Are you looking for a delicious and healthy dinner recipe that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This chicken green bean recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together in under 30 minutes. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – simple, satisfying, and undeniably delicious. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this flavorful and nutritious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Start by trimming your green beans and chopping the onion and garlic. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
-
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
-
Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Add Green Beans and Seasoning: Add the trimmed green beans, chicken broth, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme to the skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper.
-
Simmer and Serve: Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of chicken, cook it in batches to ensure even browning.
- Adjust cooking time: The cooking time for the green beans may vary depending on their thickness and desired tenderness. Taste-test to ensure they are cooked to your liking.
- Add a touch of heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or parsley.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche at the end for a creamy texture.
- Lemon zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for extra citrusy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10g
This simple chicken green bean recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and the flavor combinations are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy!