When you need a quick, healthy weeknight dinner, this chicken and green bean stir fry delivers every time. It’s packed with lean protein, crisp vegetables, and bold flavor, all made in one pan and under 30 minutes. This recipe is simple enough for busy nights, yet satisfying enough to keep in your regular rotation.
Jump to RecipeWhether you’re new to stir fry cooking or just looking for a reliable easy chicken stir fry, this dish checks all the boxes.
Why This Chicken and Green Bean Stir Fry Works
This recipe stands out because it’s designed for real life:
- Cooks fast without sacrificing flavor
- Uses simple, accessible ingredients
- One-pan method means easy cleanup
- Naturally fits into healthy, low-effort meal planning
The balance of tender chicken and crisp green beans makes it a high-protein stir fry that feels light but filling.
Total Time Breakdown (30 Minutes or Less)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 to 18 minutes
- Total Time: ~25 minutes
Stir fry cooking moves quickly, which is why having everything ready before you start is key. Once the pan is hot, this quick chicken green bean stir fry comes together fast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs if preferred)
- Fresh green beans, trimmed
- Garlic and fresh ginger
- Soy sauce (low sodium works well)
- Sesame oil
- Neutral cooking oil
- Cornstarch (for light sauce thickening)
Step-by-Step Instructions (Fast & Foolproof)
- Prep the chicken: Slice into thin, even pieces so it cooks quickly and stays juicy.
- Heat the pan: Use medium-high heat and allow the pan to get hot before adding oil.
- Cook the chicken: Sear quickly until just cooked through, then remove from the pan.
- Stir fry the green beans: Add them to the same pan and cook until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Build the sauce: Add garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Combine everything: Return the chicken to the pan, toss, and cook briefly until the sauce lightly coats everything.
This method keeps the chicken tender and the vegetables crisp, exactly what you want in a chicken stir fry with vegetables.
How to Keep Green Beans Crisp in a Stir Fry
This is one of the most common questions with green bean stir fry recipes.
- Use high heat
- Don’t overcrowd the pan
- Add sauce at the end, not the beginning
- Avoid overcooking, green beans should stay slightly firm
These simple techniques prevent soggy vegetables and keep your Asian-style chicken and green bean stir fry fresh and vibrant.
Sauce Variations You Can Try
- Classic savory: Soy sauce, garlic, ginger
- Slightly sweet: Add a small amount of honey or brown sugar
- Low sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and extra aromatics
- Gluten-free: Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos
Each option keeps the recipe flexible without complicating it.
Healthy Swaps & Dietary Adjustments
This recipe adapts easily to different lifestyles:
- Low-carb chicken stir fry: Serve as-is or over cauliflower rice
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free soy alternatives
- Higher protein: Add extra chicken or serve with a protein-rich side
These adjustments make it a great healthy chicken and green bean stir fry option.
What to Serve With Chicken and Green Bean Stir Fry
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Jasmine or basmati rice
- Cauliflower rice for low-carb meals
- Enjoy on its own for a lighter dinner
This flexibility makes it ideal for both family dinners and meal prep.
Storage, Meal Prep & Reheating Tips
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet to preserve texture
- Meal prep: Great for lunches when paired with rice or veggies
It’s a reliable make-ahead stir fry that doesn’t lose flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan
- Cooking chicken too long
- Adding sauce too early
- Using low heat
Avoiding these ensures your easy chicken stir fry turns out perfect every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, but fresh green beans give the best texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well when stored properly.
Do I need a wok?
No, a large skillet works perfectly for home cooking.
Final Thoughts
This chicken and green bean stir fry is proof that fast meals don’t have to be boring. With simple ingredients, minimal tools, and bold flavor, it’s an ideal quick weeknight chicken dinner you’ll come back to again and again.
Chicken and Green Bean Stir Fry
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep the chickenSlice the chicken breast into thin, even strips so it cooks quickly and evenly.
- Heat the panHeat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and allow it to heat until shimmering.
- Cook the chickenAdd the chicken to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Stir fry the green beansAdd the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the same pan. Add green beans and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Build the sauceAdd garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water.
- Combine everythingReturn the chicken to the pan. Pour in the sauce and toss everything together. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and green beans evenly.
- Serve immediatelyRemove from heat and serve hot.
Nutrition
Notes
- For crisp green beans, avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Slice chicken evenly to prevent overcooking.
- Fresh green beans provide the best texture, but frozen can be used if thawed and dried first.
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.