There’s something undeniably satisfying about a homemade meal that brings the family together, and this String Bean Chicken does just that. Picture the vibrant green of string beans contrasting with tender pieces of chicken, all enveloped in a savory sauce that’s bursting with flavor. This dish isn’t just quick and easy; it’s a fantastic way to elevate your weeknight dinners without the usual takeout routine.
I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I craved something wholesome yet simple to whip up for dinner. Armed with a few staple ingredients and just 30 minutes, I was able to transform my kitchen into a delightful haven of delicious aromas. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone just trying to shake off fast food monotony, this String Bean Chicken will impress your loved ones and keep your taste buds dancing. Join me on this culinary adventure and rediscover the joy of home-cooked meals!
Why is String Bean Chicken a must-try?
Simplicity: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor-packed: The savory sauce melds beautifully with tender chicken and crisp string beans for a delightful burst of taste.
Nutritious: With lean protein and vibrant veggies, it’s a deliciously healthy alternative to takeout.
Crowd-pleaser: The combination of flavors and textures will impress family and friends alike.
Versatile: Pair it with rice, noodles, or even serve it over a salad for easy variations!
For more quick recipes that make weeknight cooking a breeze, check out our collection of delicious 30-minute meals.
String Bean Chicken Ingredients
Get ready to create a savory delight that will brighten your weeknight dinner!
For the Chicken Marinade
- Boneless skinless chicken breast – 1 lb; use high-quality chicken for the best texture.
- Light soy sauce – 1 tablespoon; enhances the dish’s umami flavor.
- Shaoxing wine – 1 tablespoon; it adds depth and richness to the chicken.
- Cornstarch – 2 teaspoon; helps tenderize the chicken and gives it a lovely gloss.
- Water – 1 tablespoon; balances the marinade and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Vegetable oil – 2 teaspoon; neutral flavor that allows other ingredients to shine.
For the Sauce
- Chicken broth (low sodium) – ¾ cup; keeps the dish flavorful without excess salt.
- Light soy sauce – 1 ½ tablespoon; adds saltiness and slight sweetness.
- Oyster sauce – 1 tablespoon; enriches the sauce with a deep umami kick.
- Dark soy sauce – ½ tablespoon; gives the sauce a rich color and flavor profile.
- Granulated sugar – 1 tablespoon; balances the savory notes with a hint of sweetness.
- Cornstarch – 2 teaspoon; thickens the sauce for a glossy finish.
- Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon; a finishing touch that adds a nutty aroma.
For the Vegetables
- Yellow onion – ½ medium; sweetens the dish while adding texture.
- Garlic – 5 cloves; infuses your meal with aromatic goodness.
- String beans – 1 lb; vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch that complement the chicken.
Now, armed with these String Bean Chicken Ingredients, let’s embark on the path to deliciousness!
How to Make String Bean Chicken
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Marinate the Chicken: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken breast with light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, water, and vegetable oil. Mix until well-coated, then marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavor.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch until the sugar dissolves. Set this savory blend aside for later.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Sear for 1-2 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
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Cook the String Beans: In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Toss in the string beans and stir-fry for about 6 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they reach your desired tenderness.
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Sauté Onions and Garlic: Push the string beans to one side of the pan. Add 1 tablespoon of oil, then add sliced onions and chopped garlic. Sauté for 1 minute or until fragrant and softened. Next, pour in the sauce and simmer for about 1 minute until thickened.
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Combine Everything: Return the sautéed chicken to the pan along with sesame oil. Toss everything together for about 30 seconds, ensuring that the chicken and veggies are well-coated in the sauce.
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Serve: Plate your delicious String Bean Chicken and serve it alongside steamed white rice for a complete meal.
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and texture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with String Bean Chicken?
A delightful home-cooked meal deserves the perfect companions to elevate your dining experience.
- Steamed White Rice: The classic pairing that absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite delightful and satisfying.
- Garlic Fried Rice: Infused with aromatic garlic, this rice adds a flavorful twist that complements the dish beautifully.
- Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, this salad brings a crunchy contrast to the richness of the chicken and sauce.
- Savory Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa serves as a healthy, protein-packed alternative to rice. It’s perfect for soaking up the sauce!
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Adding a colorful mix of bell peppers and carrots enhances the meal with additional textures and flavors.
- Asian-Inspired Coleslaw: A tangy slaw made with cabbage and sesame dressing lends a delightful crunch and zesty element to the plate.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat is a lovely way to finish the meal with its creamy texture and fruity flavor.
- Jasmine Tea: A fragrant tea that soothes and complements the meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Sesame Noodles: These lightly dressed noodles add a fun twist to the plate, making for a well-rounded Asian-inspired feast.
Together, these options will not only accentuate the vibrant flavors of your String Bean Chicken but also offer variety and satisfaction for everyone at the table!
String Bean Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these fun ways to customize your String Bean Chicken and suit your cravings!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, ensuring everyone can enjoy a great meal.
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Vegetarian: Replace chicken with extra-firm tofu, marinated similarly, and enjoy the delightful flavors with plant-based protein.
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Heat Boost: Add sliced fresh chilies or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stir-fry for a zesty kick that elevates the flavors!
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Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition and vibrant colors that will brighten your plate.
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Sweet & Sour: Mix in pineapple chunks with the sautéed veggies for a sweet contrast that complements the savory elements beautifully.
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Asian Twist: Include bamboo shoots or water chestnuts for an added crunch, creating a wonderful texture contrast.
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Nutty Flavor: Toss in some roasted cashews or peanuts at the end for a delightful crunch and nutty richness you won’t forget.
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Rice Substitute: Serve over cauliflower rice or quinoa for a nutrient-packed alternative that still delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
Jump into the kitchen and let your creativity shine with these variations that keep mealtime exciting and delicious!
Expert Tips for String Bean Chicken
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Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes if possible. This enhances the flavors and ensures tender texture.
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Balance Flavors: Taste the sauce before adding it to the dish. Adjust ingredients like sugar or soy sauce to achieve your desired balance of sweetness and saltiness.
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Don’t Overcrowd: When searing chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust rather than steaming the chicken.
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Crunchy Beans: For crisp string beans, aim to stir-fry them just until tender but still vibrant green. Overcooking can lead to mushy vegetables.
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Thickening Sauce: If the sauce isn’t thickening as expected, give it a minute more on the heat. Adding a little extra cornstarch mixed with water can help, but avoid too much to keep it from becoming gummy.
Embrace these tips for your String Bean Chicken, and you’ll create a meal that’s not only quick but impressively delicious!
How to Store and Freeze String Bean Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover String Bean Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture. Stir frequently until heated evenly.
Serving Fresh: For optimal taste, enjoy String Bean Chicken freshly made, but with these storage tips, you’ll always have a delightful meal ready to go!
Make Ahead Options
These String Bean Chicken preparations are a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the sliced chicken breast up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additionally, you can prep the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, keep the chicken and sauce in separate airtight containers to prevent the chicken from getting soggy. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat your wok, sear the marinated chicken, and stir-fry the beans. Then, add the sauce for a quick finish, resulting in a delicious, homemade meal that feels fresh and just as flavorful!
String Bean Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best string beans?
Absolutely! When choosing string beans, look for vibrant green color and a firm texture. Avoid any beans with dark spots or blemishes, which could indicate overripeness. Fresh string beans should snap easily when bent, ensuring they are crisp and loaded with flavor.
How should I store leftover String Bean Chicken?
Very simple! Place any leftover String Bean Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I freeze String Bean Chicken?
Definitely! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, defrost it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly on the stovetop.
What if my sauce isn’t thickening properly?
If the sauce isn’t thickening as expected, don’t fret! Make a slurry by mixing an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water, and stir this mixture into the sauce. Let it simmer for a minute longer while stirring; it should thicken nicely, creating that glossy finish you want.
Is this dish suitable for those with soy allergies?
If you or someone you’re cooking for has a soy allergy, you can substitute the soy sauce with coconut aminos or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. However, be sure to check all ingredients in the sauces you choose, as some may still contain soy elements.
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! The beauty of this dish is its versatility. You can include bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas—as they all pair wonderfully with the chicken and sauce. Just adjust cooking times as necessary to keep everything perfectly tender and vibrant!
Savory String Bean Chicken: A Quick 30-Minute Meal Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken breast with light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, water, and vegetable oil. Mix until well-coated, then marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch until the sugar dissolves. Set this savory blend aside for later.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Sear for 1-2 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the String Beans: In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Toss in the string beans and stir-fry for about 6 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they reach your desired tenderness.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Push the string beans to one side of the pan. Add 1 tablespoon of oil, then add sliced onions and chopped garlic. Sauté for 1 minute or until fragrant and softened. Next, pour in the sauce and simmer for about 1 minute until thickened.
- Combine Everything: Return the sautéed chicken to the pan along with sesame oil. Toss everything together for about 30 seconds, ensuring that the chicken and veggies are well-coated in the sauce.
- Serve: Plate your delicious String Bean Chicken and serve it alongside steamed white rice for a complete meal.