Simple & Cozy Chicken Breast with Green Beans

Homestyle Chicken and Veggies

Gathering around the dinner table with friends for a cozy chicken dinner is one of life’s simple pleasures. Our group of culinary enthusiasts crafts comforting meals that resonate with the rhythm of everyday cooking. Each recipe, particularly our chicken breast and green beans, is designed for real-life kitchens and busy weeknights. We believe that cooking doesn’t need to be perfect; it should be accessible, enjoyable, and a time to connect over good food. Let this humble dish bring warmth and simple joy to your dinner table, encouraging everyone to savor memorable moments together.

Quick Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: American
• Best Season: Year-round

What Makes This Dish Shine

• Flavorful Combination: The sweet and savory notes of honey and soy sauce create a delicious glaze that perfectly complements the tender chicken and vibrant green beans.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and nutrients, this dish is a wholesome option that keeps everyone satisfied without compromising on flavor.
• Versatile Meal: You can easily swap in different vegetables or proteins, making this a flexible recipe that adapts to your family’s preferences or whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus 1 teaspoon separated)
• 2.5 cups green beans (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch chunks)
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 0.25 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
• 0.25 cup soy sauce (preferably low-sodium)
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Ingredient Insights

• Chicken Breasts: Opt for fresh, organic chicken for added flavor and health benefits.
• Green Beans: Choose vibrant green beans for the best crunch; they should feel firm and snap easily.
• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is ideal to control the saltiness without sacrificing taste.
• Honey: Use raw or local honey for a richer flavor profile, enhancing the dish’s sweetness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn bright green and become crisp-tender. Remove the green beans from the pan and place them on a plate. Cover with foil to keep warm.
2. Wipe the pan clean with a paper towel and increase the heat to high. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil and let it heat for about 30 seconds. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. Add the garlic during the last 30 seconds of cooking and stir constantly.
3. Return the cooked green beans to the pan with the chicken. Toss everything together and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are heated through.
4. While the green beans are warming, whisk together the chicken broth, honey, and soy sauce in a small bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until completely smooth.
5. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the chicken and green beans. Cook for 30 seconds while stirring to coat everything evenly. Add the cornstarch mixture and stir constantly while bringing to a gentle boil. Cook for 1 more minute until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
6. Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice.

Pro Pointers for Best Results

• Tip on Browning: Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken to ensure a nice golden brown crust.
• Timing Matters: Keep an eye on the green beans; overcooking turns them mushy. Crisp-tender is the goal.
• Flavor Boost: If you love a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the soy sauce mixture.
• Sauce Thickness: Don’t hesitate to adjust the cornstarch if you prefer a thicker sauce; just remember to whisk it well!

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute the chicken with cubed tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Mild Flavor: Reduce the soy sauce by half and increase honey for a sweeter, milder taste that kids will love.
• Spicy Version: Add fresh chopped chili peppers or a splash of sriracha to the soy sauce mixture for a spicy twist.
• Regional Flavor: Embrace local flavors by adding lime juice and fresh cilantro for a zesty twist inspired by Mexican cuisine.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this delightful chicken and green beans dish with jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa for a complete meal. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a refreshing iced tea, or finish with a light dessert, like a fruit sorbet, for a well-rounded dining experience.

Prepping Ahead & Freezing Options

Prep the chicken and veggies in advance, storing them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the cooked dish in an airtight container; it keeps well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop until heated through.

Serving Presentation Ideas

Serve this dish in a large bowl, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an inviting presentation. A side of fluffy rice, drizzled with some of the remaining sauce, enhances the cozy vibes and makes it visually appealing.

Little Things That Help

• Marinating the Chicken: If you have extra time, marinating the chicken in soy sauce and garlic for 30 minutes can elevate the flavor.
• Taste Test: Always taste your sauce before serving; adjusting the sweet and savory notes while cooking can enhance your dish wonderfully.
• Choosing Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh produce and quality meats to ensure the best flavors in your meal.

Keeping It Fresh

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and texture.

Questions You Might Have

• Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
• What if I don’t have honey? You can substitute sugar or agave syrup, adjusting the quantity to taste.
• How do I know the chicken is cooked? Use a meat thermometer—an internal temperature of 165°F is safe.
• Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas can add color and nutrition.
• Is this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free soy sauce to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, simply adjust the pan size and cooking time as necessary and keep an eye on the chicken’s internal temperature.

Nutrition Info

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 310
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 28g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 7g
  Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary.

A Warm Reflection

Cozy dinners like this chicken breast and green beans remind us of the joy of cooking and sharing meals. They are the kinds of dishes that warm your heart and fill your home with enticing aromas. Each bite tells a story of comfort and love, making it perfect for gatherings. Gather your loved ones, serve with an open heart, and create cherished memories around the dinner table.

Ending on a Delicious Note

As you savor this easy chicken breast and green beans recipe, remember that food is a wonderful way to foster connection and warmth. Invite your family to join in, experiment with flavors, and share your culinary creations on Pinterest for others to enjoy. Here’s to many cozy dinners shared together, filled with laughter, unity, and love!

Homestyle Chicken and Veggies

Gather around the table with friends for a cozy and healthy chicken dinner featuring tender chicken breast and vibrant green beans, all glazed in a sweet and savory sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 310

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken and Veggies

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (plus 1 teaspoon separated)
• 2.5 cups green beans (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces) Choose vibrant green beans for the best crunch.
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch chunks) Opt for fresh, organic chicken.
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 0.25 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
• 0.25 cup soy sauce (preferably low-sodium) Low-sodium soy sauce is ideal.
• 3 tablespoons honey Use raw or local honey for better flavor.
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch Adjust for sauce thickness preference.
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn bright green and become crisp-tender. Remove from the pan and place on a plate, covering with foil to keep warm.
2. Wipe the pan clean with a paper towel and increase the heat to high. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil and let it heat for about 30 seconds. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Add the garlic during the last 30 seconds and stir constantly.
3. Return the cooked green beans to the pan with the chicken. Toss everything together and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are heated through.
4. While the green beans are warming, whisk together the chicken broth, honey, and soy sauce in a small bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until completely smooth.
5. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the chicken and green beans. Cook for 30 seconds while stirring to coat everything evenly. Add the cornstarch mixture and stir constantly while bringing to a gentle boil. Cook for 1 more minute until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
6. Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth. For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.