There’s something magical about the sizzle of chicken and crunch of fresh string beans coming together in a hot skillet. This 20-Minute String Bean Chicken Stir-fry is not only quick to prepare but also bursts with flavor and texture. With a perfect combination of tender chicken and crisp veggies enveloped in a savory sauce, it’s an effortless way to enjoy a delicious meal any night of the week.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet healthy. You can easily whip up this dish in just 20 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for a family dinner or a meal prep solution. Plus, any leftovers store well, allowing you to enjoy them for lunch the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick cooking time makes weeknight dinners easy.
- Crisp-tender string beans add a delightful crunch.
- The sauce balances sweet and savory perfectly.
- One-pan cooking simplifies cleanup after a busy day.
What You’ll Need
To prepare this flavorful stir-fry, gather the following ingredients:
For the Stir-fry
- 1 lb string beans, trimmed
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
For Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Oyster sauce can be substituted with soy sauce.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken breast can be replaced with tofu for a vegetarian option.
- String beans may be swapped with snap peas.
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with olive oil.
- Cornstarch can be replaced with flour for thickening.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create this delicious stir-fry.
Heat the Oil
Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Cook the Garlic
Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add the Chicken
Add the chicken slices and stir-fry until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir-fry the String Beans
Add the string beans and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and chicken broth together.
Pour the Sauce
Pour the sauce over the chicken and beans and stir to coat.
Thicken the Sauce
Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the texture may change.
Reheat: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Slice the chicken breast thinly to ensure quick cooking.
- Use fresh string beans for the best crunch and flavor.
- Adjust the sauce ingredients based on your taste preferences.
- Make sure not to overcook the string beans to retain their bright color.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Pair with egg rolls for a fantastic Asian-inspired dinner.
- Enjoy alongside a light soup for a comforting lunch.
