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Keto Chicken and Green Beans Skillet (Quick One Pan Meal) - Simple Weeknight Dinner

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.25–1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (thighs stay juicier)
  • 12 ounces fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more if needed)
  • 1–2 tablespoons butter or ghee
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • 1/3 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat dry and slice into bite-size pieces or thin strips for quick cooking. Toss with salt, pepper, onion powder, paprika, and thyme.
  2. Blanch or quick-steam the beans (optional but recommended): Microwave green beans with a splash of water for 2 minutes, or blanch in boiling water for 2–3 minutes. Drain well. This gives you crisp-tender beans that finish perfectly in the skillet.
  3. Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add half the chicken in a single layer. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with another tablespoon of oil and remaining chicken.
  4. Build the pan base: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter or ghee to the skillet. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking 30–45 seconds until fragrant. Scrape up browned bits with a spatula.
  5. Deglaze: Pour in chicken broth and simmer 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly. Add lemon zest and half the lemon juice. Taste and adjust salt.
  6. Add beans and finish: Toss green beans in the sauce for 2–3 minutes until coated and crisp-tender. Return chicken and any juices to the pan. Stir to combine and warm through, 1–2 minutes.
  7. Final touches: Squeeze in more lemon juice to taste. Sprinkle Parmesan if using. Garnish with parsley. Serve hot.