Green Bean Chicken Stir-Fry

Looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than this mouthwatering recipe for Chicken with Fresh Green Beans! This dish combines tender pieces of chicken with crisp green beans in a savory yet slightly sweet sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. It’s the perfect balance of protein and vegetables in one satisfying meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

In under 30 minutes, you can have this delightful Chicken with Fresh Green Beans stir fry on the table, ready to impress your family and friends. The simple ingredients, like boneless, skinless chicken breasts and fresh green beans, come together effortlessly to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also nutritious. The secret ingredient, honey, adds a delightful sweetness to the sauce that elevates the entire meal to a whole new level of yumminess. So, why settle for takeout when you can whip up this homemade masterpiece in no time?

With its versatility and ease of preparation, this Chicken with Fresh Green Beans recipe is a winner for any home cook. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or add your own twist with different veggies or protein choices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your skillet, and get ready to savor every bite of this delectable chicken and green beans stir fry!

Quick Benefits

• Quick weeknight dinner ready in less than 30 minutes
• Balanced meal with protein and vegetables in one dish
• Versatile recipe that works with many side dishes
• Stores well for meal prep and reheats beautifully

Why You’ll Love This Green Bean Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

• Quick weeknight dinner ready in less than 30 minutes
• Simple ingredients you likely have on hand
• Balanced meal with protein and vegetables in one dish
• Versatile recipe that works with many side dishes
• Perfect balance of protein and vegetables in one dish
• Great for meal prep as it reheats wonderfully
• Customizable with your favorite vegetables
• The honey in the sauce elevates the dish to another level
• Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors develop
• Many variations possible, making it adaptable to your preferences
• Pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or quinoa for a complete meal
• Family-approved and a reliable go-to recipe for busy nights

Ingredients for Green Bean Chicken Stir-Fry

• 2 1/2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, divided
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil, divided
• 3 tablespoons honey

Pro Tips for Green Bean Chicken Stir-Fry

Pro Tips:

For the most tender chicken, cut the chicken breast against the grain into 1-inch pieces before cooking. This will help maintain the juiciness of the meat even when cooked quickly.

To ensure your green beans have the perfect crisp-tender texture, you can blanch them separately in boiling water for a minute before adding them to the stir fry. This step will help retain their vibrant color and crunchiness.

If you’re a fan of extra sauce to drizzle over your rice or noodles, feel free to double the sauce ingredients in the recipe. This way, you’ll have plenty of that delicious soy, honey, and garlic mixture to coat every bite.

How to Make Green Bean Chicken Stir-Fry

Step 1: Step 01

In a large pan over medium heat, heat 1 teaspoon of oil. Add green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender. Transfer beans to a plate and cover.

Step 2: Step 02

After wiping the pan clean, turn the heat to high and add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook them in a single layer in the pan for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 3: Step 03

Cook garlic in the pan for 30 seconds, then add green beans and cook for an additional 2 minutes until warmed through.

Step 4: Step 04

Combine chicken broth, honey, and soy sauce in a bowl. In a separate small bowl, stir together cornstarch and a tablespoon of cold water.

Step 5: Step 05

Pour the soy sauce mixture over the chicken and green beans and cook for 30 seconds. Whisk in the cornstarch and bring to a boil, then cook for an additional minute until the sauce starts to thicken, stirring constantly.

Step 6: Step 06

Serve promptly with rice if preferred.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve prepared the chicken with fresh green beans dish, you can store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually intensify overnight, making the dish even more delicious upon reheating. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of water when reheating. For the best results, gently reheat the dish in a skillet to maintain the texture of both the chicken and green beans.

This recipe is versatile and welcomes various substitutions based on your preferences and what ingredients you have on hand. You can swap chicken thighs for breasts for a richer flavor, or try different vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or snap peas instead of green beans. Additionally, you can customize the sauce by using beef broth, maple syrup, or brown sugar in place of honey, or opt for tamari for a gluten-free version. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a different twist, you can swap boneless, skinless chicken breasts with chicken thighs to add more flavor and moisture to the dish. While green beans are traditional, you can easily substitute them with other vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or snap peas for variation. These vegetables offer similar cooking times to green beans, ensuring they maintain that crisp-tender texture.

If you need to make this recipe gluten-free, opt for tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative that provides the same umami richness essential for Asian-inspired dishes. Additionally, you can use maple syrup or brown sugar as substitutes for honey in the sauce, offering different flavor profiles while still achieving that perfect balance of sweet and savory. These simple swaps allow you to customize the dish to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

Transform your chicken with fresh green beans into an elegant meal by serving it in individual mini cast iron skillets. Not only does this presentation look charming, but it also keeps the dish warm throughout the meal, ensuring each bite is as delicious as the first. To elevate the experience further, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top just before serving for a delightful crunch and nutty aroma.

For a fun and interactive dinner option, consider turning this chicken and green beans stir fry into a DIY lettuce wrap station. Place the chicken and green beans mixture in a serving bowl alongside a platter of fresh, crisp lettuce leaves. Your guests can scoop the flavorful filling into the lettuce cups, creating their own customized wraps. Serve with a side of steamed jasmine rice and a variety of toppings like sliced scallions, chopped peanuts, and a drizzle of sriracha for a burst of flavor in every bite.

FAQs for Green Bean Chicken Stir-Fry

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used as a flavorful and moist alternative to chicken breasts in this recipe. Feel free to make the switch based on your preference.

Can I use frozen green beans in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but make sure to thaw them and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture affecting the dish’s texture.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. This adjustment allows you to enjoy the dish without gluten-containing ingredients.

What are some side dishes that pair well with this chicken and green beans dish?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, cauliflower rice, or quinoa. For a complete meal, consider starting with miso soup and ending with fresh fruit like orange slices or mango for dessert.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Chicken with Fresh Green Beans recipe is a true winner for so many reasons. It’s a quick and easy meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, crisp green beans, and a savory-sweet sauce is simply irresistible. Plus, the versatility of this dish allows you to customize it to your liking with different protein or vegetable options.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. The balance of protein and veggies in one delicious dish, along with the convenience of one-pan preparation, makes it a must-have in your meal rotation. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to a satisfying and flavorful meal with this Chicken with Fresh Green Beans recipe. Your taste buds will thank you!