sauce. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken and beans.
Step 8: Optional: Garnish with additional fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious meal!

Tips for a Perfect Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken

Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to ensure a good sear. Overcrowding can steam the chicken instead of browning it.
Internal Temperature: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference: Fresh lemon juice and zest, along with fresh garlic and parsley, will yield the best flavor.
Use a Good Skillet: A quality skillet (like a cast iron or heavy-bottomed stainless steel one) distributes heat evenly for optimal cooking.

Variations & Serving Suggestions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile! Feel free to customize it to your taste.

Add More Veggies: Consider adding cherry tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, or even blanched broccoli florets in with the green beans.
Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes added with the garlic can give it a nice kick.
Herb Swaps: If you don't have parsley, fresh dill or a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs would also be lovely.
Make it a Meal: Serve this skillet dish alongside fluffy rice, quinoa, or a simple pasta. For a lighter touch, pair it with a refreshing Fresh & Creamy Apple Salad. Another great option for a starter could be our delicious Spinach & Feta Patties.

Final Thoughts

There you have it – a simple yet sophisticated Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken & Green Beans Skillet that's sure to become a weeknight staple. It's proof that healthy, flavorful meals don't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Give this recipe a try and experience the joy of a truly satisfying home-cooked meal.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used as a substitute for thighs. Keep in mind that breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily, so adjust your cooking time accordingly and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165u00b0F (74u00b0C).

What other vegetables can I add to this skillet?

This recipe is very versatile! Asparagus, broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, or sliced bell peppers would all make fantastic additions. Add them alongside the green beans or slightly before, depending on their cooking time.

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How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, to make this dish dairy-free, simply substitute the unsalted butter with your favorite dairy-free butter alternative. The flavor profile will remain largely the same, delicious!