Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Name: Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 2 cups green beans; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Prepare a quick and healthy dinner with this Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe. Juicy chicken breasts are paired with vibrant green beans in a simple, gluten-free dish that is both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is packed with flavor and requires minimal ingredients, making it a go-to meal for anyone looking to eat well without the fuss.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2025-12-09T12:54:33.793Z

This dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner

The Benefits of Cooking Chicken at Home

Cooking chicken at home not only allows you to control the ingredients but also empowers you to experiment with flavors. By preparing meals from scratch, you can ensure that your dish is not only delicious but also made with high-quality, wholesome ingredients. This Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe is an excellent way to explore the joys of home cooking, providing a satisfying meal that brings the family together.

Moreover, chicken breast is a versatile protein that adapts well to various cooking methods. Whether you grill, bake, or sauté, you can create a meal that suits your taste preferences. With this recipe, you'll savor the juicy flavors of perfectly cooked chicken, enhancing your culinary skills while enjoying a meal that’s low in fat and high in protein.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Green Beans

Green beans are not only nutritious but also add a crisp texture and vibrant color to your meal. To achieve the best flavor and texture, it's essential to cook them properly. In this recipe, adding green beans to the skillet during the last five minutes of cooking ensures they retain their bright green color and crispness, preventing them from becoming mushy. Remember to rinse them before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of garlic towards the end of cooking. This simple addition can elevate the dish, making the green beans even more delicious. Pairing your chicken with perfectly cooked green beans not only enhances the meal but also boosts its nutritional value, giving you a dose of vitamins and minerals.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Weeknights

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a healthy meal can be a challenge. This Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe is designed specifically for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it takes minimal time to prepare and cook, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires only a few basic ingredients and a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze. You can easily double the recipe to feed a larger family or meal prep for the week ahead. With this dish in your repertoire, you’ll have a go-to option that’s quick, healthy, and satisfying when time is limited.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
2 cups green beans
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Enjoy your meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, and cook the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.

Add Green Beans

Add green beans to the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Benefits of the Ingredients

Chicken breasts are renowned for being low in fat and high in protein, making them an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. They provide essential amino acids that promote muscle growth and repair. Additionally, chicken is rich in vitamins B6 and B12, which support energy levels and cognitive function, making it an excellent option for active lifestyles.

Green beans are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. These nutrients contribute to overall health, supporting immune function and aiding digestion. Incorporating green beans into your meals not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile of your dish, making it even more beneficial for your well-being.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers after preparing this Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe, you’re in for a treat! Store your meal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows the flavors to meld together, potentially enhancing the taste even further. Leftovers make for a quick and convenient lunch option the following day.

When reheating, it’s best to do so gently to avoid overcooking the chicken and making it dry. Use a microwave on a low setting or warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Enjoy the convenience of a homemade meal that tastes just as good the second time around!

Variations to Try

While this Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe is perfect as it is, you can easily modify it to suit your taste. For a kick of flavor, consider adding your favorite herbs and spices during the cooking process. Ingredients like paprika, thyme, or Italian seasoning can elevate the dish and bring new dimensions to the flavor profile.

You can also customize the vegetables in this recipe for variety. Toss in some sliced bell peppers, fresh asparagus, or even cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of color and nutrition. This flexibility allows you to adapt the recipe based on seasonal produce or personal preferences, making mealtime exciting and diverse.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce.