Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans: The Ultimate Healthy Dinner Recipe
Introduction to Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans
If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, look no further than this Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe. Packed with wholesome ingredients and ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. With tender chicken, vibrant green beans, and a sweet and savory sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
A Personal Story Behind My Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans Journey
Cooking has always been a cherished activity in my family. I remember my grandmother preparing simple yet delicious meals that brought everyone together around the dinner table. One of those favorites was a chicken and vegetable stir-fry that inspired my version of this Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe. It’s a dish that evokes warm memories and reminds me of the importance of sharing meals with loved ones.
What Makes This Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and versatility. The combination of juicy chicken breast and crisp green beans creates a delightful texture, while the honey-soy sauce adds a unique twist that elevates the dish. You can easily customize it by adding other vegetables or spices, making it a go-to meal for any occasion. Plus, it’s healthy and satisfying, making it perfect for anyone looking to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen.
The Full Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon vegetable oil (divided)
- 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 cornstarch
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the Green Beans: In a large pan, heat 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the green beans and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are tender. Once done, remove them from the pan and cover to keep warm. Tip: Be careful not to overcook the beans; you want them to remain vibrant and crisp!
- Cook the Chicken: Wipe the pan clean and increase the heat to high. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Tip: Cooking in batches may help achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked green beans to the pan and stir everything together. Cook for another 2 minutes until the green beans are warmed through.
- Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth.
- Thicken the Sauce: Pour the soy sauce mixture over the chicken and green beans in the pan. Cook for 30 seconds, then whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Bring to a boil and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Tip: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Enjoy your delicious chicken and green beans immediately, and consider serving it over rice for a complete meal! Tip: A sprinkle of sesame seeds can add a nice finishing touch!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans
This dish is incredibly versatile! Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for added texture and heartiness. For a lighter option, consider serving the chicken and green beans on a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens. You can also mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for a colorful and nutritious twist. Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey according to your taste preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans
Can I use frozen green beans? Yes, frozen green beans work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and green beans in advance and reheat them when ready to eat.
Enjoy this delightful and nutritious meal!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 300
- Servings: 4
Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 2.5 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
- 0.25 cup low sodium chicken broth or water
- 0.25 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pan, heat 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the green beans and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are tender. Once done, remove them from the pan and cover to keep warm.
- Wipe the pan clean and increase the heat to high. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return the cooked green beans to the pan and stir everything together. Cook for another 2 minutes until the green beans are warmed through.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth.
- Pour the soy sauce mixture over the chicken and green beans in the pan. Cook for 30 seconds, then whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Bring to a boil and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Enjoy your delicious chicken and green beans immediately, and consider serving it over rice for a complete meal!