Creamy Lemon Chicken With Green Beans

Name: Creamy Lemon Chicken With Green Beans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Collection

I love making Creamy Lemon Chicken with Green Beans because it combines zesty flavors with creamy goodness that elevates a simple chicken dish to something special. The bright citrus notes from the lemon harmonize beautifully with the succulent chicken, while the green beans add a delightful crunch. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weekday dinner or a cozy meal at home. Trust me, this dish will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds—it's that good!

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-02-10T17:13:36.039Z

When I first experimented with this Creamy Lemon Chicken, I knew I wanted to create something that felt both comforting and refreshing. The balance of the creamy sauce and the brightness of the lemon zest is key, and my tip is to always use fresh lemons for the best flavor. The addition of green beans not only complements the dish visually but also adds a crunchy texture that everyone loves.

Since then, I've made this dish countless times, adjusting the seasonings to suit my taste. One thing I've learned is that letting the sauce simmer slightly longer allows the flavors to intensify, creating a richer experience. Serve this with a side of rice or crusty bread, and you have a meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty flavors that awaken your taste buds
Creamy sauce that perfectly coats the chicken
Quick to prepare for busy weeknights or casual gatherings

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is the star of this dish, and achieving the perfect consistency is key. After adding the heavy cream to the skillet, make sure to lower the heat to medium-low. This prevents the sauce from reaching a boiling point, which can cause it to separate. Stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully and will give you a luscious, cohesive sauce that clings to the chicken and green beans.

The balance of acidity and creaminess is what sets this dish apart. When adding the lemon juice and zest, I recommend tasting the sauce as you go. Depending on the freshness of your lemon, you might want to adjust the amount of juice used. The goal is a bright flavor that enhances the creaminess without overpowering the dish. If you find the sauce too tangy, a pinch of sugar can help balance the flavors.

Choosing the Perfect Chicken

For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal due to their quick cooking time and ability to absorb the creamy sauce well. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be an excellent substitute; they tend to be juicier and provide a richer flavor. Just remember that thighs may need an additional cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through, roughly 7-10 minutes on each side.

It’s important to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken remains moist and flavorful. If you prefer grilling or baking, you can marinate the chicken in lemon juice and olive oil for an hour prior to cooking, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Perfectly Crisp Green Beans

Green beans add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. For optimal texture, select fresh green beans that are bright green and firm. When sautéing, keep an eye on the timing; the goal is tender yet crisp beans, typically around 3-4 minutes over medium heat. If you cook them too long, they can become mushy, which detracts from the overall dish quality.

If you want to incorporate more vegetables, consider adding bell peppers or asparagus, which can be sautéed alongside the green beans. These options provide color and flavor variations while still ensuring the dish remains quick to prepare. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to accommodate any additional ingredients.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delightful dish:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
1 cup heavy cream
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to bring this delicious dish to your table:

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Green Beans

In the same skillet, add the trimmed green beans and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp. Remove and set aside with the chicken.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and add the minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for about 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken and green beans to the pan, coating them with the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some grated parmesan to the sauce right before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Lemon Chicken with Green Beans can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. After cooking, allow the dish to cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the green beans may lose some of their crispness upon reheating, so try to add them fresh if you're serving this to guests.

To reheat, simply warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help revive the sauce and prevent drying. If you're considering freezing, it's best to freeze only the chicken in the sauce, as the green beans can become soggy when thawed. Freeze for up to 2 months and defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation can elevate your dining experience, so consider serving the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious sauce. Quinoa or couscous are also fantastic options for a healthier alternative, pairing well with the zesty flavors. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a pop of freshness with each bite.

For a bit of added color and texture, you could serve a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. This will balance the richness of the chicken while adding a refreshing element to the meal. I also recommend a chilled glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the lemon and enhances the overall dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and remain tender during cooking.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if you prefer a lighter version.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately in advance and combine them when ready to serve.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Served with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, this meal becomes even more satisfying.