Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious and healthy meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This Chicken with Green Beans recipe is your answer. It's a simple, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying blend of tender chicken and crisp-tender green beans. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with this fantastic recipe, perfect for homemade cooking and easily adaptable to your preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for extra zing!)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a delicious base for the flavor of the entire dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Add the Green Beans
Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine everything well.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Pour in the chicken broth (or water), and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp. The cooking time depends on the thickness of your green beans.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Stir in the lemon juice (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cooking Tips for 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: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken cubes and green beans. Check for doneness frequently.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for a more substantial meal.
Delicious Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Creamy chicken and green beans: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier dish.
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Green Beans: Increase the lemon juice and add other fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for a brighter, more herby flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe offers a healthy and balanced meal, providing lean protein from chicken and essential vitamins and minerals from the green beans. The nutritional content will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. A rough estimate per serving is around 300-350 calories, with moderate protein and low carbohydrates. For a more precise calculation, utilize an online nutritional calculator, inputting your specific ingredient quantities.
This easy chicken and green beans recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish!