Discover the mouthwatering string bean chicken recipe

string bean chicken When it comes to quick and satisfying meals, few dishes can rival a classic string bean chicken stir-fry. This dish combines tender chicken pieces with vibrant, crisp string beans, all tossed in a savory sauce that bursts with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this string bean chicken recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a healthy choice for the whole family. In this article, we’ll delve into how to make this delightful dish, variations you can try, and tips for the perfect stir-fry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create a delicious string bean chicken stir-fry, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced thinly.
• String Beans: 1 pound of fresh string beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces.
• Vegetable Oil: For frying (you can use peanut or canola oil for a higher smoke point).
• Garlic and Ginger: 2 cloves of garlic, minced, and 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, minced for aromatic flavor.
• Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce for seasoning.
• Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons for added depth and umami.
• Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon to thicken the sauce.
• Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon for a nutty flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for a hint of spice.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your string bean chicken stir-fry:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavor and tenderness.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Set aside.
3. Blanch the String Beans: In a pot of boiling water, blanch the string beans for about 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step helps retain the beans’ vibrant color and crunch.
4. Stir-Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
5. Cook Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary, then toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Combine Ingredients: Add the blanched string beans to the skillet and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Then return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
7. Add Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and beans, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.
8. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with red pepper flakes if desired, and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy your homemade string bean chicken!

Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry

• High Heat is Key: Stir-frying works best at high heat. This helps to sear the ingredients quickly, locking in flavors and keeping vegetables crisp.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower the temperature and cause the ingredients to steam rather than fry.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh string beans and quality chicken for the best flavor and texture.
• Pre-Prep Ingredients: To save time, prep all ingredients before you start cooking. Stir-fry goes quickly, and having everything ready will make the process smooth.

Variations to Try

While the classic string bean chicken stir-fry is delightful on its own, you can easily customize it with different ingredients:

• Add Other Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for added color and nutrition.
• Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it Up: Include sliced chili peppers or a splash of hot sauce to enhance the heat.

Nutritional Benefits

This string bean chicken recipe is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients:

• High in Protein: The chicken provides a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in Fiber: String beans are high in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and helping you feel fuller longer.
• Low in Calories: This dish is relatively low in calories, making it a suitable option for those watching their weight.

Conclusion

This string bean chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. With its quick cooking time and delicious flavor, it’s sure to please the entire family. Plus, with endless variations and the health benefits it offers, you can enjoy this dish regularly without getting bored. Grab your ingredients and get cooking—you’ll be savoring this delightful stir-fry in no time!