Standing in my kitchen, the sound of sizzling chicken fills the air, and I’m reminded of the simple joys of home-cooked meals. This Healthy Marinated Chicken Stir Fry with Green Beans is my go-to weeknight wonder, and for good reason! Packed with tender, juicy chicken marinated in a delectable sauce, this dish not only promises a burst of flavor but also a wholesome approach to dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. With its vibrant green beans and carrots, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Plus, you can easily customize it with broccoli for a delightful twist. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or enjoying a solo night in, this stir fry is sure to bring comfort and satisfaction. So, what’s your favorite vegetable twist for your stir-fries? Let’s dive in!
Why is This Stir Fry So Special?
Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious and homemade.
Flavor-Packed: The marinated chicken is flavorful and juicy, complemented by a rich sauce that brings everything together beautifully.
Healthy Twist: Featuring lean protein and crisp vegetables like green beans and carrots, this meal is a health-conscious option the whole family will love.
Customizable: Flexibility is key! Feel free to switch out green beans for broccoli or other veggies, creating endless variations to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish satisfies everyone’s palate, making it a real winner! If you’re looking for more tasty chicken ideas, check out my Chicken Caesar Sandwich and One Pan Chicken recipes!
Chicken Breast and Green Beans Recipe
• Not just for dinner!
For the Stir Fry
- Chicken Breasts – Ideal for a lean protein option; ensures tender bites in every forkful.
- Green Beans – Brings vibrant color and crunch; swap with broccoli if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Carrots – Adds a touch of sweetness; zucchini can also be a great alternative for variety.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor profile; it’s best for that aromatic touch.
- Oil – Perfect for sautéing; olive oil can be used for a healthier fat option.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to cater to your taste preferences.
- Oyster Sauce – Provides umami depth; for a vegetarian version, consider using mushroom sauce.
- Soy Sauce – Adds saltiness and complexity; opt for gluten-free tamari if needed.
- Shaoxing Wine – This imparts richness; dry sherry can work in its place if unavailable.
- Cornstarch – Used as a tenderizer and thickener; arrowroot powder can be a suitable substitute.
Enjoy creating your delicious Chicken Breast and Green Beans Recipe, bursting with flavor and health benefits!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Breast and Green Beans Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken breasts with oyster sauce, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, minced garlic, cornstarch, and black pepper. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor absorption.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat until it shimmers. Add the marinated chicken breasts in a single layer, allowing them to sear without stirring for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the green beans and sliced carrots. Pour in a splash of water to create steam and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for about 4 minutes, or until the vegetables turn tender yet still crisp, then remove the lid to continue.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
Stir the vegetables and add minced garlic to the pan, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. This adds an aromatic layer to the veggies, blending seamlessly into the upcoming sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Thicken
Return the seared chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Cover and cook together for 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Afterward, remove the lid, add a tablespoon of water to the pan, and stir everything together for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Serve the Dish
Plate your delicious chicken breast and green beans stir fry over a bed of freshly steamed rice or quinoa. This vibrant and healthy dish is now ready to be enjoyed, offering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors in every bite.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Breast and Green Beans Recipe
Fridge: Store your leftover chicken breast and green beans stir fry in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps the dish fresh while maintaining its delicious flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stir fry in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the flavors.
Meal Prep: This stir fry works wonderfully for meal prep! Prepare on a Sunday and enjoy hearty meals throughout the week without the hassle of cooking each night.
Chicken Breast and Green Beans Variations
Feel free to customize your stir fry with these delicious ideas that will excite your taste buds and enhance your meal!
-
Broccoli Swap: Replace green beans with broccoli florets for a hearty twist. The tender, slightly crunchy texture perfectly complements the chicken.
-
Bell Pepper Blast: Add vibrant bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness. Mix red, yellow, and green for a visually stunning dish!
-
Zucchini Addition: Thinly slice zucchini for a soft, earthy flavor. It cooks quickly, making it a great last-minute addition to your stir fry.
-
Spicy Kick: Toss in sliced jalapeños or douse with red pepper flakes for a little heat. This simple addition can bring the perfect zing to your meal!
