Lemon Garlic Chicken

Ingredients

• 2.5 lbChicken drumsticks$6.75
• 2Lemon$1.00
• 4 clovesGarlic$0.47
• 1 lbGreen beans$2.80
• 2 tbspOlive oil$0.40
• 1 tspSalt—
• 1/2 tspBlack pepper$0.06
• Total for 4 servings$11.48

Most of the cost is chicken drumsticks ($6.75) and green beans ($2.80). Prices are estimated for the amount used, at average US grocery prices (November 2026).

Steps

1. Pat the chicken drumsticks thoroughly dry with paper towels, then season all sides evenly with the salt, black pepper, and the finely grated zest of 1 lemon.
2. Finely mince the garlic. Squeeze the juice from the zested lemon to yield about 2 tablespoons of juice, slice the remaining lemon into thin rounds, and trim the green beans.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the drumsticks in a single layer and sear for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden-brown on all sides.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low, add the minced garlic, and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the lemon juice and 1/4 cup of water, cover tightly with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Uncover and nestle the trimmed green beans and lemon slices into the pan around the drumsticks. Cover again and simmer over medium-low heat for 8 to 10 minutes, until the green beans are tender-crisp and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) with no pink remaining near the bone.
6. Remove the lid and simmer uncovered for 1 to 2 minutes so the pan juices reduce and lightly coat the back of a spoon.
7. Transfer the drumsticks and green beans to a warm serving platter, spoon the pan sauce over the top, and serve immediately.