Chicken and Green Beans Simple Flavorful Recipe
Looking for a quick, delicious meal? This Chicken and Green Beans recipe is just for you! With simple ingredients like chicken breasts, fresh green beans, and garlic, you can whip up a flavorful dish in no time. I’ll share my easy marinade tips, cooking methods, and presentation ideas that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that will elevate your dinner game!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bright and Zesty Flavor: This dish combines the freshness of lemon and the aromatic goodness of garlic, creating a vibrant flavor profile that elevates the chicken and green beans.
- Healthy and Wholesome: With lean chicken breasts and fresh green beans, this recipe is a nutritious choice that’s packed with protein and vitamins.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: Marinating the chicken and blanching the green beans makes this recipe simple to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Beautiful Presentation: The colorful contrast between the golden chicken and bright green beans makes for an appealing dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Marinade Components
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Seasoning and Garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
In this recipe for chicken and green beans, you will need simple and fresh ingredients. Start with two boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They are easy to cook and stay juicy. Next, grab one pound of fresh green beans. Trim them for a clean look. Finally, don’t forget three cloves of garlic. Mince them for a great flavor boost.
For the marinade, you will mix two tablespoons of olive oil. This adds richness. Then, zest and juice one lemon for a nice zing. Use one teaspoon of dried oregano for an earthy note. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like heat, you can add a quarter teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
For a bright finish, chop fresh parsley. This garnishes the dish and enhances its look. Use these ingredients to create a colorful and tasty meal that is simple yet flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
– Combining Ingredients
In a medium bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, the zest and juice of 1 lemon, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for taste. This blend makes a great marinade.
– Refrigeration Time
Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This time helps the flavors soak into the chicken.
Preparing the Green Beans
– Blanching Process
Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes. They should look bright green and be slightly tender.
– Ice Water Method
Drain the beans and quickly put them in a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking. After a few minutes, drain the beans again and set them aside. This keeps them crunchy and colorful.
Cooking the Chicken
– Searing Method
Heat a large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken (discard any leftover marinade). Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side.
– Ensuring Proper Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The chicken should reach 165°F. When done, take the chicken out and let it rest on a plate for a few minutes.
Sautéing the Green Beans
– Utilization of Skillet Residuals
In the same skillet, add the blanched green beans to the leftover oil and juices. Sauté for 2-3 minutes to heat them through and coat them well.
– Adjusting Seasoning
Taste the green beans and add more salt or pepper if needed. This step enhances their flavor.
Presentation
– Arranging in Platter
Slice the rested chicken into thick pieces. Arrange them on a large serving platter beside the green beans. This mix of colors looks great.
– Garnishing Tips
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a bright finish. You can also add a lemon wedge for an extra zesty touch.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Marinade
Time for Saturation
Marinating the chicken is key. I suggest at least 30 minutes. This gives the chicken time to soak up the flavors. For a deeper taste, consider marinating it overnight. Just remember, longer does not always mean better. You want the chicken juicy, not too salty.
Balancing Flavors
The zesty lemon and garlic mix well. I use a good pinch of salt and pepper. The red pepper flakes add a nice kick if you like heat. Taste the marinade before adding the chicken. Adjust the flavors to your liking for a perfect balance.
Cooking Techniques
Checking Chicken Doneness
The chicken should reach 165°F inside. I use a meat thermometer for the best results. This ensures it’s safe to eat. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part. The juices should run clear, not pink.
Skillet Versatility
I love using the same skillet for the chicken and green beans. The leftover oil and juices add flavor to the beans. After cooking the chicken, just add the beans straight in. It makes cooking easier and reduces cleanup.
Presentation Enhancements
Plating Suggestions
When serving, slice the chicken thick. Arrange it on a colorful platter. Place the green beans beside the chicken for a nice contrast. Drizzle some of the skillet juices over the top for extra flavor.
Using Colorful Ingredients
Fresh parsley brightens the dish. It adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also add lemon wedges on the side. This gives guests a chance to add a little extra zing to their plates.
