Easy Chinese Chicken and Green Beans Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that comes together quickly but still packs a punch of flavor, you can’t go wrong with Easy Chinese Chicken and Green Beans. This vibrant recipe blends tender chicken with crisp green beans, all coated in a glossy, savory sauce that sings with garlic, ginger, and sesame. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or just want a delicious meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this dish delivers that authentic taste you love with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, everyday ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the succulent chicken bringing protein to the crisp green beans offering a fresh crunch. These components blend perfectly with aromatic aromatics and sauces to make an unforgettable dish.

• 1 lb boneless chicken breasts or tenders: Tender pieces cook quickly and soak up the sauce beautifully.
• 3 tablespoons corn starch: Helps create that irresistible silky coating on the chicken and sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing; adds subtle richness and helps everything cook evenly.
• 2 cups frozen green beans: Convenient, vibrant, and packed with fiber and color.
• 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce: The salty backbone of the dish, allowing you to control saltiness.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds that distinctive nutty, toasted flavor that elevates the entire recipe.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Punches up the aroma with its warm, fresh bite.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a mild, fragrant heat that brightens the dish.
• Pinch salt (or to taste): Balances the flavor perfectly.
• Pinch pepper: Adds subtle warmth without overpowering.
• 1/4 cup chopped green onion: For a fresh, crisp finish on top.
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds: Adds a beautiful crunch and nutty aroma for garnish.

How to Make Easy Chinese Chicken and Green Beans

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick, even cooking. Lightly coat the chicken with two tablespoons of the corn starch; this creates that lovely crispy texture you want after sautéing and helps thicken the sauce later on.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until the pieces are golden and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken onto a plate lined with a paper towel to drain excess oil while you move on to the next step.

Step 3: Cook the Green Beans

In the same pan, toss in the frozen green beans. Cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn tender but still crisp. Removing them promptly helps keep that vibrant green color and perfect texture. Set the green beans aside with the chicken for recombining later.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Now, pour the soy sauce and sesame oil into the pan. Add minced garlic, ground ginger, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil for one to two minutes. Meanwhile, mix the remaining corn starch with two to three tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk this into the pan to thicken the sauce, cooking for a few minutes until it reaches a glossy consistency.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the chicken and green beans to the pan, stirring well to coat with the luscious sauce. Let everything cook together for another two to three minutes so those flavors meld beautifully. Turn off the heat, cover the pan, and let the dish rest for five minutes to deepen the taste. Finally, sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds to add a burst of color and texture before serving.

How to Serve Easy Chinese Chicken and Green Beans

Garnishes

Sprinkling chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top not only adds visual appeal but also layers in fresh flavor and a pleasant crunch. You can also add a small drizzle of extra sesame oil for an even more aromatic finish if you love that nutty essence.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or even cauliflower rice if you’re watching carbs. For an extra green touch, consider serving alongside a simple cucumber salad or lightly sautéed bok choy to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Easy Chinese Chicken and Green Beans over a bed of noodles, or pile it high in lettuce cups for a refreshing handheld option. It also works beautifully spooned over a quinoa bowl or wrapped into warm tortillas for an East-meets-West fusion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken and green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to deepen as it sits, making tasty lunches or quick dinners during the week.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, too. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, and freeze for up to two months. Be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist. Microwaving works in a pinch, but stirring halfway through helps prevent uneven heating and keeps the sauce nice and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh green beans work wonderfully. Just blanch them briefly before adding to the pan to ensure they cook to the perfect tenderness without losing their vibrant color.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh. Coat and cook in the same way to get a delightful texture and soak up that savory sauce.

What can I substitute for corn starch?

Arrowroot powder or potato starch are great alternatives if you don’t have corn starch on hand. They perform similarly by thickening the sauce with that lovely glossy finish.

Can I adjust the spice levels?

This recipe is mild and flavorful, but you can easily add chili flakes or a splash of chili oil to give it a little kick if you enjoy some heat in your meals.

How long does it take to make this dish?

The whole process takes about 20 to 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect quick meal that doesn’t sacrifice any flavor or satisfaction.

Final Thoughts

Easy Chinese Chicken and Green Beans is a fantastic recipe to have in your cooking rotation when you want dinner on the table fast but crave bold, comforting flavors. It’s cozy yet fresh, simple yet elegant, and always manages to impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your favorite go-to meals in no time!

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