Chicken Green Bean Skillet Recipe

This Chicken Green Bean Skillet is everything comfort food should be: juicy bites of seasoned chicken, snappy green beans, and a buttery, lemon-kissed sauce—all made in just one pan! It’s a weeknight hero that brightens up your dinner routine with color, flavor, and wholesome simplicity.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this Chicken Green Bean Skillet is how it transforms familiar ingredients into something really special. Each one brings its own magic—juicy chicken, bright green beans, and a handful of pantry staples that build irresistible flavor fast.

• Boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs): Cut into bite-sized pieces, for tender, juicy bites that soak up all the seasonings.
• Green beans: Fresh and crisp, they add color, crunch, and balance out the richness of the sauce.
• Olive oil: For searing the chicken and softening the beans—adds subtle fruitiness.
• Butter: Split into parts to build layers of flavor and create that glossy, velvety finish.
• Minced garlic: Nothing beats the depth and aroma freshly minced garlic brings.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that instantly infuses the dish with Mediterranean charm.
• Onion powder: Adds savory umami and brings out the best in both chicken and veggies.
• Kosher salt: Divided, so every step is well seasoned without being overpowering.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth that makes the whole skillet crave-worthy.
• Black pepper: For gentle heat and balance.
• Lemon (juice + slices): Both tangy and pretty—adds a hit of brightness and beautiful garnish.
• Low sodium chicken broth: Gives the sauce richness without overwhelming saltiness.
• Crushed red chili pepper flakes: For just the right level of gentle heat; adjust to your liking!
• Fresh Italian parsley: Sprinkled in for color, freshness, and that just-picked flavor.

Variations

This Chicken Green Bean Skillet plays well with whatever you have on hand, and it adapts beautifully to suit your preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment—little swaps or extras are an easy way to make this meal totally your own.

• Swap the protein: Try boneless pork, salmon fillets, or even tofu for a different spin that’s just as comforting and delicious.
• Add more veggies: Toss in sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even small broccoli florets for extra color and crunch.
• Make it dairy-free: Use plant-based butter, and a splash more olive oil, to keep things free of dairy but still wonderfully rich.
• Kick up the spice: Crank up those red pepper flakes or stir in a spoonful of harissa for more heat lovers at the table.

How to Make Chicken Green Bean Skillet

Step 1: Prep the Green Beans

Arrange your trimmed green beans in a microwave-safe dish with half a cup of water. Give them a quick zap in the microwave for about four minutes—they should be just barely fork-tender and still crisp. This trick keeps their color vibrant and speeds up the skillet time.

Step 2: Mix the Seasonings

While the beans are steaming, grab a small bowl and combine the Italian seasoning, onion powder, smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and a dash of black pepper. This little flavor bomb is the secret to mouthwatering chicken in every forkful.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your chicken pieces. Spread them out so they sear, then bump up the heat to medium-high. Cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes, sprinkle on your seasoning mix, and stir. Continue to cook, stirring here and there, until the chicken is golden and cooked through (another 5-6 minutes). If things are browning too quickly, turn down the heat. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it cozy while you tackle the beans.

Step 4: Cook the Green Beans

Drop the rest of your butter (2 tablespoons) into the same skillet—don’t wipe it clean; those brown bits mean extra flavor! Add the partially cooked green beans, half the parsley, the garlic, remaining salt, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, then splash in your lemon juice and chicken broth. Turn up the heat and let it bubble for another 2-3 minutes, reducing the sauce just a bit.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Return the chicken (and any juices) to the skillet, toss everything together, and sprinkle with more parsley. Finish with fresh lemon slices for that “wow” at the table. That’s it! Your Chicken Green Bean Skillet is ready to take center stage.

How to Serve Chicken Green Bean Skillet

Garnishes

I love to finish this Chicken Green Bean Skillet with generous handfuls of fresh parsley and thin lemon slices. The parsley adds freshness and a splash of color, while lemon slices make everything look restaurant-ready and amplify those citrusy notes.

Side Dishes

This skillet practically begs for a starchy side to soak up the velvety lemon-butter sauce—think fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a hunk of crusty bread. For a lighter meal, a simple green salad tossed with vinaigrette is perfection.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual family dinners, serve the Chicken Green Bean Skillet right from the pan at the table for that cozy, rustic charm. For guests, plate high with a tangle of beans, chicken on top, and scatter with lemon zest and extra herbs—add edible flowers for a show-stopping spring look!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Green Bean Skillet keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. The flavors meld together, so you’ll find the sauce even more irresistible on day two!

Freezing

To freeze, cool the chicken and green beans completely, then pack into freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator—note that the texture of the green beans may soften a bit, but all the flavor sticks around.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat (with a splash of extra broth or water to loosen the sauce), or pop individual portions in the microwave until warmed through—just enough to bring back its just-cooked magic without overdoing it.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Chicken Green Bean Skillet—the aromas will have everyone peeking into the kitchen and the first bite guarantees smiles all around. It’s simple, fresh, and bursting with goodness. Let this be your go-to when you need something speedy, nourishing, and totally satisfying!

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