Name: Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup chicken broth, divided; 12 ounces fresh green beans; 1¼ teaspoons salt, divided; ½ teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil; 4-5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 4 cloves); 1 lemon, juiced; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 3 tablespoons butter; Fresh parsley, dill, lemon slices, red pepper flakes (for garnish, optional)

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Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a one-pan, 30-minute meal that combines tender, juicy chicken thighs and crisp green beans with a savory, buttery lemon-garlic sauce. Bursting with flavor and made using simple ingredients, this low-carb, keto-friendly dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner without sacrificing taste.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-skillet meal: Easy cleanup and minimal mess.
Full of flavor: A rich garlic butter sauce with zesty lemon brightens every bite.
Quick to make: Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
Nutritious: High in protein and fiber while being low in carbs.
Keto and low-carb friendly: No need for grains or starches.
Family-approved: Delicious and satisfying for all ages.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken broth
fresh green beans
salt
pepper
garlic powder
smoked paprika
olive oil or avocado oil
chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
lemon, juiced
red pepper flakes
butter
optional garnishes: fresh parsley, fresh dill, lemon slices, red pepper flakes

Directions

Steam the Green Beans:
Heat a large skillet (with a lid) over medium heat. Add ¼ cup of chicken broth and the green beans. Cover and steam for 5 minutes. Remove the lid and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the liquid evaporates. Remove green beans and set aside.
Season the Chicken:
In a small dish, combine 1 teaspoon salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season both sides with the spice blend.
Cook the Chicken:
Add oil to the same skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, place the chicken thighs flat in the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Transfer to the plate with the green beans.
Make the Sauce:
Turn heat to medium and deglaze the pan with the remaining ¼ cup of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Add minced garlic, lemon juice, ¼ teaspoon salt, and red pepper flakes. Simmer on low until the sauce reduces by half.
Add Butter and Combine:
Stir in the butter and cook for 1–2 minutes until melted and incorporated. Return the chicken and green beans to the skillet, gently mixing them with the sauce. Reheat for 2–3 minutes, if needed.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh herbs, lemon slices, and extra red pepper flakes, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use chicken breasts: Swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Add other veggies: Try asparagus, zucchini, or mushrooms for more variety.
Make it dairy-free: Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative.
Amp up the heat: Increase red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
Add cheese: Sprinkle with grated parmesan before serving.
Use ghee: For a richer, paleo-friendly flavor, use ghee instead of butter.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but they may release more moisture. Thaw and pat dry before steaming to avoid watering down the sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well. Store components separately if possible for best texture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just double-check that your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free.

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?

You can, but they’ll require a longer cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What sides go well with this dish?

Cauliflower rice, mashed cauliflower, or a light salad complement it well without adding carbs.

Can I make this with lemon zest?

Absolutely. Adding lemon zest enhances the citrus flavor without adding more acidity.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

Vegetable broth or even water with a dash of bouillon will work in a pinch.

How do I know when the sauce is reduced enough?

It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon and have a rich, glossy look.

Can I double the sauce?

Yes, doubling the sauce ingredients works well if you like extra for serving.

Does this recipe freeze well?

It’s best fresh, but it can be frozen in an airtight container for up to one month. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.

Conclusion

This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a flavorful, fast, and healthy meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With its zesty, garlicky sauce and crisp-tender green beans, it’s a one-pan wonder that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or just want a clean, satisfying dinner, this dish checks all the boxes.