Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner option, I have just the recipe for you! Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans is a family favorite that never fails to impress. The sweet and savory sauce coats tender pieces of chicken and crisp green beans, creating a meal that feels like a treat without all the fuss. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish will surely bring smiles around the table. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes!

What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility. You can whip it up on a whim or plan ahead for those nights when cooking feels overwhelming. Trust me, once you try this Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans, it just might become your go-to weeknight meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be on your table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its sweet flavors and colorful veggies, even picky eaters will ask for seconds!
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy dinner with your loved ones.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, this meal is as wholesome as it is tasty.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients earlier in the day for an even quicker dinner when you need it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s get into the good stuff! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Gather these items, and you’ll be well on your way to creating your new favorite dish.

For the Chicken

• 1 to 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 Tbsp arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided)

For the Green Beans

• 12 oz green beans (trimmed)
• 1/4 cup green onions (chopped)
• Sesame seeds (optional garnish)

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 3 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp grated ginger (or 1/4 tsp ground ginger)
• 2 tsp arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)

Variations

One of the best things about Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans is how easy it is to customize! If you’re in the mood to switch things up, consider these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use tofu or shrimp instead of chicken for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce if you like a bit of heat.
• Use different sauces: Experiment with teriyaki sauce or hoisin sauce for an exciting twist.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of arrowroot powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss this mixture with the chicken until every piece is lightly coated. This not only adds flavor but also helps create a nice crust when cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil to coat the pan. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces in an even layer. Cook them until they are golden brown and cooked through—about 4 to 5 minutes—stirring occasionally. This step is essential for developing that savory depth of flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Green Beans

After removing the chicken from the skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in those beautiful green beans along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Sauté them for about 6 minutes until they are tender yet still crisp—no one wants floppy green beans!

Step 4: Whisk Together the Sauce

While your green beans are cooking away, take a small bowl and whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. In another bowl, mix together 2 teaspoons of arrowroot powder (or cornstarch) with water until smooth. This will help thicken our delicious sauce later on.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your green beans are perfectly sautéed, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Pour that luscious honey garlic sauce over everything and stir well to coat all pieces evenly. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil before lowering the heat to let it simmer until thickened.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Finally, give everything a lovely finish by topping with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if you’d like! Serve over rice for a complete meal that’s simply irresistible.

And there you have it—your very own Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans ready to delight your taste buds! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans

Cooking this dish is a breeze, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans to perfection!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Preparing the chicken, green beans, and sauce in advance saves time during cooking, making weeknight meals stress-free.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to crowd the skillet. This allows for even cooking and a nice browning effect, giving your chicken that delicious flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger make a noticeable difference in flavor compared to powdered versions. They add depth and brightness to your sauce!
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of honey based on your preference. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more; if you prefer a savory touch, reduce it slightly.
• Experiment with Veggies: While green beans are fantastic, feel free to experiment with other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans

Serving up this delightful dish is all about presentation! Here are some ideas that will make your meal pop.

Garnishes

• Sliced Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch and vibrant color that enhances both taste and appearance.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and visual appeal that makes your dish look restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice pairs beautifully with the saucy chicken, soaking up all the yummy flavors.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon dressing is refreshing and complements the sweet-savory notes of the dish.
• Roasted Broccoli: Crisp-tender roasted broccoli provides a nice contrast in texture while adding extra nutrients to your meal.
• Cucumber Pickles: Quick-pickled cucumbers bring acidity that balances out the sweetness of the honey garlic sauce beautifully.

Enjoy crafting this easy yet impressive meal that’s perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken and green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume leftovers within 3-4 days for the best taste and quality.
• If possible, keep the sauce separate until you’re ready to reheat to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other vegetables instead of green beans in Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out green beans for your favorite veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I make Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans spicier?

To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or Sriracha into the honey garlic sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preference!

Is Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy quick meals throughout the week while keeping everything fresh and delicious.

What can I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans?

Serve this flavorful dish over rice, quinoa, or even noodles. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans as much as I do! It’s not just quick and easy; it’s bursting with flavor that brings family together around the dinner table. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is sure to please. Happy cooking!