If you’re craving a dish that’s quick, wholesome, and bursting with vibrant flavors, this Green Bean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Tender chicken strips get perfectly caramelized alongside crisp-tender green beans, all coated in a light, tangy sauce that brings everything together beautifully. It’s a delightful balance of savory, zesty, and slightly sweet notes that makes weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. Plus, it’s one of those meals that’s as satisfying as it is simple – exactly what we all need when life gets busy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with cooked green beans and slices of sautéed onion. The green beans are bright green, long, and whole, mixed evenly with translucent, slightly browned onion strips. Small bits of minced garlic are scattered on top, adding texture and a light beige color contrast. The bowl sits on a brown wooden surface, showing a rustic and warm setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient has a role in creating a harmonious flavor and texture that’s vibrant, fresh, and downright delicious. From the juicy chicken to the snappy green beans, every component works together to make this dish a true winner.

1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast: Thin strips cook quickly, staying juicy and tender throughout.
1 tbsp soy sauce (for chicken): Adds a deep umami foundation to the chicken’s flavor.
2 tsp cornstarch: Ensures the chicken has a silky, slightly thickened coating that locks in moisture.
½ tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor without overpowering.
½ tsp red pepper flakes: Gives a subtle, warming kick for a little heat.
2 tbsp soy sauce (for sauce): Provides a rich, savory backbone to the stir fry sauce.
2 tbsp rice vinegar: Brings brightness and a gentle tang that balances the soy sauce.
2 tbsp dry sherry: Adds a slightly sweet complexity and depth.
1 tbsp sugar: Smooths out the sauce with a touch of sweetness.
2 tbsp Land O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt, divided: Imparts richness and a hint of sea saltiness that enhances both veggies and chicken.
12 oz fresh green beans, trimmed: Crisp, colorful, and full of fresh flavor to complement the chicken.
½ medium onion, sliced: Adds natural sweetness and a tender bite.
1 tbsp garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory punch.
1 tsp ginger, minced: Introduces a bright, zesty warmth that lifts the entire dish.

How to Make Green Bean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the chicken strips with soy sauce, cornstarch, salt, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl. Give everything a good toss so each piece is nicely coated. This marinade not only seasons the chicken but also helps keep it tender and juicy when cooked. Set it aside to let all those flavors mingle while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Mix the Stir Fry Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, dry sherry, and sugar. This sauce strikes a perfect balance between savory, tangy, and slightly sweet—exactly what brings your stir fry together. Having it ready before cooking means you can pour it in at just the right moment to finish off the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of the Land O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the trimmed green beans and sliced onion, cooking for 3 to 5 minutes while stirring frequently. You’re aiming for lightly charred beans with a tender-crisp texture that adds a delightful snap to each bite. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant to release their essential oils and deepen the flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Remove the green beans and onions from the pan and set them aside. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the wok, then add the marinated chicken strips. Cook them over medium-high heat until they are browned and cooked through, which typically takes just a few minutes. This quick cooking keeps the chicken juicy and well-seared for that wonderful texture contrast.

Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking

Return the green beans and onions to the wok with the chicken, then pour in the prepared sauce mixture. Stir everything together and cook for about 2 minutes until the sauce thickens just slightly and beautifully coats all the ingredients. This finishing touch creates a lovely glaze that makes each mouthful irresistible. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

How to Serve Green Bean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

This image shows a close-up of a stir-fry dish in a black pan. The dish has three main layers: the bottom layer is light brown cooked chicken pieces with a slightly dry texture and some char marks, scattered evenly. The middle layer has bright green fresh green beans, cooked but still firm, mixed well with the chicken. The top layer includes translucent cooked white onion slices placed randomly over the chicken and beans. The background around the pan is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To add a little extra pop of flavor and texture, consider garnishing your stir fry with toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh scallions. These not only bring a lovely crunch but also make for an inviting presentation. A sprinkle of crushed peanuts or a few red chili flakes can also add a bit of extra excitement if you like things a little spicier.

Side Dishes

This Green Bean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe shines as a main dish, especially alongside fluffy steamed rice or fragrant jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a low-carb option, serve it on a bed of cauliflower rice or alongside stir-fried noodles. Even a simple side of garlic-roasted potatoes pairs surprisingly well, balancing the tangy sauce with some comforting starch.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress a crowd or just mix things up? Serve the stir fry over a noodle nest, like soba or rice noodles, and drizzle with extra sauce for a restaurant-style look. Alternatively, stuff it into lettuce cups for a fun, hands-on way to enjoy this dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like cilantro or Thai basil, adds a fragrant freshness that takes your presentation to the next level.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from this Green Bean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe (which might be tough because it’s so tasty), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days and remain a fantastic quick meal for lunches or easy dinners.

Freezing

Freezing is possible but with some caveats: the green beans might turn a bit softer when reheated from frozen. If you want to freeze the dish, place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 to 2 months for best quality. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat for the best texture. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much to keep the dish moist. Microwaving works too—just cover the container to retain moisture and heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans for this stir fry?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans if fresh aren’t available. Just be aware that frozen beans tend to be softer, so cook them for slightly less time to avoid mushiness and achieve a pleasant texture.

What can I substitute for dry sherry in the sauce?

If you don’t have dry sherry on hand, a dry white wine or a splash of chicken broth with a teaspoon of sugar can work well. These alternatives provide a similar depth and balance of flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a mild heat from the red pepper flakes, which you can adjust to your taste. If you prefer it milder, simply reduce or omit the flakes for a gentle warmth without overpowering the dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth in place of chicken stock if adding any extra liquid. The green beans and aromatic sauce still shine beautifully in a vegetarian version.

How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?

Using cornstarch in the marinade is key—it creates a light coating that helps lock in moisture. Also, cook the chicken quickly over high heat to prevent drying it out while getting a nice sear.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about a dish as approachable and flavorful as this Green Bean Chicken Stir Fry Recipe. It makes weekday dinners feel effortless but thoughtful, with that perfect harmony of fresh vegetables and tender chicken wrapped in a shine of delicious sauce. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how easy and rewarding cooking this recipe can be. Trust me, it will quickly become a staple in your rotation!