why make this recipe
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Green Beans is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with the fresh taste of green beans, all enveloped in a buttery garlic sauce. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, the bright lemon juice adds a refreshing twist, making every bite enjoyable.
how to make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Green Beans
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 cups green beans
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.
- Cook chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add green beans to the skillet, toss with the garlic butter, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Return chicken thighs to the skillet, squeeze lemon juice over the top, and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
how to serve Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Green Beans
This dish is best served warm. You can place the chicken thighs on a plate with a generous serving of green beans on the side. Drizzle extra garlic butter sauce over the top for added flavor. It pairs well with rice or mashed potatoes, so feel free to add a side if you like.
how to store Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Green Beans
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place the chicken and green beans in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
tips to make Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Green Beans
- Make sure to use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the juiciest results.
- Don’t skip the garlic; it adds tons of flavor.
- Adjust the lemon juice to your liking; add more if you prefer a tangier taste.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to the skillet for extra nutrition.
variation
If you want to switch things up, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. You can also try different herbs, like thyme or rosemary, to give it a unique flavor. For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking for the best results.
What can I substitute for garlic?
If you don’t like garlic, you can skip it or use garlic powder instead. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also add flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish in the oven?
Yes, you can bake the chicken thighs in the oven. Season and place them in a baking dish, add the green beans, and drizzle with the garlic butter. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Green Beans
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken thighs Bone-in, skin-on recommended for juiciness.
- 2 cups green beans Can use frozen, thawed before cooking.
- 3 tablespoons butter Unsalted is preferred.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic adds maximum flavor.
- 1 pieces lemon, juice Adjust quantity for desired tanginess.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.
- Cook chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking the Green Beans
- In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add green beans to the skillet, toss with the garlic butter, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until tender.
Final Assembly
- Return chicken thighs to the skillet, squeeze lemon juice over the top, and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
