Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Italy with our Lemon Butter Chicken and Warm Green Bean Salad! This delightful dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick culinary adventure that can be ready in just 40 minutes. Picture perfectly seared chicken breasts bathed in a luscious lemon-butter sauce, paired with crisp-tender green beans that add a refreshing crunch. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe will elevate your dining experience. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 lemons, juiced
- 1 pound green beans
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Trim green beans and wash thoroughly.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it becomes golden and starts to foam slightly. This will create a rich, nutty flavor base for the chicken.
- Place chicken breasts into the hot buttered skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The butter will help create a beautiful golden crust.
- While chicken is cooking, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken during the last 2 minutes of cooking. This will infuse a bright, citrusy flavor into the meat.
- Remove chicken from skillet and let rest on a cutting board. Keep warm by covering loosely with aluminum foil.
- In the same skillet with remaining butter and chicken drippings, quickly sauté green beans for 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, ensuring beans remain crisp-tender.
- Plate the chicken breasts alongside the warm green bean salad. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the dish for extra flavor.
- Garnish with additional fresh lemon wedges and optional chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Preparation is Key: Before you start cooking, ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
- Perfectly Seasoned Chicken: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Generously salt and pepper the chicken breasts to enhance their flavor and ensure a delicious crust.
- Watch the Butter: When melting the butter, keep an eye on it to prevent burning. You want it golden and foamy, which adds a rich, nutty flavor to the chicken.
- Infuse with Lemon: For an extra burst of citrus flavor, add the lemon juice during the last few minutes of cooking. This will keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Crisp-Tender Green Beans: To achieve the perfect texture for your green beans, sauté them just until they are bright green and still crisp. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture.
- Don’t Forget the Drippings: Use the flavorful drippings left in the skillet to drizzle over the plated chicken and green beans. It adds an extra layer of richness to the dish.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley and additional lemon wedges not only enhance the visual appeal but also brighten the flavors of the dish.
- Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove while everything is still warm and the flavors are at their peak.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 120mg
