Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is fast to prepare and packed with flavor thanks to the combination of soy sauce, honey, and garlic. The green beans remain crisp and vibrant, balancing the tender chicken. It’s a nutritious, balanced meal that’s easy to customize and perfect for busy days.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon vegetable oil + 1 teaspoon (separated)
2 ½ cups green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
2 teaspoons minced garlic
¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
¼ cup soy sauce
3 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons corn starch
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften but remain crisp. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Add the remaining 1 teaspoon oil to the skillet. Add chicken chunks, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch until smooth.
Pour the sauce into the skillet with the chicken. Return green beans to the skillet as well. Stir to coat everything evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: Approximately 25 minutes

Variations

Substitute green beans with broccoli, snap peas, or asparagus.
Add sliced bell peppers or carrots for extra color and crunch.
Use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Spice it up with red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
Swap honey for maple syrup or brown sugar for different sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, thaw and drain well before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Cut the chicken into even pieces and avoid overcooking.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, cook and store separately, then combine and reheat before serving.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.

What side dishes go well with this?

Steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles are great companions.

Can I use other oils?

Yes, olive oil, avocado oil, or sesame oil can be used for different flavor profiles.

How thick should the sauce be?

The sauce should be thick enough to coat the chicken and vegetables but not too gloopy. Adjust cornstarch as needed.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pan or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

How do I store leftovers?

Use airtight containers and refrigerate promptly after cooling.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that brings together tender chicken and crisp veggies in a flavorful sauce. Perfect for busy nights, it’s versatile and simple, making it a go-to recipe for satisfying dinners with minimal fuss.