As I was browsing through my pantry one day, I realized I had all the makings for a delicious dish: Asian Chicken and Green Beans. The thought of succulent chicken paired with crisp, vibrant green beans tickled my taste buds. It reminded me of the nights spent around the dinner table, the smell of soy sauce and garlic filling the air, creating an ambiance that felt both comforting and exciting. I decided to whip up this easy weeknight dinner that I knew my family would love. The combination of flavors is a symphony that dances on your palate, and as I took my first bite, I was transported back to those cherished family meals, everyone laughing and sharing stories. This is a dish that truly brings people together, and I couldn’t wait to share it with you!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
32 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Blender, Frying Pan, Food Processor, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why Try This Asian Chicken and Green Beans

1. It’s All About the Marinade

The magic of Asian Chicken and Green Beans lies in the marinade. I often prepare it the night before, letting the chicken soak up the flavors of soy sauce, lime juice, and a hint of Sriracha. The result? Tender, juicy chicken that bursts with flavor in every bite. It’s a simple step that makes a world of difference!

2. Quick and Easy to Prepare

With our busy lives, finding time to cook can be challenging. This recipe is incredibly quick to prepare. Most of the cooking involves baking, allowing you to spend time with loved ones while the dish comes together in the oven. It’s the perfect solution for a weeknight dinner!

3. Nutrient-Packed

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. The fresh green beans are a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, making this meal as nutritious as it is tasty. You can feel good about serving it to your family!

4. A Flavorful Glaze

Don’t forget about the glaze! A delightful blend of orange marmalade and soy sauce is brushed onto the chicken and green beans, creating a beautiful caramelization as it bakes. The glaze adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory notes perfectly.

5. Versatility at Its Best

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out the green beans for your favorite vegetables, or even add extra spices to suit your family’s taste preferences. It’s a great way to use whatever you have on hand. I love recipes that allow me to be creative!

6. It’s Great for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to meal prep for the week, Asian Chicken and Green Beans is a fantastic option. The flavors develop even further after a day in the fridge, making it a perfect choice for lunches. Just reheat, and you have a satisfying meal ready to go!

Ingredient List for Asian Chicken and Green Beans

When it comes to the ingredients for Asian Chicken and Green Beans, each one plays a vital role in creating the dish’s unique flavor profile. The combination of savory, sweet, and tangy elements makes each bite a delightful experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

Soy Sauce: 3 T + 1 T. This classic ingredient forms the base of the marinade, imparting a savory umami flavor that enhances the chicken.
Fresh-Squeezed Lime Juice: 3 T. The acidity from the lime juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the soy sauce.
Sriracha Sauce: 2 T, or more to taste. This adds a spicy kick that can be adjusted based on your preference.
Sugar-Free Maple Syrup: 1/4 cup. A touch of sweetness that helps caramelize the chicken and green beans as they bake.
Golden Monkfruit Sweetener: 3 T. Another sweet component that keeps the dish low in carbs.
Minced Garlic: 1 T. Garlic adds depth and aromatic flavor, making the dish even more irresistible.
Sesame Oil: 1 tsp. This oil introduces a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Orange Marmalade: 1/4 cup. This provides a sweet and tangy element that ties the glaze together.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: 3 large. The star of the dish, tender and easy to marinate and cook.
Fresh Green Beans: 1 lb. Crisp and vibrant, these add color and nutrition to the dish.
Toasted Sesame Seeds: 1 T. A finishing touch that adds texture and a nutty flavor.

Recipe Steps for Asian Chicken and Green Beans

Making Asian Chicken and Green Beans is a straightforward process that results in a delicious meal. Let’s walk through the steps together so you can create this dish in your own kitchen!

