Garlic Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry is a simple and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken pieces with crisp green beans, all coated in a flavorful garlic sauce. The fresh crunch of the beans pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken, making every bite satisfying and fresh.
I love how quickly this stir-fry comes together, which makes it my go-to weeknight dinner. The garlic shines through without being overpowering, and I always add a little extra sauce to make sure every bite has just the right amount of flavor. It feels like finding a good balance between healthy and tasty all in one pan.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is over a bed of steaming white rice or noodles. It soaks up the sauce and makes the meal complete. Whenever I make this, I notice everyone goes back for seconds, which tells me it’s just as comforting as it is easy to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken
- I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean, tender texture. You can swap for chicken thighs for more juiciness or use tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Green beans
- Fresh green beans give a great crunch. If unavailable, snap peas or asparagus work well here. Avoid canned beans to keep that crisp texture.
- Garlic
- Fresh minced garlic is essential for bold flavor. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but the fresh stuff really brightens the dish.
- Soy and oyster sauce
- These build the savory sauce base. For a vegetarian or vegan version, skip oyster sauce or use mushroom sauce as a substitute.
- Sesame oil
- Adds a nutty aroma and depth. If you don’t have it, a small drizzle of toasted sesame seeds can add nice flavor separately.
How Do I Keep the Green Beans Crisp and Chicken Tender?
High heat and timing are key when stir-frying to get that perfect texture.
- Heat your pan well before adding oil, so the chicken sears quickly without stewing.
- Cook chicken pieces in one even layer, don’t overcrowd, for a nice golden crust. Remove once cooked through.
- Use the same pan and oil for garlic and green beans for extra flavor. Stir-fry green beans just until bright green and slightly tender, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add chicken back last, toss gently with sauce, and heat briefly to blend flavors without overcooking.
This method helps your green beans stay crisp but not raw, and your chicken stays juicy and flavorful. Trust me, it’s worth waiting that extra moment for perfect stir-fry!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or wok – perfect for high-heat cooking and quick stir-frying, helps get that nice sear on the chicken.
- Sharp knife – makes cutting the chicken and trimming green beans easy and safe.
- Cutting board – keeps your work surface clean and stable while prepping ingredients.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – great for stirring without scratching your pan.
- Measuring spoons – handy for accurate soy sauce and seasoning amounts.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu to vary protein and keep it light.
- Add sliced bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
- Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
- Mix in a handful of chopped cashews or toasted sesame seeds for a nutty touch and crunch.
Garlic Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz (340g) fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried basil or fresh chopped parsley
- 1 lemon slice for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. In just about 25 minutes total, you’ll have a tasty, healthy stir-fry ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and stir-fry until golden brown and cooked through—about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables and Garlic:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt. Add green beans, sliced onion (if you’re using it), and cherry tomatoes. Stir-fry for 5 to 6 minutes until the beans are tender yet still crisp.
3. Combine and Finish:
Return the chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, black pepper, salt, and basil or parsley. Toss everything well to coat the chicken and green beans in the flavorful garlic sauce. Let everything cook together for 1 to 2 minutes so the flavors meld.
4. Serve:
Remove the pan from heat. Garnish with a lemon slice if you like a bright, fresh touch. Serve your garlic chicken and green bean stir-fry immediately, ideally over steamed rice or noodles for a complete, satisfying meal.
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid extra moisture. Since frozen beans are softer, stir-fry them for a shorter time to keep some crispness.
What Can I Substitute for Oyster Sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce or want a vegetarian option, try using mushroom sauce or hoisin sauce. Soy sauce alone works too, but adding a touch of sugar can help balance the flavors.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Stir-Fry Ahead of Time?
Yes! Cook the chicken and vegetables separately, then combine and toss with the sauce right before serving. This keeps textures fresh and avoids sogginess when reheating.