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 times when you want something delicious yet quick. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s suitable for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, the combination of tender chicken and crisp green beans in a flavorful sauce makes it a standout dish that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, honey, and garlic creates a delicious glaze that elevates the dish.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from the green beans, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out green beans for your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauce to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both adults and kids alike, ensuring everyone at the table is happy.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather all necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will save time and help you focus on creating this delightful meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect sear on the chicken.
• Spatula: A sturdy spatula allows you to flip and stir without damaging your ingredients.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors in your sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil + 1 teaspoon (separated)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks

For the Green Beans

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

For the Sauce

• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons corn starch
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Make Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Trim the green beans and cut the chicken into chunks.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken chunks to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Green Beans

Once the chicken is cooked through, add minced garlic and green beans. Stir well to combine everything in the skillet.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, corn starch, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Pour the sauce over the chicken and green beans in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Once cooked through, remove from heat. Serve your Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans warm over rice or enjoy as is!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Serving Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans is simple yet delightful. You can enjoy this dish in various ways, making it versatile for any meal.

With Rice

• Serve over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.

On a Salad

• Toss with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad option.

As Wraps

• Use tortillas to create tasty wraps, adding your favorite toppings like avocado or salsa.

With Quinoa

• Pair with quinoa for a protein-packed meal that enhances the dish’s nutrition.

How to Perfect Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

To make the most of your Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans, consider these tips for best results.

• Use fresh green beans: Fresh green beans enhance the flavor and texture of the dish compared to frozen ones.

• Marinate the chicken: Letting the chicken sit in soy sauce and honey for 30 minutes before cooking boosts flavor.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go. Adding salt and pepper to your preference elevates the overall taste.

• Cook on high heat: Searing the chicken on high heat helps lock in juices, making it tender and juicy.

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 great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A warm side that complements the meal perfectly; simply toast slices with garlic butter.

2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add comfort; use butter and cream for a rich texture.

3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a fresh contrast; use a tangy dressing for extra zing.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Mix seasonal veggies like carrots and broccoli; toss them in olive oil and roast until caramelized.

5. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that pairs well; season lightly with herbs for flavor.

6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings brightness; boil or grill with butter for added richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season your chicken and green beans properly can lead to bland results. Always use salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken breast for too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden-brown color and a juicy texture by cooking it just until done.
• Not trimming the green beans – Leaving tough ends on your green beans can ruin their texture. Always trim them before cooking for a pleasant bite.
• Using too high heat – Cooking on high heat may burn the garlic or sauce before the chicken cooks through. Use medium heat for even cooking.
• Ignoring ingredient measurements – Adding too much of any ingredient can throw off the balance of flavors. Stick to the measurements for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans?

You can add your favorite spices or vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to enhance this dish’s flavor.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans are a great option! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly since they may need a bit longer to cook through.

What should I serve with Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge or freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans recipe is not only quick but also deliciously satisfying. Its versatility allows you to tailor it with different seasonings or veggies based on what you have at home. Give it a try; you’ll love how simple yet flavorful it is!