Quick Healthy Dinner Recipe For Family

If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner for your family, try this easy chicken and green beans recipe. You’ll need boneless chicken breasts, fresh green beans, garlic, butter, lemon juice, and zest. Cook the chicken in a skillet until golden, then sauté garlic and green beans. Add lemon for flavor and heat everything together. This meal takes under 30 minutes and is nutritious. For more ideas and tips to enhance your family meals, keep going.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

When you gather your family around the dinner table, you’ll quickly realize why this recipe is a great choice.

Regular family meals offer numerous health benefits. Eating together at least three times a week lowers the risk of children being overweight by 12%. You’ll find that family dinners increase the intake of fruits, vegetables, and other essential nutrients. Additionally, involving family members in meal selection can further enhance their interest in healthy eating.

Moreover, they help prevent disordered eating by reducing the risk of anorexia and bulimia by 35%. Beyond physical health, these meals also boost social-emotional skills. Kids learn empathy and self-regulation, enhancing their school performance.

Finally, family dinners promote awareness of food allergies and foster healthier eating habits, leading to positive choices that last a lifetime.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

Cooking Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides, then place them in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

2. Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet, and pour in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and thyme if using. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the green beans for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender but still crisp.

1. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the green beans. Spoon some of the lemon garlic butter sauce over the chicken, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and combine the flavors.

2. Serve the chicken and green beans hot, drizzled with the sauce from the skillet.

Extra Tips:
To enhance the dish, consider adding some cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers to the skillet along with the green beans for added color and flavor.

If you prefer a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added during cooking.

For meal prep, this recipe can easily be doubled and stored in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great option for leftovers. Additionally, this quick healthy dinner can be served with Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls for a well-rounded meal.

Final Thoughts

Cooking healthy dinners at home can feel intimidating, especially after a long day. However, with the right approach, you can make it easier.

Start by planning meals ahead of time to save precious moments. Remember, cooking at home is generally healthier and more affordable than dining out. Additionally, 80% of Americans are too tired to cook after work, so finding quick solutions is essential.

Here are some quick tips:

• Keep it simple: Focus on recipes that take less than 30 minutes.
• Prep ingredients in advance: Chop vegetables or marinate proteins when you have time.
• Use versatile ingredients: Choose items that can be used in multiple meals.
• Involve the family: Get everyone to help with cooking to make it more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Ingredients for Dietary Restrictions?

Absolutely, you can substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions. Just make certain you choose alternatives that maintain nutritional value, like using beans for protein or low-fat dairy for healthier options. It’s all about accommodating your needs!

How Long Does This Recipe Take to Prepare?

Don’t worry if you think cooking takes forever! Most quick recipes can be ready in under 30 minutes. You’ll find options that fit your schedule and allow you to enjoy delicious meals without the wait.

What Sides Pair Well With This Dish?

You can pair your dish with roasted fennel, sautéed green beans, or a vibrant Mediterranean chickpea salad. These sides add flavor, texture, and nutrition, enhancing your meal while keeping it light and healthy.

Can This Recipe Be Made in Advance?

You can whip this recipe up in advance, making your future self do a happy dance. Just marinate, pre-cook, and freeze—your dinner will be ready faster than you can say “delicious!”

How Can I Store Leftovers Properly?

To store leftovers properly, cool food to room temperature, use airtight containers, and label them with the date. Refrigerate or freeze promptly to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Keep raw meats separate.