Description
There are certain dinners that quietly become the backbone of your weekly routine—the kind that comes together in one pan, requires minimal prep, and never fails to satisfy. This Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans is one of those recipes. It’s not fancy, but it’s everything you want on a busy weeknight: healthy, fast, and full of flavor.
I first made this dish when my daughter had back-to-back after-school activities, and I had zero time to make something elaborate. I grabbed a pack of chicken breasts, a handful of fresh green beans, and a few pantry staples. In less than 30 minutes, dinner was on the table—and everyone loved it. Now it’s one of those trusted meals I go back to again and again.
This dish is protein-packed, naturally low in carbs, and cooked in one skillet with garlic, lemon, and simple seasonings. It’s an excellent choice for meal prep or those days when you want real food, real fast.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp chicken broth or water
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the chicken
Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Pat dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. - Sear the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from pan and set aside. - Cook the green beans
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add trimmed green beans and sauté for 2 minutes. Add garlic and stir for another minute, until fragrant. - Steam the beans
Add chicken broth or water to the pan, cover with a lid, and let steam for 3–4 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp. - Bring it all together
Return the chicken to the pan. Squeeze lemon juice over everything and toss to combine. Garnish with optional lemon zest, parsley, or red pepper flakes if desired. - Serve and enjoy
Plate the chicken with a side of green beans—or slice the chicken and serve it on top for a complete bowl-style meal.
Notes
- You can easily double the recipe for family dinners or meal prep.
- This dish is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
- Use frozen green beans if needed—just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
Nutrition
- Calories: ~280