Easy lemon butter chicken with green beans cooks in one pan! Made without cream, this healthy lemon butter chicken is made with coconut milk. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, delivering a burst of flavor while keeping it light and wholesome.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder: This lemon butter chicken is cooked in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Healthy Ingredients: Utilizing coconut milk instead of cream keeps the dish light and dairy-free.
- Bright Flavors: The combination of lemon zest and juice gives the chicken a fresh and zesty taste.
- Versatile Pairings: Serve it alongside rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes of prep, you can have a gourmet meal on the table in under an hour.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here are some must-have items for preparing your lemon butter chicken.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large ovenproof skillet
- Instant-read thermometer
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large ovenproof skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken and finishing it in the oven, ensuring even cooking.
- Instant-read thermometer: A crucial tool for checking chicken doneness — no more guessing!
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of mincing shallots and garlic.
Ingredients
The following ingredients will create a flavorful and satisfying lemon butter chicken dish.
For the Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (or a mix!)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided; swap ghee to make Paleo or vegan butter to make dairy-free)
For the Vegetables
- 1 pound green beans (ends trimmed and cut in half; or swap trimmed asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 1 small shallot (minced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Sauce
- 1 medium lemon (zest and juice, plus additional lemon slices for serving)
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk (14 ounces; do not use light or the sauce won’t thicken properly)
Garnish and Serving Options
- Chopped fresh thyme or parsley
- Steamed brown rice
- Cauliflower rice
- Crusty bread
- Whole wheat pasta
How to Make Lemon Butter Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Place a rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 375 degrees F. While it’s heating, season the chicken with kosher salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large ovenproof skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
* Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet.
* Sear on both sides until deeply golden brown; this should take about 10 to 12 minutes total.
* Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Reduce heat to medium-low.
* Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the pan.
* Then add green beans, shallot, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine.
* Cook for about 7 minutes, stirring often until green beans are crisp-tender.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Remove from heat after cooking vegetables.
* Zest the lemon directly into the pan.
* Squeeze in fresh lemon juice while stirring.
* Slowly pour in coconut milk while continuing to stir until combined.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the reserved chicken back into the skillet with all other ingredients.
Step 6: Bake in Oven
Place skillet into preheated oven.
Cook for 15 to 25 minutes until an instant-read thermometer inserted into thickest part of chicken reads 165 degrees F. Cooking time may vary based on size of chicken pieces.
Step 7: Serve Your Dish
Once cooked through, top with chopped parsley.
Serve with extra lemon wedges along with your choice of rice, pasta, or fresh bread for mopping up that delicious sauce!
How to Serve Lemon Butter Chicken
Lemon butter chicken is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
With Steamed Rice
- Steamed Brown Rice – A healthy option that absorbs the delicious lemon butter sauce.
- Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that keeps the flavors intact without adding extra calories.
With Pasta
- Whole Wheat Pasta – Nutritious and filling, this pasta complements the chicken beautifully.
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up every drop of the savory sauce, adding a crunchy texture.
Garnishes and Extras
- Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle chopped thyme or parsley for added freshness.
- Lemon Wedges – Serve alongside for an extra zesty kick when desired.
How to Perfect Lemon Butter Chicken
Perfecting your lemon butter chicken ensures a delicious, flavorful meal every time. Follow these tips for the best results.
- Use Quality Chicken – Opt for fresh, boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs to ensure tenderness and flavor.
- Sear Properly – Browning the chicken well adds depth to the overall taste, so take your time during this step.
- Don’t Skip the Zest – Lemon zest enhances flavor; make sure to include it for a punchy citrus aroma.
- Control Sauce Thickness – Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamy texture; light versions may not thicken as well.
- Monitor Cooking Time – Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness; aim for 165 degrees F for juicy chicken.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste – Don’t hesitate to tweak salt, pepper, or herbs based on your preference.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Butter Chicken
Pairing side dishes with lemon butter chicken can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition.
- Quinoa Salad – A light and refreshing salad packed with protein that complements the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort while balancing the lemony flavor of the dish.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted until crispy, these offer a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with lemon butter sauce.
- Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned and grilled asparagus is a perfect match; it brings out the freshness in the dish.
- Mediterranean Couscous – Fluffy couscous mixed with olives and feta creates a Mediterranean flair that enhances the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Lemon Butter Chicken experience. Here are some tips to ensure a perfect dish every time.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking for a flavorful base.
- Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees F without overdoing it.
- Using light coconut milk: Light coconut milk won’t thicken the sauce properly, resulting in a watery dish. Always opt for full-fat coconut milk for the best texture.
- Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh herbs enhance the flavor of your lemon butter sauce significantly. Don’t skip adding thyme or parsley as a finishing touch.
- Not adjusting cooking times: Cooking times can vary based on chicken size. Always check doneness with a thermometer instead of relying solely on time.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Lemon Butter Chicken can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Lemon Butter Chicken
- Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Lemon Butter Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350 degrees F. Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed to maintain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lemon Butter Chicken?
Lemon Butter Chicken is a delicious main course featuring tender chicken cooked in a creamy lemon sauce made with coconut milk. It is full of flavor and pairs well with various sides.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Lemon Butter Chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. They add extra moisture and flavor while still cooking beautifully.
How can I make Lemon Butter Chicken dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, swap regular butter for vegan butter or ghee. The recipe remains flavorful without compromising on taste.
What sides go well with Lemon Butter Chicken?
Popular sides include steamed brown rice, cauliflower rice, crusty bread, or whole wheat pasta. Each option complements the rich lemon butter sauce perfectly.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Butter Chicken recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Its versatile nature allows you to customize it with different sides or veggies according to your preference. Don’t hesitate to give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Easy Lemon Butter Chicken with Green Beans
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Easy Lemon Butter Chicken with Green Beans, a delightful one-pan recipe that is both healthy and satisfying. This dish showcases tender chicken simmered in a luscious lemon-coconut sauce, complemented by crisp green beans. With no cream involved, it offers a light yet rich taste perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. In just under an hour, you can impress your family and friends with this gourmet meal that’s simple to prepare and cleanup is a breeze. Pair it with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite a burst of flavor!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 pound green beans
- 1 small shallot
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 medium lemon
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk (14 ounces)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- In a large ovenproof skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sear chicken until golden brown (10-12 minutes). Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter, green beans, shallot, garlic, and Italian seasoning; cook until beans are crisp-tender (about 7 minutes).
- Stir in lemon zest and juice followed by coconut milk; combine well.
- Return chicken to skillet, then transfer to oven and bake until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (15-25 minutes).
- Serve topped with fresh herbs and extra lemon wedges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: For a Paleo version, substitute ghee for butter. Feel free to add more vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for extra nutrition. Adjust seasonings according to your taste preference for added flair.