-
Herb Infusion: Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil before serving. The bursts of fresh herbs elevate the dish, providing brightness with each bite.
-
Cashew Crunch: Top your stir fry with toasted cashews for a nutty crunch. They add flavor and satisfying texture that makes every bite even better.
For more inspirations, opt for a comforting meal like a Chicken Stuffing Casserole or a zesty Street Corn Chicken to diversify your dinner repertoire!
What to Serve with Healthy Marinated Chicken Stir Fry with Green Beans
Spice up your weeknight dinner by pairing this delicious stir fry with complementary sides that enhance its vibrant flavors!
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy and aromatic base that soaks up the savory sauce, bringing every bite together harmoniously.
- Quinoa Salad: This nutty side adds a wholesome crunch, perfectly balancing the tender vegetables and juicy chicken.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, they are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
- Miso Soup: Its warm umami flavors provide a soothing contrast to the stir fry, making for a comforting meal.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad offers a crisp bite that complements the tender chicken beautifully.
- Chilled Sesame Noodles: With their nutty dressing, these noodles provide a delightful side that enhances the stir fry’s flavors.
- Coconut Iced Tea: This subtly sweet and refreshing drink cools down the heat from the stir fry while adding an exotic twist.
- Chocolate-Covered Fortune Cookies: For a fun and sweet conclusion, these treats add a delightful crunch and end your meal on a note of joy.
Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures with these delightful pairings for your Healthy Marinated Chicken Stir Fry with Green Beans!
Expert Tips for Chicken Breast and Green Beans Recipe
- Hot Pan First: Ensure your skillet is hot before searing the chicken; this helps achieve a beautiful caramelization and prevents sticking.
- Minimal Stirring: Avoid stirring the chicken too often while cooking; let it develop that irresistible golden-brown crust that enhances the flavor of your stir fry.
- Extra Flavor Sauce: For a saucier dish, consider doubling the marinade (omit wine and garlic) and substitute water with this mixture as it cooks.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and colorful vegetables for the best flavor and nutritional value, enhancing your chicken breast and green beans recipe.
- Storage Savvy: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months, perfect for quick meals later!
Make Ahead Options
This Healthy Marinated Chicken Stir Fry with Green Beans is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the chicken breasts in the sauce for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Simply refrigerate the marinated chicken and pull it out when you’re ready to cook. The vegetables, like green beans and carrots, can also be prepped ahead—just wash and chop them up to 3 days prior and store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them crisp. When it’s time to cook, stir-fry the marinated chicken, sauté the vegetables, and finish with the aromatics for a quick meal that is just as delicious and satisfying as it is fresh!
Chicken Breast and Green Beans Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for stir fry?
For this stir fry, I recommend using chicken breasts for a leaner option, as they stay tender and juicy. However, chicken thighs can also be used for added richness. Choose skinless pieces for easy cooking and healthier results!
How do I store leftovers of the chicken breast and green beans stir fry?
Store your leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This approach helps retain the vibrant flavors and textures. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze this stir fry?
Absolutely! To freeze your chicken breast and green beans recipe, allow it to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave.
How can I customize this stir fry with different vegetables?
The beauty of stir fry lies in its versatility! You can easily replace green beans with broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a delightful twist. Simply follow the same cooking instructions, adjusting the timing slightly to ensure the new vegetables achieve a perfect crisp-tender texture.
Is this stir fry suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! To make this chicken breast and green beans recipe gluten-free, be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce and check that your oyster sauce is gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy all the delicious flavors without the gluten!
Delicious Chicken Breast and Green Beans Recipe for Quick Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken breasts with oyster sauce, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, minced garlic, cornstarch, and black pepper. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor absorption.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat until it shimmers. Add the marinated chicken breasts in a single layer, allowing them to sear without stirring for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the green beans and sliced carrots. Pour in a splash of water to create steam and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for about 4 minutes, or until the vegetables turn tender yet still crisp, then remove the lid to continue.
- Stir the vegetables and add minced garlic to the pan, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Cover and cook together for 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Afterward, remove the lid, add a tablespoon of water to the pan, and stir everything together for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Plate your delicious chicken breast and green beans stir fry over a bed of freshly steamed rice or quinoa.
Leave a Reply