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 busy weeknights or when you want a quick yet delicious meal. With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish is flavorful and satisfying, making it suitable for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of garlic, soy sauce, and honey elevates the taste of chicken and green beans, ensuring a delightful meal.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein from chicken and nutrients from green beans, this recipe is both wholesome and delicious.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete meal that can suit different preferences.
• Easy Cleanup: With minimal pots and pans needed, this recipe ensures less mess in your kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking of chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is perfectly sautéed.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop your ingredients efficiently while keeping your countertops clean.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting chicken and green beans quick and easy, reducing prep time significantly.

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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
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)

For the Green Beans

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

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons corn starch
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing the green beans thoroughly. Trim the ends and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. Measure out all other ingredients so you’re ready to cook.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 3: Add Garlic and Green Beans

Add minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the green beans to the skillet. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, chicken broth (or water), corn starch, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this mixture over the chicken and green beans in the skillet.

Step 5: Simmer Until Done

Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the green beans are tender but still vibrant in color. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Once cooked through, remove from heat. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve your Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans hot as is or over rice or noodles for added heartiness!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Serving Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans is a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish that will impress your family or guests.

With Rice

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

On a Salad

• Toss the chicken and green beans with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad option.

In a Wrap

• Place the chicken and green beans in a whole grain wrap along with avocado and shredded carrots for a tasty lunch on-the-go.

With Quinoa

• Pair with quinoa for a protein-packed dish that adds extra texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

To ensure your Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans come out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh green beans bring out the best flavor in this dish. Look for vibrant green beans without blemishes.

• Marinate the chicken: For more flavor, let the chicken marinate in soy sauce, honey, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

• Cook on high heat: Searing the chicken on high heat helps develop a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each piece of chicken enough space to cook evenly without steaming. Cook in batches if necessary.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Pairing side dishes with Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic make a comforting addition that complements the dish well.

2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized add sweetness and color to your plate.

3. Steamed Broccoli – A quick steam brings out broccoli’s bright color and crunch, adding nutrients without much effort.

4. Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb option that’s easy to prepare; just sauté until tender alongside your main dish.

5. Couscous Salad – Fluffy couscous mixed with diced veggies creates a light, flavorful side that’s easy to customize.

6. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus grilled until tender provides an elegant touch to your meal presentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Ignoring the oil temperature: Not heating the oil before adding the chicken can result in steaming instead of searing. Make sure the oil is hot enough for a nice browning effect.

• Overcooking the green beans: Cooking green beans too long can make them mushy. Aim for a bright green color by cooking them just until tender.

• Not seasoning adequately: Skipping salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Season your chicken and green beans well for a more delicious meal.

• Forgetting to measure ingredients: Eyeballing ingredients like soy sauce and honey can throw off the balance of flavors. Use measuring spoons for accuracy.

• Neglecting to cut uniform pieces: Irregular chicken chunks can cook unevenly. Cut both chicken and green beans into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

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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 it in the container.

Freezing Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Use medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans:

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans work well in this recipe. Just add a minute or two extra cooking time.

How do I customize Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. You can also switch up sauces based on your preference!

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

This dish pairs nicely with rice or quinoa for a complete meal. You could also serve it with a fresh salad.

How do I ensure my chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe.

Final Thoughts

Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans is a quick, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different veggies or sauces based on your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s healthy and simple!