Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans is a delightful recipe that I stumbled upon one evening when I wanted something quick yet comforting. The sizzling aroma of garlic and butter melded with tender chicken and crisp green beans filled my kitchen, making it the perfect meal for a busy weeknight. This dish is not only quick to prepare but boasts a rich flavor profile that will impress your family or guests. Let’s explore this recipe that has quickly become a staple in my culinary repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are plenty of reasons to add Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans to your dinner lineup. First off, it comes together in under 30 minutes—ideal for weeknight meals. It’s made with simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand, making it budget-friendly too. Kids love it, as it combines savory chicken with vibrant green beans in a way that makes eating vegetables a little more exciting.
“This was a hit at our dinner table! The kids couldn’t get enough of the buttery garlic flavor, and I loved how quick and easy it was to make.” — Home Cook Review
Step-by-Step Overview
Making this Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans is both straightforward and satisfying. It starts with searing seasoned chicken thighs until golden brown, then sautéing fragrant garlic and vibrant green beans in rich butter. Finally, everything comes together in one skillet, creating a harmonious dish that’s delicious and visually appealing.
What You’ll Need
Gather These Items:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
If you’re in a pinch, chicken breast can be a substitute for the thighs, but the thighs do lock in juiciness and flavor! Similarly, feel free to swap green beans for another vegetable like asparagus or broccoli.
Directions to Follow
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add 4 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toss in the green beans and cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together to combine well.
- Heat everything through briefly, just until warmed.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your meal!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
For a beautiful presentation, plate the chicken thighs alongside vibrant green beans, drizzled with the garlic-butter sauce from the skillet. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up all those lovely flavors. A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette can perfectly balance the richness of this dish. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea for the ultimate dining experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up or gently reheat them in a skillet over medium-low heat to restore that delicious buttery flavor. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain quality and safety.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic and herbs for an hour before cooking.
- Don’t rush the browning stage; a nice golden crust elevates the entire dish.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving—everyone’s palate is different!
Recipe Variations
- Herb Option: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while cooking for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that complements the garlic beautifully.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for firm tofu, sautéing it until golden for a tasty vegetarian option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prep time for this recipe?
The total prep time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of around 15-20 minutes, making it a quick meal option.
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes! Just ensure they’re properly thawed and drained before using to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans
A quick and comforting dish featuring tender chicken and crisp green beans sautéed in garlic butter, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add 4 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toss in the green beans and cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together to combine well.
- Heat everything through briefly, just until warmed.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your meal!
Notes
For best results, marinate the chicken in garlic and herbs for an hour before cooking. Adjust seasonings to taste before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg