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 a delicious meal without the hassle. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and suitable for various occasions—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, you can have dinner ready in no time.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of soy sauce, honey, and garlic brings out amazing flavors in the chicken and green beans.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from green beans, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile Meal: You can serve it as is or pair it with rice or noodles for a heartier option.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures even cooking and easy cleanup.
• Knife: A sharp knife allows for safe and efficient chopping of ingredients.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in the dish.

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 Sauce

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons corn starch

For the Green Beans

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

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing and trimming your green beans. Cut them into 1-inch pieces. Next, cut your chicken breast into bite-sized chunks. Mince the garlic as well.

Step 2: Cook the Green Beans

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the green beans to the skillet.
– Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
– Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet, add another teaspoon of vegetable oil if needed. Add the chicken chunks to the skillet.
– Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are browned on all sides.
– Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey, chicken broth (or water), corn starch, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the sauce over cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything.
– Add back in sautéed green beans.
– Cook together for an additional 3-4 minutes until heated through and sauce thickens slightly.

Enjoy your Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans warm! This quick dish will surely become a favorite in your weeknight rotation.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

This Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans dish is versatile and can be served in several delightful ways. Whether you are hosting a family dinner or preparing a quick meal for yourself, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the chicken and green beans over fluffy rice for a comforting meal. You can use white, brown, or jasmine rice for added flavor.

With Quinoa

• Pair the dish with quinoa for a nutritious twist. The nutty flavor of quinoa complements the savory chicken and fresh green beans perfectly.

Wrapped in Lettuce

• For a light option, wrap the chicken and green beans in large lettuce leaves. This makes for a refreshing, low-carb meal that’s easy to enjoy.

Topped with Nuts

• Sprinkle toasted almonds or cashews over the chicken and green beans for an added crunch. This enhances the texture and adds healthy fats to the dish.

How to Perfect Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

To make this recipe truly shine, follow these simple tips that will ensure your chicken breast and green beans turn out perfectly every time.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh green beans rather than canned ones for better texture and flavor.
• Marinate Chicken: Letting the chicken marinate in soy sauce and honey for 30 minutes prior can enhance its flavor.
• Cook on High Heat: Cooking on high heat helps achieve a nice sear on the chicken, locking in moisture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper at the end for best results.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking time to avoid dry chicken; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Use Leftovers Creatively: Leftover chicken can be used in salads or sandwiches for another meal.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

When serving Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans, it’s great to have complementary side dishes that round out your meal. Here are some perfect pairings:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic are a classic side that pairs well with this dish.

2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes add a delicious contrast with their natural sweetness; roast them until they’re crispy outside.

3. Cauliflower Rice
   A low-carb alternative to traditional rice that is light yet filling, cauliflower rice absorbs flavors beautifully.

4. Steamed Broccoli
   Steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrition while balancing out the savory flavors of the main dish.

5. Couscous Salad
   A light couscous salad with vegetables provides freshness; toss it with lemon juice for added zing.

6. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness and crunch; it’s perfect during summer months.

7. Zucchini Noodles
   Spiralized zucchini noodles offer a fun, low-carb option that pairs nicely with savory sauces.

8. Baked Beans
   A hearty side of baked beans adds protein and richness; opt for a vegetarian version to keep it light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans, it’s important to steer clear of common errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Bold seasoning – Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Bold overcooking – Cooking the chicken too long makes it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C).
• Bold skipping prep – Failing to prep ingredients beforehand can lead to chaos in the kitchen. Have everything ready before you start cooking.
• Bold ignoring cook times – Not paying attention to cooking times for the green beans can make them mushy. Cook them until just tender for the best texture.
• Bold using low-quality broth – Poor-quality broth affects the overall taste. Opt for a low-sodium broth for better flavor control.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm on medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans.

How do I make Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans?

To make this dish, sauté chicken pieces with garlic, then add green beans, broth, soy sauce, honey, and thicken with cornstarch.

Can I customize Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauce ingredients based on your taste preferences.

What sides pair well with Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans?

Consider serving with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How can I ensure my chicken is juicy in Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans?

Avoid overcooking by monitoring internal temperature with a meat thermometer.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe is not only quick but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting flavors. Give it a try for a delicious weeknight dinner!