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 occasions. It’s quick to prepare, delicious, and uses minimal ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. The tender chicken pairs well with the crunchy green beans, making it a nutritious choice any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of soy sauce, honey, and garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the chicken and green beans.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and vegetables, this recipe supports a balanced diet.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings; this dish works well with rice or quinoa.
• Kid-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.

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Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make cooking smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good-quality skillet ensures even cooking of the chicken and keeps the green beans crisp.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes prepping the chicken and green beans quick and easy.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance of flavors in this recipe.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 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

For the Green Beans

• 2 1/2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil + 1 teaspoon (separated)

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. Then, cut your chicken breasts into small chunks.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 3: Add Garlic & Sauce

Add minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, and corn starch mixed with a little water.

Step 4: Incorporate Green Beans

Add the green beans to the skillet. Stir well so they get coated with the sauce. Cover the skillet and let everything cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the green beans are tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Once cooked, taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary. Serve hot as is or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Serving Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans can be as simple or fancy as you like. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal while keeping it easy and enjoyable.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve the chicken and green beans alongside fluffy white rice for a comforting family meal.
• Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Meal Prep Option

• Pack the chicken and green beans in meal prep containers for a healthy lunch throughout the week.
• Add some quinoa or couscous on the side for added fiber and texture.

Elegant Platter

• Arrange the chicken and green beans on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
• Drizzle extra sauce over the top for an eye-catching presentation that’s perfect for guests.

How to Perfect Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Perfecting Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans is all about technique and timing. Here are some tips to ensure your dish comes out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh green beans will have a better flavor and texture than frozen ones.
• Cut uniformly: Ensure chicken breast chunks are all similar in size for even cooking.
• Control heat: Start cooking on medium-high heat to sear the chicken, then lower it to cook through without burning.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook! Feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or honey based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

Pairing side dishes with Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement this dish well.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a perfect comfort food pairing.
2. Steamed Rice: A simple bowl of steamed rice absorbs the flavors from the chicken sauce beautifully.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber adds freshness to your plate.
4. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring out a lovely contrast in flavors alongside the savory chicken.
5. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice seasoned lightly with herbs.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken can lead to bland results. Always add salt and pepper for flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long makes it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to 165°F.
• Ignoring the beans’ texture: Overcooked green beans become mushy. Aim for a vibrant green color and slight crunch.
• Using high-sodium soy sauce: This can overpower your dish. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep flavors balanced.
• Not prepping ingredients ahead of time: This can slow down your cooking process. Have everything chopped and ready before you start cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place in a baking dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and cover until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to cook Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans?

The best way is by sautéing them together in a pan with garlic, soy sauce, and honey for added flavor.

Can I use other vegetables with Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for more variety.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

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

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep ingredients in advance and store them separately until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Easy Chicken Breast and Green Beans is not only simple but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your preference. This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something quick yet satisfying. Give it a try!