Introduction
Chicken Green Bean Stir Fry is the perfect weeknight meal fast, healthy, and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavor. It combines tender chicken pieces with crisp green beans, all coated in a glossy garlic soy sauce that tastes as good as takeout but lighter and fresher. Growing up, stir fry dishes were a family staple quick to cook, packed with vegetables, and endlessly versatile. This version captures that same simplicity but with a refined balance of savory and slightly sweet notes. The honey-sesame soy sauce ties everything together beautifully while keeping the ingredients bright and crisp. The best part? Everything cooks in one pan in under 25 minutes, making cleanup effortless. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking last-minute, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort, proving that healthy dinners can be both quick and crave-worthy.
The Basics of the Recipe
This recipe is inspired by traditional Asian stir fry techniques where high heat and quick cooking preserve freshness and flavor. The chicken is sliced thin to sear quickly and stay tender, while the green beans keep their crunch for texture contrast. The sauce is a simple yet powerful mix of soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey. Together, they create a perfect glaze that clings to every bite. Unlike heavy takeout stir fries, this homemade version uses minimal oil and no added thickeners beyond cornstarch, resulting in a lighter, cleaner dish. It’s flexible too — you can easily swap proteins, add colorful vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or adjust sweetness and spice to taste. Simple ingredients, fast cooking, and bold flavors make this stir fry a go-to dinner for any night of the week.
Quick Recipe Snapshot
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 4
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Detailed Ingredients List
Main Ingredients:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced against the grain
2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
2 green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)
1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
Sauce Ingredients:
3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce or hoisin sauce
1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water
½ tsp sesame oil for finishing
Notes and Substitutions: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variation. Add red bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for color. Use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free diets. For heat, add red pepper flakes or chili oil.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slice the chicken thinly and pat dry with paper towels for better searing. In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, vinegar, cornstarch slurry, and sesame oil. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining oil to the pan and toss in green beans. Stir fry 3–4 minutes until bright green and blistered. Add a splash of water, cover for one minute to steam slightly, then uncover to evaporate moisture.
- Push beans to one side and add garlic and ginger to the center. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return chicken to the pan and pour in the sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly, about 2–3 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately with rice or noodles.
Pro Tips, Substitutions & Variations
Slice chicken evenly to ensure fast cooking. Always use high heat and avoid overcrowding to maintain texture. Add the cornstarch slurry near the end for a glossy finish. Marinate chicken in a teaspoon of soy sauce and cornstarch for extra tenderness. Substitute green beans with asparagus or snow peas for a similar texture. Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for gluten-free. Add chili paste for spice, or cashews for crunch. Finish with lime zest or juice for brightness. Serve over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips
Mix the sauce up to three days ahead and refrigerate. Slice chicken and trim beans a day early for quicker cooking. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to four days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for long periods to keep texture crisp. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. Consume within one month when frozen.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles to absorb the sauce. Pair with cucumber salad, steamed dumplings, or vegetable spring rolls for a complete meal. Garnish with green onions, cilantro, or toasted sesame seeds. For drinks, pair with green tea, citrus water, or sparkling ginger soda. Complement with light soups like miso or egg drop for balance.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving: Calories 280, Protein 28 g, Carbohydrates 12 g, Sugars 6 g, Fat 12 g, Saturated Fat 2 g, Fiber 3 g, Sodium 540 mg, Cholesterol 70 mg.
For a lighter version, use chicken breast, reduce oil, and omit cornstarch. Use low-sodium soy sauce and coconut aminos to reduce sodium. Naturally gluten-free when using tamari.
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen green beans? Yes, thaw and dry them first to avoid excess moisture. Fresh beans provide a better crunch.
Can I change the protein? Shrimp, beef, or tofu work great. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Do I need a wok? A wok is ideal, but a large nonstick skillet works perfectly if kept hot.
How can I make it spicier? Add chili paste, sriracha, or red pepper flakes.
Can I meal prep this? Yes, it keeps up to four days and reheats well with rice or noodles.
Closing Section
Chicken Green Bean Stir Fry delivers everything you want in a quick meal healthy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The tender chicken, crisp beans, and savory garlic sauce come together in under 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights. It’s a versatile recipe that can adapt to whatever ingredients you have and always tastes fresh and balanced. Once you try it, it’ll become part of your regular rotation. Share it on Facebook or Pinterest, tag @RecipesList00, and inspire others to enjoy easy, homemade stir fry dinners. For more weeknight favorites, explore Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta, Crispy Chicken & Veggie Bake, or Beef and Cheese Chimichangas.