Skillet & One-Pan

Chicken And Green Bean Skillet

Name: Chicken And Green Bean Skillet
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 lb (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

By Otto Larkin · June 19, 2026 · Skillet & One-Pan

Prep20 min

Cook25 min

Total45 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I made this Chicken And Green Bean Skillet for my family. It was a weeknight, and I was looking for something quick, easy, and delicious. I had all the ingredients on hand, and it turned out to be a huge hit. The combination of tender chicken, crispy green beans, and a savory sauce was a perfect combination.

As a home cook, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are not only delicious but also easy to make and budget-friendly. This Chicken And Green Bean Skillet checks all those boxes. It's a one-pan wonder that can be made in under an hour, and it's perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

What I love about this recipe is that it's highly customizable. You can use your favorite seasonings, add some heat with red pepper flakes, or throw in some cherry tomatoes for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless, and it's a great way to get creative in the kitchen.

This recipe is perfect for families, as it's easy to make and can be served with a variety of sides, such as rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables. It's also a great option for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and reheated when you're ready to eat.

In this recipe, I'll walk you through the steps to make this delicious Chicken And Green Bean Skillet. From prep to finish, I'll share my tips and tricks for getting the best results. So, let's get started and make a delicious dinner that your family will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and can be ready in under an hour.
It's a one-pan wonder that's perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
The combination of tender chicken, crispy green beans, and savory sauce is a perfect combination.
It's highly customizable, so you can add your favorite seasonings and ingredients.
It's a great option for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and reheated when you're ready to eat.
It's a budget-friendly recipe that won't break the bank.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this recipe is the combination of high heat and a flavorful sauce. By cooking the chicken and green beans in a hot skillet, we can achieve a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The sauce, made with chicken broth, cream, and spices, adds a rich and creamy element to the dish that complements the chicken and green beans perfectly.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of layering flavors. By seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs before cooking, we can add depth and complexity to the dish. Then, by adding aromatics like garlic and onion to the skillet, we can create a flavorful base for the sauce.

Resting the chicken after cooking is also crucial, as it allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay tender. This step may seem simple, but it makes a big difference in the final result.

Finally, the use of fresh green beans adds a nice crunch and texture to the dish. By cooking them in the skillet with the chicken and sauce, we can create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to ingredients, this recipe is all about using fresh and flavorful components. From the chicken and green beans to the aromatics and spices, every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a delicious and well-balanced dish. In this section, we'll go through each ingredient and explain why it's important and how to choose the best options.

One of the most important things to keep in mind when shopping for ingredients is to choose fresh and high-quality items. This will make a big difference in the final result, as fresh ingredients will have more flavor and texture than older or lower-quality options.

1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, bonelessChicken thighs are a great option for this recipe because they're tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Look for boneless, skinless thighs to make the recipe easier to prepare.
2 tbsp olive oilOlive oil is a great option for cooking because it has a high smoke point and a rich, fruity flavor. Use a good-quality olive oil for the best results.
1 tsp saltSalt is an essential seasoning in any recipe, and it's especially important in this dish. Use kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor.
1/2 tsp black pepperBlack pepper is another essential seasoning that adds depth and complexity to the dish. Use freshly ground black pepper for the best results.
1 tsp dried thymeThyme is a classic herb that pairs perfectly with chicken and green beans. Use dried thyme for convenience, or fresh thyme for a more intense flavor.
1 tsp garlic powderGarlic powder is a great option for adding a subtle garlic flavor to the dish without overpowering the other ingredients. Use a high-quality garlic powder for the best results.
1 lb (450g) fresh green beans, trimmedFresh green beans are a crucial ingredient in this recipe, and they add a nice crunch and texture to the dish. Look for fresh, tender green beans and trim them before using.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a fundamental ingredient in many recipes, and it adds a rich, savory flavor to this dish. Use fresh garlic for the best results, and mince it before adding to the recipe.
1 cup chicken brothChicken broth is a great option for adding moisture and flavor to the dish. Use a low-sodium broth to control the salt content, and adjust to taste.
1/2 cup heavy creamHeavy cream adds a rich, creamy element to the sauce and helps to balance out the flavors. Use a high-quality heavy cream for the best results.
1 tsp lemon juiceLemon juice is a great option for adding a bright, citrusy flavor to the dish. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best results.
1/4 cup grated cheddar cheeseCheddar cheese is a great option for adding a rich, creamy element to the sauce and balancing out the flavors. Use a high-quality cheddar cheese for the best results.
Salt and pepper to tasteSeasoning the dish with salt and pepper is essential for bringing out the flavors and textures. Use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best results.

