Name: Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces); 2 cups fresh green beans (trimmed); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (minced); 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon cornstarch (dissolved in 1 tablespoon water)

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When I think of a quick, delicious meal that brings warmth to the table, Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry always springs to mind. It’s one of those recipes that brings back memories of busy evenings after work when I wanted something nourishing but didn’t have much time. Picture this: the enticing aroma of sizzling chicken and vibrant green beans fills the kitchen, drawing everyone in. The best part? It’s not only quick to prepare, but it’s also a colorful dish that packs a punch of flavor. I often find myself making this recipe on weekdays when our family is scattered, and we need a wholesome meal that can be enjoyed by all. The simple yet vibrant combination of vegetables and tender chicken creates a satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. Whenever I make this, I’m reminded of how some of the simplest recipes can bring joy and comfort to our everyday lives.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
16 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Skillet, Mixing Bowl

Why This Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry Stands Out

1. Quick and Easy

One of the primary reasons I adore this Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip this dish up in no time. There’s something relieving about knowing you can make a wholesome meal quickly, especially on those hectic days.

2. Fresh and Flavorful

Using fresh green beans not only adds a pop of color but also provides a lovely crunch that complements the tender chicken. The vibrant flavors of garlic and ginger elevate the dish, making it far from ordinary.

3. Customizable

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Want to throw in some leftover bell peppers or carrots? Go for it! This adaptability keeps things exciting and ensures that I can make it over and over without feeling like I’m stuck in a rut.

4. Healthy and Balanced

Chicken is a lean protein source, while the green beans add essential vitamins and minerals. I love knowing that I’m serving something that nourishes my family without sacrificing taste. It’s a win-win scenario!

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

Another reason to love this Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry is its suitability for meal prep. I often make a bigger batch and pack it for lunches throughout the week. The flavors meld beautifully after sitting in the fridge, making it even more delicious the next day.

What Goes Into Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry

The ingredients for this Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry are not only simple but also work harmoniously together to create a vibrant dish. The star of our meal is the chicken, which is complemented by the crisp bite of fresh green beans. Each element plays a role in building a rich flavor profile that’s satisfying and nutritious.

1 tablespoon vegetable oil: This oil serves as the base for our stir fry, allowing the ingredients to cook beautifully and adding a subtle flavor.
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces: The main protein of the dish, chicken is quick to cook and absorbs the flavors of the sauce wonderfully.
2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed: These add not only crunch but also a burst of color to the dish.
2 cloves garlic, minced: This aromatic enhances the flavor and gives the dish an enticing aroma.
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced: Ginger adds a lovely warmth and zest that perfectly complements the chicken.
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce: This sauce provides a savory depth to the dish, tying all the flavors together.
1 tablespoon oyster sauce: This sauce adds a hint of sweetness and complexity.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar: A splash of acidity that brightens the flavors in the dish.
1 teaspoon sugar: Just a touch of sweetness balances the savory notes.
1 teaspoon cornstarch, dissolved in 1 tablespoon water: This will help thicken the sauce, giving it a lovely consistency.

Cooking Instructions for Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry

Cooking this Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry is a breeze, and the results are truly satisfying. Let’s get started!

First, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. It should shimmer slightly, indicating it’s hot enough to begin cooking. Once it’s hot, carefully add the chicken pieces. The key here is to not overcrowd the pan so that they can sear nicely. You want them to be golden and cooked through, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. This step is crucial; it allows the green beans to cook without steaming the chicken.
In the same skillet, add the trimmed green beans. Stir-fry them for about 4 minutes. During this time, they should turn vibrant green and start to soften slightly while retaining their crunch.
Next, add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. This is where the aroma becomes irresistible. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld together, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
Now it’s time to return the cooked chicken to the skillet. This combines all the flavors beautifully, and you’ll want everything to be heated through.
In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar together. This mixture will be the magic sauce that ties everything together. Pour it over the chicken and green beans in the skillet.
Finally, add the cornstarch mixture to the skillet. This will help thicken the sauce beautifully, giving a glossy finish to your dish. Stir everything well and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce has thickened and clings to the chicken and green beans.
Once done, remove it from the heat and admire your vibrant, delicious Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry. It’s ready to be served!

Things Worth Knowing

Use High Heat: Stir frying works best at high temperatures. This ensures that the chicken and vegetables get that nice sear without becoming mushy.
Ingredient Prep: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This reduces cooking time and helps maintain that delicious texture.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches is better than cramming everything in at once, which can steam the chicken instead of frying it.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh green beans and ginger for the best flavor. Frozen vegetables can work in a pinch, but fresh is always better.

Making Adjustments

Adjusting this Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry to suit your tastes is easy and fun. Here are some tips to make this dish your own:

Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should last for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the stir fry before adding the sauce. Just ensure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Pairing: Serve this dish with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version that still packs a punch of flavor.
Spice It Up: If you like heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper or chili garlic sauce to give it an extra kick.

Serving Ideas for Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry

Serving your Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry can be just as creative as making it. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

Serve Over Rice: A bed of fluffy steamed rice is the classic pairing that complements the stir fry perfectly.
Noodles: For a different twist, serve the stir fry over noodles, such as udon or rice noodles, to change up the texture.
Garnish: Top with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
Seasonal Pairing: In the spring, add some asparagus or snap peas for a seasonal touch, while in the fall, consider adding roasted squash.

FAQ

While fresh green beans are preferred for their crunch and vibrant flavor, you can use frozen if necessary. Just be sure to thaw them beforehand to help them cook evenly. Adding them frozen could lead to a watery stir fry, so a quick thaw is essential!

This Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce. You could also add a side of crispy spring rolls or a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing touch. The options are endless!

Storing leftovers of your Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry is easy! Just place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They should keep well for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of this stir fry, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Both options will absorb the flavors beautifully and give you that satisfying texture. Add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition!

Conclusion

The Chicken And Green Bean Stir Fry is a perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and nourishment, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. I encourage you to try this delightful dish and experience the joy it brings to your table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this stir fry is sure to become a favorite in your household.