Chicken and Green Beans
Hola! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a Florida girl falls in love with bold flavors and easy weeknight cooking, this chicken and green beans dish is one of my favorites to share. I grew up learning how to bring joy to the table with simple, wholesome meals, and this recipe does just that. Tender bites of chicken are seared until golden, then tossed with crisp green beans in a sticky honey garlic sauce that clings to every piece. It’s quick, flavorful, and one of my go-to recipes when I need a fast, healthy dinner. If you’re searching for green bean with chicken recipes, easy and fast chicken dinners, or good-for-you food, this one checks all the boxes.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | Asian-inspired |
| Best Season | Anytime |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and simple: Ready in 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Wholesome and balanced: Lean chicken and fresh green beans make this a nutritious option for cooking for diabetics dinners.
- Family-friendly flavor: The sweet and savory honey garlic sauce is mild, yet bold enough to satisfy adults and kids alike.
- Versatile and adaptable: Serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it low-carb on its own for a healthy chicken and beans dinner.
- Meal prep ready: This reheats beautifully, making it one of those recipes using whole foods you’ll turn to again and again.
Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Chicken and green beans coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. A quick, healthy stir fry perfect for busy weeknights.
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
Instructions
1. Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add green beans and cook 3-4 minutes until tender. Remove and set aside.
2. Wipe pan clean, turn heat to high, add remaining tablespoon oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
4. Return green beans to pan and cook 2 minutes until warmed through.
5. In a bowl whisk broth, honey, and soy sauce. In a small bowl mix cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water.
6. Pour soy sauce mixture over chicken and green beans, cook 30 seconds.
7. Whisk in cornstarch, bring to boil, cook 1 more minute until sauce thickens, stirring constantly.
8. Serve immediately, with rice if desired.
Notes
Cut chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
Use fresh green beans for best flavor and texture.
Adjust sauce to taste by adding more honey or soy sauce.
Pairs well with rice, quinoa, or noodles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 215
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 651mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 72mg
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
Ingredient Tips
| Ingredient | Tip |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | Cut into even 1-inch cubes for faster, even cooking. Thighs can be used for extra juiciness. |
| Green beans | Trim ends neatly and cut to bite-sized lengths for easier eating. Fresh beans give the best snap, but frozen work too. |
| Soy sauce | Low sodium keeps flavors balanced without being overly salty. |
| Honey | Adds natural sweetness and helps the sauce glaze beautifully. Maple syrup is a good substitute. |
| Garlic | Freshly minced gives the boldest flavor, though jarred works in a pinch. |
| Corn starch | Always whisk with cold water first to avoid clumps in the sauce. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add green beans and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove beans, set aside on a plate, and cover.
- Wipe skillet clean, increase heat to high, and add remaining tablespoon of oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then place in pan in a single layer. Cook 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. If necessary, cook in batches for best browning.
- Add garlic to the pan and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Return green beans to the skillet and toss with chicken for about 2 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk chicken broth, honey, and soy sauce together until smooth. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water.
- Pour honey soy mixture into skillet and stir to coat. Cook for 30 seconds, then whisk in cornstarch slurry. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly, for 1 minute until sauce thickens and clings to chicken and beans.
- Remove from heat and serve hot. Pair with steamed rice, noodles, or a light salad.
Helpful Tips
- Cut chicken into equal-sized cubes for consistent cooking.
- Use a wide skillet so the chicken can sear without steaming.
- Keep heat high when adding sauce to help it thicken quickly.
- Taste sauce before serving and adjust with extra honey or soy sauce to preference.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Stir fry in batches: Crowding the pan prevents browning, so cook chicken in layers if needed.
- Use fresh beans: The snap and color of fresh green beans really elevate the dish.
- Balance flavors: If it tastes too salty, add a squeeze of fresh lime or splash of water to mellow it out.
- Serve immediately: Honey garlic sauce tastes best when freshly cooked and glossy.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy honey garlic chicken: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or sriracha for a kick.
- Sesame chicken green beans: Stir in toasted sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds before serving.
- Cashew chicken variation: Toss in a handful of roasted cashews for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Low-carb version: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
This stir fry is great for meal prep. Store cooked chicken and green beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For freezing, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chicken and green beans with steamed jasmine rice, fluffy quinoa, or even over noodles. For presentation, sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped green onions. A side of miso soup or fresh cucumber salad makes it a complete meal.
Pairing Ideas
Pair this dish with light white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Riesling. For non-alcoholic options, green tea or sparkling water with lime is refreshing. As sides, consider fried rice, dumplings, or a simple Asian slaw.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce, or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs stay juicy and add a richer flavor to this dish.
What can I substitute for honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives, though each will slightly change the flavor.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
Do I need a wok for this recipe?
No, a large skillet works perfectly as long as you give the chicken room to sear.
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, but blanch them first to keep their bright color and texture.
How do I make it spicier?
Add red chili flakes, fresh sliced chili, or a drizzle of sriracha into the sauce.
Is this recipe diabetic-friendly?
It can fit into a balanced diabetic-friendly meal plan, especially if served with whole grains or cauliflower rice, but always check portion sizes.
Nutrition Information
| Serving Size | 1 cup |
|---|---|
| Calories | 215 |
| Protein | 27g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 15g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Warm up your table with a bowl of Roasted Green Beans and Carrots.
Conclusion
This chicken and green beans stir fry is the ultimate quick dinner, combining wholesome ingredients with bold honey garlic flavor. Try it once and it will quickly become one of your favorite easy and fast chicken recipes for dinner. Give it a go tonight and bring a little comfort, flavor, and joy to your table.
