Skillet Chicken and Green Beans Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Skillet Chicken and Green Beans Recipe is your new best friend. Juicy chicken thighs sear beautifully alongside crisp-tender green beans in one pan, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that packs a punch of herbs, garlic, and a subtle kick from chili flakes or Sriracha. Whether you’re whipping up a dinner for the family or craving a fast weekday meal, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, each playing an important role in building the rich flavors and perfect texture of the dish. From the juicy chicken to the vibrant green beans, every component shines here.

• 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs offer more flavor and juiciness, while breasts cook quicker and leaner.
• 1 pound green beans, trimmed: Fresh green beans add a crisp and bright contrast to the tender chicken.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create a golden crust on the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil: A high smoke point oil that keeps the chicken moist and golden.
• 1 teaspoon each paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano or Italian seasoning: A flavorful spice blend that seasons the chicken perfectly.
• ½ teaspoon each salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic infuses the skillet with its warm, inviting aroma.
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha or sweet chili sauce (optional): Adds a gentle heat and hint of sweetness if you like a little kick.
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes (optional): For those who prefer more spice in their meal.
• ½ cup chicken stock: Helps to deglaze the pan and infuses moisture into the green beans.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or juice of ½ lemon: Brightens the dish with a fresh, tangy finish.

How to Make Skillet Chicken and Green Beans Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken dry to remove any excess moisture—this step is crucial to getting that beautiful sear. If you’re using chicken breasts, slicing them in half horizontally will help them cook evenly and faster. In a small bowl, whisk together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Give the chicken a generous coating on both sides with this spice mixture; this seasoning blend is the foundation of the amazing flavor in this Skillet Chicken and Green Beans Recipe.

Step 2: Microwave the Green Beans

While you cook the chicken, get your green beans ready by placing them in a microwave-safe dish with a little water and cooking for 8 minutes. This step softens the beans just enough, so they finish cooking in the skillet with a pleasing crisp-tender texture. This dual-cooking method ensures your green beans don’t end up soggy or overcooked.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken in the Skillet

Heat the butter and avocado oil in a large, heavy-duty skillet over medium heat. Add your seasoned chicken and cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. The combination of butter and oil helps the chicken develop a rich flavor and an irresistible crust. When cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside while you build the rest of the dish.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Add Flavor

In the same skillet, add minced garlic, Sriracha or sweet chili sauce, and red chili flakes if using. Sauté them together for about a minute to awaken those bold flavors without burning the garlic. This step is where the dish really starts to come alive with a wonderful aroma that signals a delicious meal is on its way.

Step 5: Combine Green Beans, Stock, and Lemon

Next, stir in the microwaved green beans, chicken stock, and fresh lemon juice. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the green beans to absorb the flavorful liquid and finish cooking to your preferred tenderness. This simmering also helps meld all the flavors beautifully in the pan.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Push the green beans to one side of the skillet and nestle the cooked chicken back into the pan to warm through. This simple rearrangement brings everything together for the final presentation. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped parsley, lemon slices, or even freshly grated parmesan cheese for an extra special touch.

How to Serve Skillet Chicken and Green Beans Recipe

Garnishes

Brighten your plate with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for a hint of zest that complements the savory chicken and green beans. A light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese can also add a subtle creaminess that takes this meal to the next level effortlessly.

Side Dishes

This skillet meal is designed to stand alone, but if you want to offer a little something extra, simple sides like creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or crusty bread work beautifully. They soak up the delicious pan juices and round out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant presentation, arrange the chicken and green beans neatly on a large platter and garnish with lemon wedges and sprigs of herbs. If you’re serving guests, a sprinkle of toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts adds a surprising crunch and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover skillet chicken and green beans in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making this recipe perfect for meal prep or a quick next-day dinner.

Freezing

This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Make sure it has cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture when reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to maintain the crispness of the green beans and the juiciness of the chicken. Alternatively, use the microwave and check frequently to avoid overcooking or drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just fine; just slice them thinner to ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy. Thighs tend to be more succulent but breasts are a great leaner option.

Is it necessary to microwave the green beans first?

Microwaving green beans softens them slightly so they finish cooking in the skillet without becoming soggy. If you prefer, you can blanch them in boiling water instead, but microwaving is quick and convenient.

Can I skip the Sriracha or chili flakes if I don’t like spicy food?

Yes! The recipe is delicious without the heat, and you can always add more spices later if you want to experiment with flavor. The garlic and herbs provide plenty of savory depth on their own.

What can I use instead of chicken stock?

If you don’t have chicken stock on hand, vegetable stock or even water with a pinch of salt can work. Stock just adds an extra layer of flavor that makes this recipe especially tasty.

How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy?

Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps it sear properly. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan, and avoid overcooking by cooking chicken thighs for about 5 minutes per side until just cooked through. Rest it a few minutes before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Skillet Chicken and Green Beans Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods can lead to an incredibly satisfying meal. Next time you want a dish that’s speedy, full of flavor, and comforting, you’ll know exactly what to make. Give it a try—you might just find your new weeknight favorite!

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