Start by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a mixing bowl, combine 3 T soy sauce, 3 T fresh-squeezed lime juice, 2 T Sriracha Sauce, 1/4 cup sugar-free maple syrup, 3 T Golden Monkfruit Sweetener, 1 T minced garlic, and 1 tsp. sesame oil. Whisk until well combined.
Trim any fat or undesirable parts from the 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cut each breast into chunks, about 8 pieces per breast, which will help with even cooking and flavor absorption.
In a Ziploc bag, add the chicken pieces along with 1/2 cup of the marinade. Seal the bag and shake it gently to ensure all pieces are coated. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 6 to 8 hours, or even overnight if you have the time.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). This high heat will help achieve that beautiful caramelization on the chicken and green beans.
While the oven is heating, prepare your glaze. Take the remaining marinade and add 1/4 cup sugar-free orange marmalade and an additional 1 T soy sauce. Blend these ingredients together using a blender or food processor until smooth.
Next, prepare the green beans. Trim both ends of the 1 lb fresh green beans and cut them in half if they are too long. Toss the green beans with 1 to 2 tablespoons of the glaze to coat them lightly.
Once the oven is ready, take out a sheet pan and spray it lightly with non-stick spray. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting it drain well, and arrange the green beans in a single layer on the hot sheet pan.
Place the chicken pieces among the green beans on the sheet pan, ensuring they are spaced out appropriately for even cooking.
Brush half of the remaining glaze over the chicken and green beans, ensuring everything is well coated.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. After this time, check to see if the chicken has released any water; if so, use a paper towel to blot it up.
Brush the chicken and beans with the remaining glaze and return them to the oven for an additional 10 minutes. This will deepen the flavors and create a lovely glaze.
Once cooked, remove from the oven and, if needed, blot any extra liquid again. Finally, sprinkle with 1 T toasted sesame seeds for that finishing touch and serve hot.

Things Worth Knowing

Marination Time: Marinating the chicken for at least 6 hours is crucial for flavor. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes is better than none, but the longer, the better!
Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps achieve the right texture and caramelization.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables in this dish. Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas would also work wonderfully!
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

Tips and Tricks about Asian Chicken and Green Beans

Cooking Asian Chicken and Green Beans is a joyful experience, and there are plenty of tips to make it even better!

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool before sealing.
Freezing: If you want to prepare meals in advance, you can freeze the marinated chicken. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or cauliflower rice to soak up the extra glaze.
Meal Prep: Consider making a double batch for meal prep. This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Adjusting Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of Sriracha according to your heat preference. You can also add fresh chili if you like it extra spicy!

How to Serve Asian Chicken and Green Beans

Serving Asian Chicken and Green Beans can be just as delightful as preparing it! Here’s how to elevate your dining experience:

With Rice: Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up the savory glaze. It’s a perfect combination!
As a Meal Prep Option: This dish is ideal for meal prepping. Portion it into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week.
Plating: For a restaurant-style presentation, plate the green beans in a circle and place the chicken pieces in the center. Drizzle some extra glaze on top!
At Family Gatherings: It’s a great dish for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can be easily multiplied for large groups.
Seasonal Pairing: In the summer, serve this dish with a side of chilled cucumber salad to balance the flavors and add a refreshing crunch.
Garnish: Consider sprinkling additional toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for added flavor and decoration.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Asian Chicken and Green Beans. However, it’s best to thaw it completely before marinating to ensure even flavor absorption. You can thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Just make sure to marinate it for a sufficient time to achieve the best flavor!

Absolutely! One of the great things about Asian Chicken and Green Beans is that it can be prepared ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Additionally, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container, making it perfect for meal prep! The flavors will meld beautifully overnight.

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed rice or cauliflower rice to soak up the delicious sauce. You could also serve it with a fresh salad or some sautéed vegetables for an extra boost of nutrition. It’s versatile enough to work with whatever you have on hand!

The spice level of Asian Chicken and Green Beans can be easily adjusted. The Sriracha sauce provides a mild heat, but if you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount or leave it out entirely. Conversely, if you love heat, you can add more Sriracha or even fresh chilies. It’s all about personal preference!

Conclusion

Asian Chicken and Green Beans is a delightful dish that combines flavors and textures in a way that brings joy to any table. With its easy preparation and vibrant ingredients, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s not just about eating, it’s about making memories!