Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

If you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe is just what you need! It’s one of those meals that comes together in no time but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. I love making this dish on busy weeknights or when friends drop by unexpectedly. The vibrant green beans paired with succulent chicken pieces make for a colorful and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Whether you’re feeding the family after a long day or prepping for a cozy gathering, this dish is sure to please. Plus, it’s packed with flavor while remaining light and healthy. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become one of your go-to favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you can have dinner ready in under half an hour!
• Family-Friendly: The combination of chicken and green beans appeals to all ages, making it perfect for family meals.
• Healthy Ingredients: This dish is loaded with wholesome ingredients that are not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare the chicken and green beans ahead of time for a super convenient weeknight dinner.
• Flavor Packed: A delightful mix of soy sauce, honey, and garlic creates a tasty glaze that elevates the simple ingredients into something special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about this recipe is that it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Chicken and Green Beans

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil + 1 teaspoon (separated)
• 2 1/2 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

For the Sauce

• 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

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

One of the greatest things about this Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or your taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you’re looking for an alternative to chicken, try using turkey breast or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the veggies: Adding carrots or bell peppers can bring extra color and nutrients to your meal.
• Add some spice: Want a kick? Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or drizzle sriracha over the top before serving.
• Try different sauces: Experiment with teriyaki sauce or even a homemade ginger-soy glaze for new flavor profiles.

How to Make Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This step is crucial because it ensures your chicken gets that beautiful golden-brown sear which adds so much flavor!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken chunks to the pan. Season them with salt and pepper. Sauté until they are cooked through—about 5-7 minutes—stirring occasionally. Properly cooking the chicken until it’s no longer pink ensures it’s juicy and tender.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Next, add in the minced garlic. Stir it around in the pan for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. This step enhances the overall flavor profile of your dish; garlic brings warmth and depth.

Step 4: Incorporate Green Beans

Now it’s time to add those lovely green beans! Toss them in with the chicken and sauté for another 3-4 minutes. They should be bright green but still crunchy—this keeps them fresh and flavorful.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together low-sodium chicken broth (or water), soy sauce, honey, corn starch, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over your chicken and green beans in the skillet. This sauce will create a delicious glaze that ties everything together.

Step 6: Simmer Together

Let everything simmer together for about another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This final step melds all those wonderful flavors into each bite!

And there you have it! Enjoy your Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans as they warm your heart and fill your belly!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Cooking a delicious meal can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans turn out perfectly every time:

• Use fresh green beans: Fresh beans add a vibrant flavor and crisp texture to your dish. If you can, opt for them over frozen or canned varieties for the best results.
• Cut chicken evenly: Ensuring your chicken is cut into uniform chunks helps it cook evenly, preventing some pieces from being undercooked while others are overdone.
• Marinate for flavor: If you have a little extra time, marinating the chicken in the soy sauce mixture for 15-30 minutes can enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches if necessary allows each piece of chicken to sear properly, resulting in a more flavorful crust and juicy interior.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, or honey according to your palate. This way, you can create a dish that’s uniquely yours!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Serving this delightful dish can be both fun and creative! Here are some ideas on how to present your Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans beautifully on the table.

Garnishes

• Chopped scallions: These add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish wonderfully.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds gives a nutty flavor and an attractive touch that elevates your plate.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa: This fluffy grain is not only nutritious but also adds a nice texture contrast. Its subtle nuttiness pairs well with the chicken’s flavors.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green broccoli enhances both nutrition and color on your plate. It’s quick to prepare and offers a lovely crunch alongside the green beans.
• Brown rice: A classic choice that absorbs sauces beautifully! Its earthy flavor balances well with the sweet and savory notes of the chicken.
• Mixed greens salad: A fresh salad with seasonal veggies adds brightness and crunch. Top it with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side that complements the main dish.

Now, get ready to enjoy this wholesome meal that’s easy enough for any weeknight but delicious enough to feel like a special treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe is perfect for meal prep! It can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals throughout the week without any fuss.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool before freezing.
• Place the chicken and green beans in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen leftovers in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave on medium power until hot.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to keep it moist.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

Can I make Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans with other vegetables?

Absolutely! This dish is versatile. Feel free to substitute green beans with broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas—whatever you have on hand!

How can I ensure my chicken stays juicy in the Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe?

To keep your chicken juicy, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I use frozen green beans in this recipe?

Yes, frozen green beans work just fine! Just add them directly to the skillet without thawing; they may require an extra minute of cooking time.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! The Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe stores well and can be prepped in advance for quick weeknight dinners.

What can I serve with Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad. Enjoy experimenting with sides!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe a try! It’s one of those comforting dishes that brings warmth to your dinner table without requiring hours in the kitchen. Enjoy making it as much as I do, and feel free to share your thoughts or variations. Happy cooking!