Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Some nights just call for a simple dinner that doesn’t require much thinking. This Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe is perfect for those busy evenings when you want something quick, delicious, and satisfying. With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is suitable for family dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. The combination of juicy chicken and crisp green beans creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making it an ideal weeknight meal.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of soy sauce, honey, and garlic gives the chicken a savory-sweet flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the green beans, this dish is both healthy and satisfying.
• Versatile Meal: You can easily swap out the green beans for other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers based on your preference.
• Family-Friendly: With its simple flavors, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your kitchen tools to make the process smoother. Having everything ready will help you whip up this meal in no time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or frying pan: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the chicken while allowing you to sauté the garlic and vegetables properly.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board makes chopping ingredients safe and efficient.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your dish.
• Measuring spoons: Precision in measuring ingredients like soy sauce and honey contributes to the overall taste.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil + 1 teaspoon (separated)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic

For the Green Beans

• 2 1/2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons corn starch

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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

How to Make Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing and trimming your green beans. Cut them into 1-inch pieces. Next, chop your chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the chicken chunks. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown on all sides.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Stir frequently for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine low-sodium chicken broth (or water), soy sauce, honey, corn starch, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat evenly.

Step 6: Add Green Beans

Add trimmed green beans to the skillet. Pour in an additional teaspoon of vegetable oil if needed. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until green beans are tender but still crisp.

Step 7: Serve

Once everything is cooked through, remove from heat. Serve hot over rice or enjoy as is!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

This dish is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a light meal or a hearty dinner, there are many options to enhance your dining experience.

With Rice

• Serve the chicken and green beans over a bed of fluffy rice for a filling meal. White, brown, or jasmine rice all work well.

In a Wrap

• Use tortillas to create a delicious wrap filled with the chicken and green beans. Add some fresh veggies and sauce for extra flavor.

On a Salad

• For a lighter option, top your favorite greens with the chicken and green beans. Drizzle with dressing to make it refreshing.

With Quinoa

• Pair this dish with quinoa for a protein-packed side. Quinoa adds a nutty flavor that complements the chicken nicely.

How to Perfect Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

To ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken breasts and green beans will enhance the flavors of your dish significantly.
• Marinate the chicken: Letting the chicken sit in soy sauce and honey for 30 minutes before cooking can greatly improve its taste.
• Cook on high heat: Searing the chicken over medium-high heat helps create a nice golden crust while keeping it juicy inside.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste your dish before serving. Add salt, pepper, or additional soy sauce according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and balance out the flavors of the main dish.
2. Steamed Broccoli: This classic side adds color and is rich in nutrients, making it a healthy choice.
3. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for an indulgent touch that everyone loves.
4. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots complement the savory flavors of the chicken beautifully.
5. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad with herbs adds texture and lightness to your meal.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob offers sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes like this one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people find cooking chicken breast and green beans easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold preparation: Not properly prepping your ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Always chop your chicken and green beans into uniform pieces for consistent results.

• Bold overcooking: Cooking the chicken breasts too long makes them dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F for perfect juiciness.

• Bold seasoning: Forgetting to season can leave your dish bland. Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and other spices to enhance flavors.

• Bold timing: Adding green beans too late can result in a mushy texture. Begin cooking them at the start to keep them crisp and vibrant.

• Bold using the wrong pan: A non-stick skillet helps prevent sticking and burning. Use the right cookware for an easier cooking experience.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

• Bold oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Bold microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 1 minute, stirring in between until hot.
• Bold stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, stirring frequently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to season Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans?

For maximum flavor, use a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Fresh herbs can also elevate the taste!

Can I customize this Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for variety. Experiment with spices too!

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the chicken breast.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! Prepare everything ahead of time, refrigerate separately, and cook just before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Its simplicity allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings. Try it today for a quick yet delicious meal your family will love!