Some nights, we all need a meal that’s faster than scrolling through takeout menus and healthier than what shows up in that brown paper bag. That’s where this Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry swoops in like a weeknight superhero. It’s quick, colorful, and delicious—and yes, it makes the kitchen smell like heaven with just garlic, ginger, and soy sauce sizzling in the pan.
If you’ve got picky eaters at home (or, let’s be real, a picky self who just doesn’t want bland chicken for the third night in a row), this dish is your new go-to.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry
- Time-saving: From start to finish, you’re looking at about 25 minutes. That’s less time than an episode of your favorite show.
- Healthy-ish: Lean chicken, fresh green beans, and a light soy-honey sauce—comfort food that doesn’t weigh you down.
- Customizable: Add red pepper flakes for a kick, toss in bell peppers for more color, or swap rice for noodles if you’re in the mood to twirl.
- Family-friendly: My kids loved this so much it became my “peace treaty” dinner when they couldn’t agree on what to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
How To Make Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry
- Cook the chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside. - Sauté the green beans:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the green beans and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until bright green and just tender-crisp. - Add the aromatics:
Stir in the garlic and ginger. Let them sizzle for 1 minute until fragrant—your kitchen will smell amazing at this point. - Bring it all together:
Return the chicken to the skillet. In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy). Pour the sauce into the skillet and toss to coat. Cook 2–3 more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. - Serve and enjoy:
Spoon your stir-fry over fluffy rice or slurp it with noodles. Dinner = done.
Cooking Tips for Foolproof Stir-Fry
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you pile in too much chicken at once, it’ll steam instead of sear. Cook in two batches if needed.
- Prep before you start: Stir-fries move fast. Chop, measure, and whisk everything ahead of time so you’re not scrambling mid-sizzle.
- Green bean shortcut: If you’re really pressed for time, blanch your green beans earlier in the day and store them in the fridge. They’ll cook even faster.
FAQs About Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, but thaw them first and pat them dry. Fresh green beans give the best crunch, though.
Can I swap the chicken for something else?
Absolutely. Try shrimp for a lighter version or thinly sliced beef for a heartier take.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to keep that stir-fry texture.
A Stir-Fry You’ll Make Again and Again
This Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry is everything a busy evening needs: fast, flavorful, and satisfying without the fuss. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep in your back pocket, ready to whip up when life gets hectic but you still want a homemade meal that makes everyone happy.
So the next time you’re tempted to hit “order now” on takeout, remember—this dish is faster, fresher, and maybe even more fun. Give it a try tonight, and let the magic of chicken do the rest.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If this Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry hit the spot, you’ll definitely want to try some of these other easy and flavor-packed dishes from Chicken Magic Recipes:
- Keep the quick weeknight magic alive with this bold and colorful Firecracker Chicken Stir-Fry—a perfect pick if you love a little extra heat.
- For another Asian-inspired favorite, check out this saucy and satisfying Cashew Chicken that pairs beautifully with rice or noodles.
- Craving cozy comfort? My creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is like a warm hug on a plate—ideal for family dinners.
- Or lighten things up with a refreshing Thai Quinoa Salad, a vibrant side that balances perfectly with stir-fry nights.
Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry is a quick 25-minute dinner made with tender chicken, crisp green beans, and a savory garlic-ginger soy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights and full of flavor!
Ingredients
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the skillet. Stir-fry the green beans for 3–4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Return chicken to the skillet. In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Pour over chicken and beans, stir to coat, and cook 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
For extra crunch, toss in bell peppers or carrots with the green beans.
If using frozen green beans, thaw and pat dry before stir-frying.
Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicier kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main course
- Method: Stir-Fry, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 72 mg