Lemon Garlic Chicken with Green Beans

Introduction

Welcome to a delightful recipe for lemon garlic chicken with green beans. This dish is bursting with flavor and is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. The combination of zesty lemon, savory garlic, tender chicken, and crisp green beans creates a mouthwatering meal that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delicious dish!

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 4 cloves of garlic, minced

– 2 lemons, juiced and zested

– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed

– Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Follow these simple steps to make lemon garlic chicken with green beans:

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Sautéing the Green Beans

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp. Remove the green beans from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Creating the Lemon Garlic Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and add the lemon juice and zest to the skillet. Stir well, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce has slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combining the Ingredients

Return the chicken breasts and green beans to the skillet with the lemon garlic sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring all the ingredients are coated with the flavorful sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Serving

Transfer the lemon garlic chicken with green beans to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh lemon slices or chopped parsley for an extra pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations

There are several ways to customize this lemon garlic chicken with green beans recipe to suit your taste:

– For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon garlic sauce.

– Enhance the dish with your favorite herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil.

– Add a handful of cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking for a burst of sweetness.

Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your lemon garlic chicken with green beans turns out perfectly:

– Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking to ensure they cook evenly.

– Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice as it may taste artificial.

– Don’t overcook the green beans, as they should retain their vibrant green color and crisp texture.

– Feel free to swap the green beans for other vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli if desired.

Conclusion

Lemon garlic chicken with green beans is a delightful and satisfying dish that brings together the bright flavors of lemon, the savory notes of garlic, and the freshness of green beans. With its simple steps and versatile nature, this recipe is a perfect addition to your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients and give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans if fresh ones are not available. However, keep in mind that frozen green beans may have a slightly softer texture.

2. Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.

3. How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.