Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans is a quick, comforting one-skillet dinner that blends juicy chicken thighs with crisp-tender green beans. If you like bold garlic-butter flavors, you’ll appreciate this take—similar in spirit to the Texas Roadhouse garlic butter chicken skillet—but pared down to a family-friendly, easy weeknight meal.
why make this recipe
This Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans recipe is a simple, satisfying solution for busy nights when you want something flavorful without fuss. It uses only a handful of ingredients, cooks in one pan, and requires minimal cleanup. The combination of savory garlic butter and tender chicken makes the dish feel special, yet it comes together in under 30 minutes, so it works for both weeknight dinners and casual weekend meals.
Green beans add a bright, fresh note and a satisfying crunch. Using chicken thighs keeps the meat juicy and forgiving if you’re not timing everything perfectly. Plus, this recipe is highly adaptable — you can swap herbs, add a squeeze of lemon, or toss in other vegetables without losing the core flavor profile.
how to make Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans
This method is straightforward and geared toward reliable home results. Read the steps through once before starting so everything moves smoothly on the stove.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the garlic butter.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the green beans and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, toss everything together, and ensure the green beans are coated in the garlic butter.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- 4 tablespoons garlic butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Notes:
- Chicken thighs: Boneless or bone-in thighs both work. Boneless cooks faster; bone-in has slightly more flavor. If you prefer white meat, substitute four boneless, skin-on chicken breasts but reduce cooking time and check doneness carefully.
- Green beans: Fresh is best for texture. If using frozen green beans, add them directly from frozen and cook a little longer; they will release water so reduce other liquid if needed.
- Garlic butter: You can make your own by mixing softened butter with minced garlic, or use store-bought garlic herb butter. For a lighter option, swap half the butter for extra-virgin olive oil.
- Salt and pepper: Season generously for the best flavor. If using low-sodium ingredients or unsalted butter, you may want to add a pinch more salt.
- Parsley: Optional but adds a fresh pop of color and mild herb flavor. Substitute with chives, basil, or cilantro if you prefer.
Pro Tips for Success Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans
- Dry the chicken before seasoning: Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels before salting and peppering. Removing excess moisture helps the skin or exterior brown better and avoids steaming.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: If the pan is too full, the chicken will steam instead of sear. Use a large skillet or cook in two batches for perfect browning.
- Use medium heat and watch closely: Garlic and butter can burn if the pan is too hot. Maintain medium heat and lower it slightly if the butter begins to darken.
- Check internal temperature: For safety and juiciness, cook chicken thighs to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure juices run clear and the meat feels firm but not hard.
- Finish with fresh acid: A squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of light vinegar (like white wine or apple cider vinegar) right before serving brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
Flavor Variations Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans
- Lemon-Herb Twist: Add the zest and juice of one lemon and a teaspoon of chopped fresh thyme or oregano during the last minute of cooking. The citrus cuts through the butter for a lively finish.
- Spicy Garlic Butter: Stir in 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes when melting the butter for a gentle heat. For more punch, add a dash of smoked paprika.
- Mushroom and Shallot Upgrade: Sauté sliced mushrooms and thinly sliced shallots after removing the chicken, then add green beans. Mushrooms add depth and make the meal heartier.
- Parmesan Crunch: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the skillet at the end and broil for 1–2 minutes in an oven-safe pan to create a golden, cheesy crust (watch carefully so it doesn’t burn).
- Mediterranean Style: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, a handful of olives, and a pinch of dried oregano to the green beans for a savory, tangy variation.
Serving Suggestions Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans
- Over rice: Serve the chicken and green beans over steamed white, brown, or herbed rice to soak up the garlic butter. This makes the meal more filling and kid-friendly.
- With mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic partner for buttered chicken and vegetables. The butter sauce pairs perfectly with smooth potatoes.
- With crusty bread: A warm baguette or rustic loaf helps scoop up any leftover garlic butter in the pan, making every bite satisfying.