Pro Tips
- Marination Time Matters: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful and tender it will become. Aim for at least 1 hour, or even overnight for the best results.
- Blanch for Brightness: Blanching the green beans not only cooks them slightly but also preserves their vibrant color and crunch. Don’t skip the ice bath!
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Garnish for Appeal: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s flavor. Consider adding a few lemon slices for an extra zesty touch!
Variations
Stir-Fry Chicken and Green Beans
To make a stir-fry, change how you cook the chicken and green beans. Instead of marinating, slice the chicken into thin strips. Heat a wok or a large pan over high heat. Add a little oil and cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes. Then, toss in the green beans. Stir-fry them together for another 3-4 minutes. This quick method keeps the chicken juicy and the beans crisp.
You can also add other vegetables to this dish. Bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas work well. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. You can add soy sauce or a splash of sesame oil for extra flavor.
Chicken and Green Bean Casserole
For a cozy twist, you can create a casserole. After cooking the chicken and beans, mix them with cream of mushroom soup. Layer this mixture in a baking dish. Top it with breadcrumbs or cheese for a crunchy finish. Bake at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly. This dish becomes creamy and rich, making it a family favorite.
To enhance the flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also mix in some sautéed onions or mushrooms. These small changes can make a big difference in taste.
Grilled Alternative
If you want a grilled version, change how you marinate the chicken. Use the same marinade but let the chicken sit longer, up to 2 hours. This lets the flavors soak in deeper. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. For the green beans, you can grill them too. Place them in a grill basket to prevent falling through. Toss them occasionally until they are tender and charred. This method gives a smoky flavor to both the chicken and beans.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
– Store leftovers in an airtight container.
– Use glass or plastic containers.
– Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Tips
– Portion out meals before freezing.
– Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
– Remove as much air as possible.
Thawing Directions
– Thaw in the fridge overnight.
– Use the microwave for quick thawing if needed.
Reheating Recommendations
– Oven Method: Preheat to 350°F. Place chicken and beans in a baking dish. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
– Skillet Method: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil and cook for 5 minutes, stirring until warm.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. However, you need to adjust the cooking time. Frozen beans require about 5-7 minutes to cook.
– Cooking Adjustments Needed:
– Skip the blanching step.
– Add the frozen beans directly to the skillet after cooking the chicken.
– Sauté for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use other proteins like turkey, tofu, or shrimp. Each option has its own flavor and texture.
– Alternative Protein Options:
– Turkey breasts: similar cooking time and taste.
– Tofu: use firm tofu, cut into cubes, and pan-fry until golden.
– Shrimp: add shrimp for a quick-cooking option. Cook for 2-3 minutes each side.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe works great for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it.
– Meal Prep Suggestions:
– Cook the chicken and green beans as directed.
– Store them in airtight containers in the fridge.
– They will last for up to 4 days, making it easy to grab a meal.
This blog post covered a delicious chicken and green bean recipe. We detailed the main ingredients, marinade, cooking steps, and presentation tips. Remember to marinate your chicken for the best flavor. Feel free to explore variations like casseroles or stir-fry. Proper storage can keep your meal fresh for days. With these steps and tricks, you can master this dish. Enjoy cooking, and don’t hesitate to make it your ow
Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken with Green Beans
Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 piece lemon, zest
- 1 piece lemon, juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste salt and pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- to taste fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, and a generous pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken breasts to the mixture, ensuring they are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- While the chicken is marinating, fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for about 3–4 minutes. Carefully drain the beans and immediately transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water. After a few minutes, drain the beans again and set them aside.
- In a large skillet, heat over medium heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken breasts (discard any remaining marinade) and cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate to rest for a few minutes.
- In the same skillet, add the blanched green beans. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are heated through and evenly coated with the garlicky oil. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as necessary.
- Slice the rested chicken breasts into thick slices and arrange them on a large serving platter. Add the sautéed green beans alongside the chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
