String Bean Chicken Recipe Stir Fry – Culinary Chase
Before diving into the Whys and Hows of String Bean Chicken Stir Fry, let’s talk pairings. This dish is a delightful dance of flavors and textures that can shine alongside a variety of companions.
Think fluffy jasmine rice or soft noodles, things that soak up the essence of the stir fry beautifully.
If you’re feeling indulgent, add a side of crispy egg rolls for that crunchy contrast. A simple cucumber salad also complements the dish, cutting through the savory richness with refreshing crispness.
An Introduction to String Bean Chicken Stir Fry
I can still remember the first time I made String Bean Chicken Stir Fry. It was a rainy evening, the kind that makes you crave something comforting yet light.
With a few humble ingredients, this dish transformed a quiet night into a flavorful adventure. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy and satisfying.
What makes this recipe a treasure in my collection?
First, it’s a quick fix—ready in just about twenty minutes. Second, it’s packed with nutrition. The bright green string beans offer fiber and vitamins, while the chicken provides lean protein. This dish is also versatile. You can switch up ingredients based on what’s in your fridge.
Having experimented with many different ingredients, I can tell you that the balance of flavors here is what makes it sing. The savory chicken pairs seamlessly with the crunch of the green beans.
Each bite offers a touch of sesame and ginger. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a passionate experience for the taste buds. Let me take you through the ingredients, so you understand why this dish works so well.
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Ingredients for String Bean Chicken Stir Fry
Let’s break it down ingredient by ingredient. Each component plays a vital role in creating the deliciousness you’ll encounter.
For the chicken and marinade:
12 oz. boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh meat, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon neutral vegetable oil
2 teaspoons cornstarch
½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon light soy sauce
For the rest of the dish:
4 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
1 pound green string beans
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
½ cup chicken broth or water
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon brown sugar
2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon Shaoxing cooking wine
¼ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
white pepper (to taste)
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
How to Make String Bean Chicken Stir Fry
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making your own String Bean Chicken Stir Fry is much easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying this vibrant dish.
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken Marinade
Start by mixing together the neutral vegetable oil, cornstarch, toasted sesame oil, water, and light soy sauce in a bowl. Add the thinly sliced chicken and toss well, ensuring all pieces are coated. Let it sit while you prep the rest of your ingredients. This little wait works magic on the chicken, enhancing its flavor and juiciness.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Let it cook without stirring for about 2-3 minutes until it’s browned.
Flip the pieces over and cook for another 2 minutes, until the chicken is just cooked through. Remove it from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Now toss in your sliced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds.
Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic tends to sour the dish. Then, add the string beans. Stirring continuously, cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn crisp-tender.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Once the string beans are ready, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Mix well. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, dark soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine. Stir it all together.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Now, for that glossy finish! In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a splash of cold water to create a slurry. Pour this into the skillet and stir. The sauce will thicken almost immediately. Cook for another minute until everything is well-coated.
Step 6: Final Touches
Remove from heat and drizzle with the remaining toasted sesame oil. If you like a bit of kick, try adding white pepper according to your taste. Stir in the grated ginger right before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Recipe Notes
1. Chicken Variations: Feel free to use chicken thighs for juiciness or even tofu for a vegetarian approach. Just ensure any meat is cut thin for quick cooking.
2. String Beans: If they aren’t in season, feel free to substitute them with bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for a colorful mix.
3. Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
4. Fresh Herbs: Add cilantro or scallions as a garnish for a refreshing burst of flavor at the end.
5. Cooking Wines: If you can’t find Shaoxing cooking wine, dry sherry can be a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.
6. Sesame Oil: Use regular sesame oil if toasted isn’t available, though it won’t offer the same deep flavor.
Recipe Variations
1. Protein Swaps: Switch out the chicken for shrimp or beef. Each protein brings its unique flavor profile to the dish.
2. Add Nuts: For a crunchy texture, toss in some cashews or peanuts. They add great flavor and a little heartiness too.
3. More Vegetables: Consider adding carrots, bell peppers, or snow peas. These can enhance both the nutrition and visuals of your dish.
4. Spicy Option: For the spice lovers, include crushed red pepper flakes or slice fresh chilies while sautéing the garlic.
5. Sauce Alternatives: You can experiment with teriyaki sauce instead of soy if you want a sweeter flavor.
6. Rice Alternatives: Try serving over quinoa for a protein boost, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Nutrition Facts
String Bean Chicken Recipe Stir Fry Nutrition Facts
String Bean Chicken Recipe Stir Fry
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
For the chicken and marinade:
- 12 oz. boneless skinless chicken breast or thigh meat, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon neutral vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon light soy sauce
For the rest of the dish:
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil divided
- 1 pound green string beans
- 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- ½ cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing cooking wine
- ¼ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- white pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken Marinade
- Start by mixing together the neutral vegetable oil, cornstarch, toasted sesame oil, water, and light soy sauce in a bowl. Add the thinly sliced chicken and toss well, ensuring all pieces are coated. Let it sit while you prep the rest of your ingredients. This little wait works magic on the chicken, enhancing its flavor and juiciness.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Let it cook without stirring for about 2-3 minutes until it’s browned.
- Flip the pieces over and cook for another 2 minutes, until the chicken is just cooked through. Remove it from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Now toss in your sliced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds.
- Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic tends to sour the dish. Then, add the string beans. Stirring continuously, cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn crisp-tender.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Once the string beans are ready, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Mix well. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, dark soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine. Stir it all together.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
- Now, for that glossy finish! In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a splash of cold water to create a slurry. Pour this into the skillet and stir. The sauce will thicken almost immediately. Cook for another minute until everything is well-coated.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Remove from heat and drizzle with the remaining toasted sesame oil. If you like a bit of kick, try adding white pepper according to your taste. Stir in the grated ginger right before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Chicken Variations: Feel free to use chicken thighs for juiciness or even tofu for a vegetarian approach. Just ensure any meat is cut thin for quick cooking.
2. String Beans: If they aren’t in season, feel free to substitute them with bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for a colorful mix.
3. Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
4. Fresh Herbs: Add cilantro or scallions as a garnish for a refreshing burst of flavor at the end.
5. Cooking Wines: If you can’t find Shaoxing cooking wine, dry sherry can be a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.
6. Sesame Oil: Use regular sesame oil if toasted isn’t available, though it won’t offer the same deep flavor.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and stir-fry on the day you want to serve it. Just ensure you store the sauce components together.
2. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, it freezes well. Cook the stir fry, let it cool, then place it in an airtight container. It will keep for 2-3 months in the freezer.
3. What can I serve with String Bean Chicken Stir Fry?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or even zoodles. Adjust your sides depending on your nutritional needs or cravings.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crunch of the beans.
5. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, you can substitute regular soy sauce with tamari for the marinade and sauce components.
6. What’s the best way to cut chicken for stir fry?
Slice the chicken against the grain into thin strips. This helps keep the meat tender during cooking.
Conclusion
String Bean Chicken Stir Fry is not just a recipe; it’s a gateway to delicious, quick meals that can fit any lifestyle.
Whether you’re whipping it up for dinner or meal prepping for the week, every bite reiterates why I keep coming back to this dish. The colorful ingredients are not just eye-catching but also filled with nutrients that fuel your body.
As you embark on this cooking adventure, imagine the sizzling sounds, the vibrant colors, and the intoxicating aromas wafting through your kitchen.
There’s a simple joy in creating this meal that goes beyond satisfying hunger—because it connects you to people, memories, and a sense of accomplishment. Get ready to douse your stir fry in flavor and serve up something memorable. Happy cooking!