Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious weeknight dinner that comes together quickly yet tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, this Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe is an absolute winner. Tender chunks of chicken breast meld perfectly with crisp green beans bathed in a glossy, honey-soy sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet. It’s a vibrant, satisfying dish that combines protein and veggies in one pan, making your dinner prep simple, healthy, and downright tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of straightforward, everyday ingredients that bring out the best in each other. Each item plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, delivering texture, and creating a harmonious color palette that’s as appealing as it is delicious.

• Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon): Used for cooking the chicken and green beans without overpowering the other flavors.
• Green beans (2 1/2 cups, trimmed and cut): Crisp and fresh, they add vibrant color and a satisfying snap to every bite.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 pound, cut into chunks): Lean and juicy, providing the hearty protein base for the dish.
• Minced garlic (2 teaspoons): Adds aromatic depth and a subtle kick of savory flavor.
• Low-sodium chicken broth (1/4 cup): Creates a flavorful, light sauce while keeping sodium in check.
• Soy sauce (1/4 cup): Brings umami richness and a perfect salt balance to the dish.
• Honey (3 tablespoons): Lends a subtle sweetness that beautifully contrasts the soy sauce.
• Corn starch (2 teaspoons): Thickens the sauce to a silky, glossy finish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance overall flavor.

How to Make Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Step 1: Cook the Green Beans

Start by heating 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil in a large pan set over medium heat. Toss in the trimmed green beans and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn tender yet retain their satisfying crunch. Once cooked, remove the green beans from the pan, place them on a plate, and cover to keep them warm. This ensures they stay bright and fresh until combined with the chicken later.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

After removing the green beans, wipe the pan clean with a paper towel and crank the heat up to high. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil and season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Lay the chicken in a single layer in the pan; you might need to work in batches, depending on your pan size. Let each piece cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Then add garlic and cook it for an extra 30 seconds to release its fragrant aroma, enhancing every bite.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Green Beans

Next, add your green beans back into the pan with the chicken. Cook together for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to warm the beans through and marry all the flavors.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While your chicken and green beans finish cooking, whisk together the chicken broth, honey, and soy sauce in a small bowl. In a separate smaller bowl, stir the cornstarch into a tablespoon of cold water until completely smooth. This cornstarch slurry will help thicken your sauce beautifully without clumps.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Pour the soy sauce mixture into the pan with the chicken and green beans. Stir quickly to coat everything evenly, cooking for about 30 seconds. Then whisk in your cornstarch mixture and bring the pan to a boil. Stir constantly for 1 more minute until the sauce thickens just enough to cling to the ingredients with a gorgeous glossy sheen.

Step 6: Serve

Finally, serve this scrumptious Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans piping hot, ideally over a bed of steamed rice or alongside your favorite grain. That sweet-savory sauce combined with tender chicken and crisp beans makes for a comforting meal that’s sure to become a staple in your rotation.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Garnishes

To elevate your dish, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions on top just before serving. These garnishes add not only visual appeal but a subtle crunch and fresh flavor that complements the richness of the sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own but pairs effortlessly with simple steamed jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside creamy mashed potatoes or garlic-infused noodles for extra comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken and green beans wrapped in lettuce cups or spoon them into whole wheat pita pockets for a casual lunch option. You could also toss the cooked chicken and beans with cooked noodles and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for an Asian-inspired noodle bowl variation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place any leftovers of Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners on busy days.

Freezing

You can freeze the leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind that green beans might become slightly softer after freezing and reheating, but the flavors will remain delightful.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help maintain the sauce’s silky texture and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw and drain the frozen green beans before cooking to prevent excess moisture from diluting your sauce. While fresh beans offer the best texture, frozen work well in a pinch.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, water is a fine substitute. For extra flavor, you could also use vegetable broth or even a splash of white wine, adjusting quantities to taste.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Definitely! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during garlic cooking or stirring in a teaspoon of sriracha into the sauce mixture will give the dish a gentle, delicious heat kick.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs will work beautifully and add a bit more juiciness and richness to the dish. Just adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a minute or two longer.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan?

Make sure your pan and oil are properly heated before adding chicken, and avoid moving the pieces too often. Letting them sear undisturbed for the initial few minutes helps develop that golden crust and naturally releases from the pan.

Final Thoughts

Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans is a shining example of how simple ingredients and straightforward techniques can come together to create something truly nourishing and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding family and friends, this recipe brings warmth and comfort without any fuss. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to dinner!

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