Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans

The aroma of honey and garlic wafting through the kitchen can transport anyone to a place where comfort food reigns supreme. This Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans recipe is not only quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes, but it also combines tender chicken with a delightful balance of sweetness and savory flavors. With its simplicity and satisfying taste, it’s sure to become a go-to meal for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

This dish is perfect for families seeking a delicious yet easy dinner solution. Whether you’re preparing a meal for the week or hosting friends, this recipe offers the right blend of taste and convenience. Plus, leftovers can be stored and enjoyed later without losing their appeal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The chicken is tender and juicy, perfectly coated in a flavorful sauce.
• Green beans maintain a crisp texture, adding freshness to the dish.
• A quick cooking time means you can have a homemade meal on the table fast.
• The sweet and savory sauce brings a delightful balance that pairs well with rice.

What You’ll Need

Gather all necessary ingredients before you start cooking!

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

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)

Arrowroot powder can be substituted with cornstarch.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Maple syrup can replace honey for a different sweetness.
• Fresh ginger gives a brighter taste than ground ginger.
• Any green vegetable can work in place of green beans.

How to Make It

Ready to create a delicious meal? Follow these steps!

1. Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes. Mix together 1 tablespoon of arrowroot powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then toss with the chicken making sure each piece is lightly coated.

2. Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil to coat the pan. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken pieces in an even layer. Season with salt and pepper and cook until lightly browned, about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring the chicken as needed. Once cooked, transfer to a plate and set aside.

3. Sauté the Green Beans

Drizzle another tablespoon of olive oil onto the hot skillet, add the green beans, and season with a little salt and pepper. Sauté the green beans for about 6 minutes until they start to get a little char and are tender but still crisp.

4. Make the Sauce

While the green beans are cooking, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger in a small bowl. Separately, whisk together 2 teaspoons of arrowroot powder (or cornstarch) along with 2 teaspoons of water and mix until smooth. Set aside.

5. Combine Everything

Once the green beans are tender, add the chicken back into the pan and mix together. Pour the honey garlic sauce over top, add the arrowroot mixture to help thicken up the sauce, and stir well making sure everything is coated. Bring the sauce to a boil, then turn down the heat and let everything simmer until the sauce has thickened up and everything is incorporated.

6. Serve

Top with sliced green onions (aka scallions) and some sesame seeds. Serve over rice and enjoy!

How to Store It

Fridge: 3 to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, as the texture may change.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Avoid overcooking the green beans to keep them crisp.
• Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey based on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over steamed rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
• Pair with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Great for meal prep; just pack in single-serving containers.