Lemon Butter Chicken and Green Beans Recipe

By: CALVIN ROURKE

Published: April 12, 2026

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Introduction

If you're searching for a quick and flavorful dinner option, look no further than this delightful Lemon Butter Chicken and Green Beans. The combination of tender chicken simmered in luscious lemon butter sauce paired with crisp green beans makes for a meal that is both satisfying and refreshing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights.
  • The zesty lemon butter sauce adds a burst of flavor to the chicken.
  • Healthy green beans complete the dish, adding color and nutrients.

Ingredients Overview

This recipe features simple yet flavorful ingredients. The star of the dish is the boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which are juicy and cook quickly. The buttery lemon sauce combines fresh lemon juice and garlic, enhancing the overall taste. Fresh green beans add a vibrant crunch, making this dish not just delicious but visually appealing too.

Lemon Butter Chicken and Green Beans ingredients preparation

Ingredients ready to go

Step-by-Step Instructions

This dish comes together in just a few steps, ensuring your dinner will be ready in a flash. The technique of blanching the green beans keeps them bright and crunchy, while searing the chicken in lemon butter delivers a rich, delectable flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Lemon Butter Chicken and Green Beans cooking in progress

Cooking in progress

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Troubleshooting and Pro Tips

For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Additionally, if you prefer crispy green beans, skip the blanching and sauté them in the skillet for a few extra minutes before serving.

Lemon Butter Chicken and Green Beans finished dish

Ready to serve!

Storage, Reheating, and Making Ahead

Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken and green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze, place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep it moist.

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Butter Chicken and Green Beans pairs beautifully with a side of rice or quinoa. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking.

What can I substitute for green beans?

Trimmed asparagus or broccoli would be excellent alternatives if you don't have green beans.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead, then reheat and serve with freshly cooked green beans.

Lemon Butter Chicken and Green Beans Recipe

Delicious Lemon Butter Chicken paired with fresh green beans, a perfect weeknight meal that's ready in under an hour.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Total Time 35 mins
  • By: Calvin Rourke
  • Category: Chicken Recipes
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: American
  • Yield: 4 Servings
  • Dietary: None

Ingredients

  • 01 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 02 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 03 Juice of 2 lemons
  • 04 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 05 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 06 Salt and pepper to taste
  • 07 1 pound fresh green beans
  • 08 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 09 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 01

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

Step 02

2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Step 03

3. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme, then add to the skillet.

Step 04

4. Cook chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

Step 05

5. Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 06

6. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and blanch green beans for 3 minutes.

Step 07

7. Drain and toss the green beans with olive oil and red pepper flakes.

Step 08

8. Serve chicken with green beans on the side, drizzled with pan sauce.

Notes

  • 1 For a richer flavor, let the chicken marinate in the lemon juice and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • 2 If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to the pan in the last few minutes of cooking.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Pot for blanching
  • Tongs
  • Measuring cups
  • Cutting board
  • Knife