Name: Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Green Beans
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast cutlets; 1 teaspoon salt (divided); ½ teaspoon ground pepper (divided); 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided); 6 cups green beans ((about 1 pound), trimmed); 4 cloves garlic (thinly sliced); 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest; 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme (plus leaves for garnish); ¼ cup unsalted chicken broth; ¼ cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; ¼ cup toasted pine nuts ((see Tip)); Lemon wedges (for garnish)

Introduction to Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Green Beans

When it comes to quick weeknight meals, lemon-garlic chicken with green beans stands out as a delightful choice! Perfect for busy young professionals, this recipe combines fresh flavors and nutritious ingredients that come together in just 20 minutes. Imagine juicy chicken cutlets cooked to perfection alongside crisp green beans, all bathed in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce. It’s a meal that feels both indulgent and healthy.

Why Lemon-Garlic Chicken is a Weeknight Favorite

Here are a few reasons why this dish is a must-try:

Speedy Preparation: With a total cook time of only 20 minutes, it’s ideal for those hectic evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
One-Pan Wonder: Cooking the chicken and green beans together not only saves time but also infuses the beans with fantastic flavors, leaving you with minimal cleanup.
Healthful Ingredients: Utilizing lean chicken, bright lemon, and nutrient-packed green beans, this recipe aligns with various healthy eating lifestyles, such as the Mediterranean diet or low-carb preferences.

So, get ready to dig into this easy, mouthwatering dish that brings vibrant flavor and loads of satisfaction to your dinner table! If you’re looking for creative meal ideas, this recipe is definitely your answer. For more delicious recipes, check out EatingWell.

Ingredients for Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Green Beans

Essential ingredients for a delicious meal

To create a mouthwatering lemon-garlic chicken with green beans, you’ll need a few staple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch:

1 pound chicken breast cutlets: These cook quickly and remain juicy.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the flavor.
½ teaspoon ground pepper: Adds that perfect kick.
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: For sautéing and a touch of richness.
6 cups green beans: Fresh and vibrant, these add color and crunch to your dish.
4 cloves garlic: Thinly sliced, garlic provides a warm aroma and depth.
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest: Brightens the whole dish.
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme: Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile.

Optional ingredients for added flavor

For those looking to take their lemon-garlic chicken with green beans to the next level, consider these optional ingredients:

¼ cup unsalted chicken broth: A splash of broth keeps everything moist.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: For an extra citrusy zing.
¼ cup toasted pine nuts: These lend a delightful crunch and nuttiness.
Lemon wedges for garnish: Not just pretty—adds more flavor as you serve.

With these ingredients on hand, you’ll create a dish that's not only quick to make but also bursting with flavor. Happy cooking! For more pairing ideas, check out guides on Eating Well or The Spruce Eats.

Preparing Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Green Beans

Cooking a wholesome meal doesn't have to be laborious or time-consuming. The lemon-garlic chicken with green beans recipe is perfect for busy young professionals looking to whip up a delicious dish in just 20 minutes. Let’s break down the steps to this vibrant, healthy, and easy-to-make dinner.

Season the Chicken

To begin, you'll want to ensure your chicken cutlets are well-seasoned. Take about 1 pound of chicken breast cutlets and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps achieve that perfect golden crust later on. In a small bowl, mix ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of ground pepper. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken cutlets. This simple step elevates the flavor and makes all the difference in your lemon-garlic chicken with green beans.

Cook the Chicken in the Skillet

Now, let’s heat things up! Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, gently lay the seasoned chicken cutlets in the pan. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (73.8°C) — perfect for juicy chicken! After cooking, transfer the cutlets to a plate and cover them to keep warm while you continue cooking the vegetables.

Sauté Green Beans and Garlic

In the same skillet, you’ll add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and toss in your 6 cups of trimmed green beans. Season them with the leftover ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Sauté these vibrant green beans for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will give them that lovely tender-crisp texture. When they’re almost there, stir in 4 sliced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of grated lemon zest, and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme. The aroma will be heavenly, and you'll see the color of the beans brighten!

Add Liquid and Return Chicken to the Pan

Next, it’s time to bring this dish together! Pour in ¼ cup of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, making sure to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. This will help create a lovely sauce. Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate. Allow everything to simmer for about 1 minute until the liquid reduces slightly. Your kitchen will be filled with delightful scents!

Finish with Garnishes and Serve

Once everything is well-combined, it’s time for the finishing touches! Serve your lemon-garlic chicken with green beans on a platter and sprinkle over ¼ cup of toasted pine nuts for a satisfying crunch. Add a few extra thyme leaves and perhaps some lemon wedges, and voila! You have a healthy and delicious meal ready to impress. Enjoy with friends or savor it all to yourself; either way, you can’t go wrong with this dish!

For those wanting to dive deeper into healthy eating, check out EatingWell for more nutritious meal ideas!

Variations on Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Green Beans

When you're ready to shake things up, consider these delicious variations on classic lemon-garlic chicken with green beans.

Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Asparagus

Swap green beans for fresh asparagus for a vibrant twist. The asparagus cooks quickly, just like the chicken, and its earthy flavor pairs beautifully with lemon and garlic. Sauté the asparagus alongside the chicken, and watch how the bright green spears soak up all those delicious flavors. For an extra kick, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes!

Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Broccoli

Alternatively, you can use broccoli florets for a hearty, nutritious option. The broccoli absorbs the lemon-garlic essence wonderfully while adding a satisfying crunch. To make this variation, simply follow the same steps as the original recipe, substituting broccoli in place of the green beans. Your meal will not only taste fantastic but also provide a boost of vitamins and minerals!

Exploring these alternatives gives you the freedom to enjoy this dish in new ways, whether you're in the mood for a different veggie or simply want to cater to seasonal produce!

Cooking tips and notes for Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Green Beans

Why use fresh ingredients?

Using fresh ingredients elevates the flavor of your lemon-garlic chicken with green beans like nothing else! Fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices make your dish vibrate with vitality, while enhancing nutritional value. Sourcing produce from your local farmers' market can also be a fun experience that adds to the joy of cooking.

Key to perfect seasoning

The secret to achieving a well-seasoned dish lies in building flavors gradually. Start by seasoning the chicken before cooking to allow the salt and pepper to permeate. Make sure to taste as you go, adjusting with more lemon juice or a dash of salt to enhance the dish. Remember, you can always add more, but it's tough to take it out once it's in!

For additional cooking tips and fresh recipes, explore Eating Well.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Green Beans

Pairing with Grains or Salads

For a well-rounded meal, consider serving your lemon-garlic chicken with green beans alongside fluffy grains like quinoa, couscous, or brown rice. These options not only complement the dish but also add extra fiber and nutrients. For a lighter option, a fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple lemon vinaigrette enhances the citrus notes of the chicken beautifully.

Creative Serving Ideas

Get a little creative with your presentation! Serve the lemon-garlic chicken with green beans on a platter, garnished with additional lemon wedges and fresh thyme to impress your guests. For a cozy family-style dinner, consider using a cast-iron skillet to keep everything warm at the table. You can also top the dish with toasted pine nuts for added crunch and flavor. This not only elevates the dish but also makes it visually appealing, turning a simple dinner into a delightful experience.

Time Breakdown for Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Green Beans

Preparation Time

This flavorful dish kicks off with a simple 20-minute prep time. You’ll spend a few moments seasoning your chicken and chopping your green beans and garlic. Having everything prepped and ready to go will make your cooking experience effortless!

Cooking Time

Expect to spend about 20 minutes cooking this delightful lemon-garlic chicken with green beans. As the chicken sauté nicely in one pan, the green beans are tossed in, infusing their fresh flavor seamlessly into the dish.

Total Time

In total, you're looking at approximately 40 minutes from start to finish. With such a quick turnaround, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a healthy meal without the hassle. Get the details on preparing this delicious dish here.

Don't forget to enjoy this meal virtually guilt-free, as it's not only quick but also fits various dietary needs, making it a versatile option for anyone at the table!

Nutritional Facts for Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Green Beans

When you whip up this Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Green Beans, not only do you get a delicious meal but also a nutritious one! Here’s a quick breakdown of its vital stats that will keep you informed about what’s on your plate:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 300 calories, making it a light yet satisfying option for dinner.

Protein

You’ll gain about 30 grams of protein per serving, perfect for those looking to boost their intake in a healthy way.

Sodium

With a sodium content of around 400 milligrams, it's a flavorful dish that won’t overly spike your salt intake, especially compared to many takeout options.

Keep these nutritional insights in mind as you enjoy this tasty, balanced meal! For a further dive into the health benefits of chicken and green beans, you might find this article helpful. Enjoy cooking and nourishing yourself with this vibrant dish!

FAQs about Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Green Beans

Can I use frozen green beans?

Absolutely! You can use frozen green beans in this lemon-garlic chicken with green beans recipe. Just keep in mind that frozen beans may need a bit longer to cook compared to fresh ones. You can thaw them in the microwave or add an extra minute or two to the cooking time to achieve that perfect tender-crisp texture.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

If you find yourself out of chicken broth, don’t stress! You can easily substitute it with vegetable broth, which works wonderfully for flavor. Another option is to use water with a little added seasoning for extra taste.

How do leftovers reheat best?

To keep your lemon-garlic chicken with green beans delicious on the second day, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. This method preserves texture better than the microwave. Just add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out while heating through. You’ll enjoy that flavorful experience again!

For more tips on cooking chicken perfectly, check out this article from EatingWell.

Conclusion on Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Green Beans

In summary, lemon-garlic chicken with green beans is a go-to recipe for anyone seeking a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that fits into a busy lifestyle. With vibrant flavors and nutrients, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Try it, and savor the delightful taste of this fresh dish!