- As a salad topper: Slice leftover chicken and toss with mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a quick, protein-rich salad.
- With quinoa or farro: For a whole-grain option, serve the skillet over cooked quinoa or farro. These grains add chew and nutty flavor.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans
- Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the butter sauce, or microwave in short bursts until warmed through.
- Freezing: For best results, separate components. Freeze the cooked chicken thighs in a single layer on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Freeze the green beans separately if possible to avoid sogginess. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
- Reheating tips: To avoid drying out reheated chicken, reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water and cover for a few minutes until just heated through. If the green beans seem limp after reheating, finish with a quick sauté in fresh butter or olive oil to refresh texture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) — approximate
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Protein: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fat: 27 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
Notes on nutrition: These values are estimates for one serving of four (one chicken thigh plus a portion of green beans and garlic butter) and will vary based on the exact cut of chicken, whether skin is used, and the amount of added salt. To reduce calories and fat, use skinless chicken thighs and cut the garlic butter amount in half, or substitute part of the butter with olive oil.
FAQ About Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans
What type of chicken thighs should I use for the best flavor?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs offer the most flavor because the bone adds depth and the skin crisps nicely when seared. Boneless thighs are more convenient and cook faster, making them a good choice for weeknights. If you use boneless thighs, reduce the cooking time slightly and check doneness earlier to prevent overcooking.
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans work fine and can be a convenient option. Add them directly from frozen to the skillet; they may release some water, so cook a bit longer to evaporate excess moisture and concentrate the flavors. Reduce any added liquids (like broth) if using frozen veggies to avoid a watery pan.
Is it safe to cook chicken entirely on the stovetop this way?
Absolutely. Cooking chicken thighs on the stovetop is safe as long as you reach the proper internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a reliable meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh away from bone when possible. Searing both sides over medium heat until golden brown and finishing covered for a few minutes helps ensure even cooking.
How can I prevent the garlic from burning?
Garlic burns quickly and turns bitter if it hits very hot oil or butter. To prevent this, use medium heat and add garlic when the butter is melted but not smoking. If you’re cooking the chicken first and the skillet is hot, remove it from direct heat briefly before adding garlic or add garlic later when the green beans go in. Alternatively, use garlic powder during searing and add fresh minced garlic toward the end.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
Yes. To make a dairy-free version, substitute garlic butter with a blend of olive oil and a little garlicky oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. For a vegan dish, replace the chicken with hearty plant-based proteins like pan-seared tempeh, thick slices of marinated tofu, or seared portobello mushrooms. Adjust cooking times and seasoning as needed to ensure the plant proteins are well-flavored and cooked through.
How do I adjust cooking for thicker or thinner chicken pieces?
If your chicken pieces are thicker, they’ll need a longer cook time at a slightly lower heat to avoid burning the outside before the inside cooks. Consider finishing thicker pieces in a covered skillet for several minutes, or transfer the pan briefly to a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For thinner pieces, reduce searing time and check doneness early.
Final Thoughts
Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans is a dependable, flavorful option that fits many weeknight needs. It pairs simplicity with enough richness to feel like a treat, and it leaves room for variations that suit your pantry and preferences. With just a skillet, a few fresh ingredients, and a little attention to searing and seasoning, you can serve a homey, satisfying meal in under an hour. Try one of the suggested variations or serving ideas to make the dish your own, and don’t forget that small touches like lemon or fresh herbs can brighten the whole plate.
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Skillet Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A quick, comforting one-skillet dinner featuring juicy chicken thighs and crisp-tender green beans, enhanced with bold garlic-butter flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- 4 tablespoons garlic butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the garlic butter.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the green beans to the same skillet and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, toss everything together, and ensure the green beans are coated in the garlic butter.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For best results, pat chicken dry before seasoning. Don’t overcrowd the skillet, use medium heat, and check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s correctly cooked.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
