Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Enjoy a delightful and nutritious meal with this Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe. Juicy, tender chicken breasts are paired with vibrant, crisp green beans for a quick and satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This gluten-free dish is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor and protein, making it a favorite for families seeking healthy meal options.
This recipe is a fantastic option for busy households. It combines protein and vegetables in a quick, easy-to-prep meal that everyone will enjoy.
Healthy Dinner Option
Finding healthy recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare can be a challenge. This Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans dish stands out as a perfect solution for busy families. The combination of lean protein from the chicken and the vitamins from the green beans makes this meal not only nutritious but also satisfying. It's a concrete way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
Moreover, chicken breast is a low-fat, high-protein option that supports muscle growth and repair. Paired with green beans, which are loaded with fiber and essential nutrients, this recipe helps you maintain a balanced diet. It's a meal you can feel good about serving your family, knowing you're fueling their bodies with wholesome ingredients.
Quick and Easy Preparation
In today’s fast-paced world, dinner time can often feel rushed. This recipe aims to simplify the cooking process while still delivering a flavorful meal. With just a few steps, you can prepare this dish in under 30 minutes. The marination time is minimal, and the cooking involves just a skillet and a pot, making cleanup a breeze.
The versatility of this recipe also lies in its simplicity. You can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your family's tastes or even swap out the green beans for other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a simple meal prep option, this dish delivers on all fronts.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you’re on a meal prep kick, this Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe is an excellent choice. You can cook a batch and divide it into individual containers for the week. Just reheat and enjoy a wholesome meal at any time, whether at home or at work. It’s a great way to save time and ensure you have healthy options readily available.
Furthermore, this dish pairs well with various sides or grains, allowing you to mix it up throughout the week. Consider serving it over brown rice, quinoa, or alongside a mixed salad. The meal's base remains the same, but with simple additions, you can enjoy a diverse and exciting menu all week long.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound of fresh green beans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your meal:
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
Cook the Green Beans
In another pot, bring water to a boil and add the green beans. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
Combine the Ingredients
Once cooked, drain the green beans and combine them with the chicken in the skillet. Add lemon juice and stir well.
Serve hot and enjoy your meal!
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is packed with essential nutrients, making it a powerhouse of health benefits. Each serving of chicken breast provides a significant amount of protein, vital for muscle maintenance and repair. On the other hand, fresh green beans are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, contributing to overall health and supporting the immune system.
In addition to vitamins, green beans also offer a good source of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. Including such nutrient-dense foods in your routine not only aids in maintaining a healthy weight but also supports optimal bodily functions. Choosing meals that blend protein and vegetables is key to a balanced diet.
Cooking Tips
For best results with this chicken dish, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning. This helps them cook evenly, ensuring they turn out juicy and tender each time. Additionally, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
As you cook the green beans, remember to avoid overcooking them to maintain that vibrant color and crisp texture. A quick blanching method—boiling them briefly and then shocking them in ice water—can also yield fantastic results if you're looking for that perfect snap in your green beans.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans; just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.
→ How can I store the leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans
Enjoy a delightful and nutritious meal with this Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe. Juicy, tender chicken breasts are paired with vibrant, crisp green beans for a quick and satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This gluten-free dish is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor and protein, making it a favorite for families seeking healthy meal options.
Created by: Mario
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound of fresh green beans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
In another pot, bring water to a boil and add the green beans. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
Once cooked, drain the green beans and combine them with the chicken in the skillet. Add lemon juice and stir well.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 15g