If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than this Skillet Chicken and Green Beans recipe. It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken thighs or breasts paired with crisp green beans, all cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup. With the perfect balance of spices and a hint of acidity from lemon juice, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite in your household. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Skillet Chicken and Green Beans shines for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile and can easily be adapted based on what you have in your pantry or what’s in season. The use of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder not only enhances the chicken’s natural flavors but also adds depth to the dish. The addition of green beans provides a nutritious crunch, making this meal wholesome and satisfying. Plus, it’s all done in one skillet, which means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

Your Shopping Guide

When preparing for your Skillet Chicken and Green Beans, here’s what you’ll need:

4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 pound green beans, trimmed
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon avocado oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon oregano or Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon Sriracha or sweet chili sauce (optional)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup chicken stock
1 tablespoon lemon juice (or juice of 1 lemon)

Don’t forget to check your pantry for spices before heading to the store—it’s always a good idea to save a trip!

Equipment Breakdown

To whip up this delightful Skillet Chicken and Green Beans, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

Large Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking and browning.
Spatula or Tongs: Useful for flipping the chicken and stirring the green beans.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of ingredients.
Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for prepping your garlic and trimming the green beans.

With the right tools, you’ll be set up for success!

Cook Skillet Chicken and Green Beans Like This

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your Skillet Chicken and Green Beans:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs or breasts with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat them evenly for the best flavor.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 3: Add the Green Beans

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the butter and allow it to melt. Then, toss in the trimmed green beans and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. If you like a bit of heat, add the Sriracha or sweet chili sauce and crushed red chili pepper flakes at this stage.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in the chicken stock and lemon juice. Stir to combine and let everything simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your Skillet Chicken and Green Beans warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of this dish!

In-Season Swaps

This recipe is fantastic because it allows for seasonal swaps. Here are a few ideas to keep things fresh:

Swap green beans for asparagus or broccoli in the spring.
Use zucchini or bell peppers in the summer for a different flavor profile.
In the fall, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or Brussels sprouts.
In winter, try using hearty greens like kale or Swiss chard.

Feel free to get creative based on what you find at your local market!

Avoid These Traps

When preparing your Skillet Chicken and Green Beans, keep these tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls:

Overcrowding the Skillet: Make sure not to overcrowd the chicken in the skillet; you want it to sear nicely and not steam.
Underseasoning: Don’t skip the spices! They are key to making this dish flavorful.
Overcooking the Green Beans: You want them tender-crisp, so keep an eye on them to avoid mushiness.
Forgetting to Deglaze: Use the chicken stock to deglaze the skillet, ensuring you get all those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.

By being mindful of these tips, you’ll ensure a delicious outcome every time!

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Skillet Chicken and Green Beans dish can be made ahead and stored for later. Here’s how:

Cook the chicken and green beans as directed, then let them cool completely.
Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop until heated through.

Having a meal ready to go in the freezer is a lifesaver on busy days!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs. Just be mindful that they may cook a bit quicker, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

What can I use instead of chicken stock?

If you don’t have chicken stock on hand, vegetable broth or even water can work as substitutes, although the flavor will be slightly less rich.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! You can increase the amount of Sriracha or add more crushed red chili pepper flakes to amp up the heat. Adjust it to your personal preference!

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as some veggies may require more or less time to cook.

The Last Word

In just a short amount of time, you can create a delicious and nutritious Skillet Chicken and Green Beans that the whole family will love. The one-pan method keeps cleanup easy and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try, and you might just find it becoming a staple in your dinner rotation!