Chinese Chicken String Beans if you’re looking for a delicious and healthy dinner option that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, Chinese Chicken String Beans is the perfect dish. This stir-fry combines tender chicken with crisp, vibrant string beans, creating a colorful and nutritious meal that the whole family will love. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to make this tasty dish, share tips for the best results, and provide some variations to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Perfect for busy weeknights, this stir-fry takes only about 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, string beans and chicken make this dish not only satisfying but also healthy.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe by adding different vegetables or adjusting the sauce to your preference.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Chinese Chicken String Beans, gather the following ingredients:
- For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced thinly
- 8 ounces of string beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for added flavor)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced or grated
- For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or Chinese Chicken String Beans cooking wine
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water (for thickening)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- A pinch of black pepper or chili flakes (for heat, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced chicken with soy sauce and a pinch of black pepper. Allow it to marinate for about 10 minutes. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and the cornstarch mixture. Set aside for later.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Let it sear for about 2-3 minutes without stirring, until it’s golden brown.
- Stir the chicken to cook through, approximately 4-5 more minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the String Beans
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the trimmed string beans and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, until they are bright green and tender-crisp. If you like your beans softer, you can add a splash of water to help steam them.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the chicken to the pan with the string beans. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened and everything is heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you want more flavor, you can add extra soy sauce or a pinch of salt.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve your Chinese Chicken String Beans hot over steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Stir-Fry
- Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat ensures that the chicken sears quickly, locking in moisture and flavor.
- Prep Ahead: Chop all ingredients beforehand to make the cooking process smoother and faster.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh string beans and quality chicken for the best taste. Frozen string beans can work in a pinch but might not have the same texture.
Variations to Try
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to boost the nutrition and color.
- Different Proteins: Swap chicken for beef, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Spicy Twist: Add sliced chili peppers or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information
A serving of Chinese Chicken String Beans is not only flavorful but also a healthy choice. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Fat: 14g
This dish is low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it a great option for those watching their diet.
Conclusion
Chinese Chicken String Beans is an easy and delicious stir-fry that brings the flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen. With its quick preparation time and nutritious ingredients, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Experiment with the recipe to make it your own, and enjoy the delightful taste of this classic dish.
For more delicious recipes like this, visit Recipesify and explore our vast collection of culinary delights
By following this guide, you can whip up a delightful and nutritious meal that will please your taste buds. Enjoy your cooking adventure!