Ingredients for Chicken And Green Bean Skillet

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWhiskSpatulaTongs or slotted spoon

How to Make Chicken And Green Bean Skillet

1
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large heavy skillet or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer and slightly smoke when it's hot, which is around 400°F to 425°F.
2
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly and generously, as this will add flavor and texture to the dish.
3
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe temperature.
4
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest. This step is crucial, as it allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay tender.
5
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until it's fragrant and slightly caramelized.
6
Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until they're tender but still crisp. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to stir the green beans and ensure they're cooked evenly.
7
Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, and grated cheddar cheese to the skillet. Whisk the mixture together and bring it to a gentle simmer, which should be around 180°F to 190°F.
8
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is coated.
9
Use a spatula to carefully remove the chicken and green beans from the skillet and place them on a serving platter. Spoon the remaining sauce over the top and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
10
Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This step is crucial, as it allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay tender.
11
Slice the chicken into thin strips and serve it with the green beans and sauce. Use a sharp knife to slice the chicken, and make sure to cut against the grain for the most tender results.
12
Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a side of your choice. Some options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
13
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the dish gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, and serve hot.

Expert Tips

Use a large heavy skillet or wok to cook the chicken and green beans, as this will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the ingredients from steaming instead of searing.
Don't overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the temperature and prevent the ingredients from cooking evenly. Cook the chicken and green beans in batches if necessary.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Don't overcook the green beans, as they can become mushy and unappetizing. Cook them until they're tender but still crisp, and then remove them from the heat.
Use a whisk to mix the sauce ingredients together, and then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to thicken it.
Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving, as this will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay tender.
Garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to add a bright and fresh flavor.
Serve the dish hot, as this will help to bring out the flavors and textures of the ingredients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough.
Not trimming the green beans, which can make them difficult to cook evenly.
Not using a meat thermometer, which can result in undercooked or overcooked chicken.
Overcrowding the skillet, which can lower the temperature and prevent the ingredients from cooking evenly.
Not letting the chicken rest, which can result in a less tender and juicy final product.
Not whisking the sauce ingredients together, which can result in a lumpy or uneven sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some heat to the dish by incorporating red pepper flakes or sliced jalapenos.
Use different types of cheese, such as parmesan or feta, to add a unique flavor to the sauce.
Add some smokiness to the dish by incorporating smoked paprika or chipotle peppers.
Use different types of protein, such as shrimp or pork, to create a unique and delicious variation.
Add some acidity to the dish by incorporating a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of vinegar.
Use different types of green beans, such as haricot verts or snap beans, to add a unique texture and flavor to the dish.
Add some creaminess to the sauce by incorporating sour cream or Greek yogurt.

What to Serve With Chicken And Green Bean Skillet

This Chicken And Green Bean Skillet is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides and ingredients. Some options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. You can also serve the dish with a side of crusty bread or over rice or noodles.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it's highly customizable, so you can add your favorite ingredients and sides to make it your own. Some other options include adding diced bell peppers or onions to the skillet, or using different types of cheese or herbs to add a unique flavor to the sauce.

Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sproutsMashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoesA simple green salad with a light vinaigretteCrusty bread or over rice or noodlesSteamed broccoli or green beansSauteed spinach or kale

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Any leftovers from this Chicken And Green Bean Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat the dish, simply microwave it gently or reheat it on the stovetop over low heat.

It's also possible to freeze the dish for up to 2 months, although the texture and flavor may be affected. To freeze the dish, simply place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer. When you're ready to reheat it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

When reheating the dish, make sure to heat it gently and evenly to prevent the ingredients from becoming overcooked or dry. You can also add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the dish to help keep it moist and creamy.

Overall, this Chicken And Green Bean Skillet is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for days to come. With its rich and creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy green beans, it's a recipe that's sure to become a favorite in your household.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the best option for this recipe, as they're tender, juicy, and full of flavor. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but they may be slightly drier and less flavorful.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F. You can insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast or thigh, avoiding any bones or fat.

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans instead of fresh, but they may be slightly softer and less flavorful. Simply thaw the frozen green beans and pat them dry with paper towels before using them in the recipe.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or too thin?

To prevent the sauce from becoming too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to thin it out. To prevent the sauce from becoming too thin, you can simmer it gently over low heat to reduce the liquid and thicken the sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Simply reheat the dish gently in the microwave or on the stovetop when you're ready to serve it.

What are some variations I can make to this recipe?

There are many variations you can make to this recipe, such as adding diced bell peppers or onions to the skillet, using different types of cheese or herbs, or incorporating smoked paprika or chipotle peppers for a smoky flavor.

How do I store leftovers from this recipe?

Any leftovers from this recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Simply reheat the dish gently in the microwave or on the stovetop when you're ready to serve it.

Can I use different types of protein in this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of protein in this recipe, such as shrimp or pork. Simply adjust the cooking time and method according to the protein you're using, and make sure to cook it to a safe internal temperature.

How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry or overcooked?

To prevent the chicken from becoming dry or overcooked, make sure to cook it to a safe internal temperature of 165°F and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature, and make sure to not overcrowd the skillet or cook the chicken for too long.

The Full Recipe

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