Chicken and Green Beans

why make this recipe

Chicken and Green Beans is a fantastic dish that offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s easy to prepare, packed with protein from the chicken, and filled with the crunch of fresh green beans. This recipe is not only quick to make but also healthy, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners or a simple meal with family and friends.

how to make Chicken and Green Beans

Ingredients:

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

Directions:

1. Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the green beans and cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the beans are tender. Once done, remove them from the pan, place them on a plate, and cover.
2. Wipe the pan clean with a paper towel and turn the heat to high. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil.
3. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan in a single layer. You may need to do this step in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Return the green beans to the pan and cook for 2 more minutes or until they are warmed through.
6. In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, honey, and soy sauce. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water.
7. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the chicken and green beans; cook for 30 seconds. Then, whisk in the cornstarch and bring to a boil; cook for 1 more minute or until the sauce has just started to thicken, stirring constantly.
8. Serve immediately, with rice if desired.

how to serve Chicken and Green Beans

Serve Chicken and Green Beans hot right from the pan. You can pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. The flavorful sauce makes it great for drizzling over your rice, adding a delicious taste to every bite.

how to store Chicken and Green Beans

To store Chicken and Green Beans, let it cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a pan or microwave.

tips to make Chicken and Green Beans

1. For extra flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in soy sauce and honey for about 30 minutes before cooking.
2. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more color and nutrition.
3. Make sure not to overcook the green beans; they should still have a slight crunch.

variation

You can make this dish with different proteins, such as shrimp or tofu, for a different taste. You can also experiment with using different sauces, such as teriyaki or sweet and sour sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just add them to the pan without thawing, but cook them a little longer until they are tender.

2. Is this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free due to the soy sauce. You can substitute it with gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos if you need a gluten-free option.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Cook the chicken and green beans, then store them separately. Reheat and combine them before serving for the best taste.