This Garlic Butter Chicken with Green Beans is a quick and tasty dish. The chicken is juicy, and the green beans are nice and crisp, all flavored with delicious garlic butter!
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this meal in one pan. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and cleanup is a breeze! Who doesn’t love that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs give this dish tenderness and flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work well too. Another great substitute is tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, sweet paprika or regular paprika can work, but they won’t have that smoky taste. You could also use red pepper flakes for some heat!
Bacon: Chopped bacon or pancetta brings a savory crunch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try turkey bacon or omit it altogether. The meal is still delicious without meat!
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are easy to find and cook quickly. If they’re not available, you can use snap peas or frozen green beans. Just cook frozen beans for a shorter time.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be a challenge. Here are some tips to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- Start by ensuring your chicken is patted dry. This helps it brown nicely.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat before adding the chicken. This will create a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the chicken space to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer for best results. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Following these tips will help you create succulent chicken that pairs perfectly with the vibrant green beans and garlic butter.
Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
For the Green Beans:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup chopped bacon or pancetta (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes. That includes around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This step helps it sear beautifully. Generously season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika—this adds a lovely depth of flavor!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, preferably cast iron, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken and cook until it’s golden brown and cooked through—about 6-7 minutes per side. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. When melted, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, which takes about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
4. Cook the Bacon and Green Beans:
If you’re using bacon, add it to the pan and cook until it’s crispy. Then toss in the green beans and lemon slices. Make sure everything is well mixed and coated in that yummy garlic butter.
5. Season the Green Beans:
Sprinkle the thyme leaves over the green beans and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender yet still crisp. You want that nice bite!
6. Combine Chicken and Green Beans:
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it amid the green beans and lemon slices. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and spoon it over the chicken, letting it melt and coat all the flavors together.
7. Final Cooking:
Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and warms the chicken through.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of freshness and color. Now it’s ready to serve!
Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans, a perfect balanced meal with rich garlic butter, tender chicken, and crisp-tender green beans!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thoroughly thaw it beforehand. The best way to do this is to leave the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Green Beans?
If fresh green beans aren’t available, you can use snap peas or broccoli as an alternative. Frozen green beans work too! Just be sure to cook them for a shorter time to avoid overcooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to help steam the chicken and keep it juicy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the chicken and garlic mixture ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the remaining steps and enjoy a quick, delicious meal!
