Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet: A One-Pan, Low-Carb Wonder
Introduction
Looking for a healthy dinner that’s fast, flavorful, and family-friendly? This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is your weeknight hero. Tender chicken breast seared in zesty garlic butter and brightened with lemon juice, paired with crisp-tender green beans—this one-pan meal is low-carb, high-protein, and totally delicious. Perfect for those searching “easy keto chicken recipes,” “healthy skillet meals,” or “low-carb lemon chicken dinner.”
Origin and Cultural Significance
Skillet meals have long been a staple in rustic home kitchens for their efficiency and simplicity. This recipe takes cues from Mediterranean flavors—bright lemon, fresh garlic, and olive oil—but uses pantry-friendly ingredients to create a modern, American-style low-carb dish. It’s a meal that satisfies clean eaters, keto followers, and anyone who loves quick comfort food with real ingredients.
Ingredients
– 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips or bite-sized pieces)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter (divided)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 lemon
– ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– Lemon slices, for garnish
Optional Additions
– Add halved cherry tomatoes for color and a hint of sweetness
– Toss in thinly sliced red onions or shallots for depth
– Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese just before serving
– Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a full keto plate
– Use boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and lemon zest.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Once melted, add chicken in a single layer. Sear for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds. Add green beans and toss to coat. Cover and cook 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Return chicken to the skillet. Add lemon juice and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together and cook for another 1–2 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 4 Servings)
Calories: ~320
Protein: ~34g
Fat: ~18g
Carbohydrates: ~8g
Sugar: ~3g
Fiber: ~3g
Sodium: ~480mg
Cholesterol: ~95mg
Gluten-Free | Low-Carb | Keto-Friendly | Paleo Adaptable
Health Benefits
– Low in carbs, high in protein: Ideal for those following keto, low-carb, and gluten-free diets
– Green beans add fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
– Lemon juice boosts immunity and enhances flavor without calories
– Cooked in heart-healthy olive oil and butter for a rich taste that supports satiety
– One-pan meals reduce clean-up and make healthy weeknight dinners simple and achievable
Tips for Success
– Don’t overcook the green beans; you want them bright and crisp.
– For juicier chicken, marinate briefly in lemon juice and olive oil before cooking.
– Use a large skillet so ingredients cook evenly without steaming.
– Meal prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days and reheats beautifully.
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet is a vibrant, satisfying meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients or techniques to create something delicious, healthy, and crowd-pleasing.
Recommendation
Pair it with a simple side of roasted cauliflower, mashed turnips, or a refreshing cucumber salad. Want to carb it up? Serve it over brown rice or quinoa for a balanced plate the whole family will love.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
When real food meets bold flavor, every bite is a win. This one-pan wonder delivers satisfying indulgence with a nutritious twist—perfect for anyone striving to eat well without sacrificing taste. Simple, quick, and bursting with fresh flavor, it’s the kind of dinner you’ll put on repeat.