Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice

Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice is a flavorful, well-balanced meal that combines tender chicken, crisp green beans, and a savory sesame sauce. This dish is a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and umami flavors, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or meal prep. Served over fluffy rice, it’s a complete and satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Packed with flavor – A delicious balance of savory soy sauce, nutty sesame, and a hint of sweetness.
• Healthy and nutritious – Lean protein, fresh veggies, and wholesome rice make this a well-rounded meal.
• Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to fit dietary preferences.
• Great for meal prep – Stores and reheats well for easy lunches or dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Green beans, trimmed
• Cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
• Soy sauce
• Honey or brown sugar
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, grated
• Sesame oil
• Cornstarch
• Rice vinegar
• Sesame seeds
• Green onions, chopped
• Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Directions

1. Prepare the sauce – In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and a dash of sesame oil. Set aside.
2. Coat the chicken – Toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until lightly coated.
3. Cook the chicken – Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4. Sauté the green beans – In the same pan, add the green beans and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Combine everything – Return the chicken to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir until everything is well coated and the sauce thickens.
6. Garnish and serve – Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over warm rice and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
• Vegetarian Option – Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh.
• Low-Carb Alternative – Serve over cauliflower rice or omit rice altogether.
• Extra Crunch – Top with crushed peanuts or cashews.
• Different Vegetables – Swap green beans for broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but blanch them first to maintain their texture.

What type of rice works best?

Jasmine, basmati, or brown rice all work well.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to the sauce.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well and reheats easily.

How can I add more vegetables?

Try adding mushrooms, carrots, or baby corn for variety.

Can I air-fry the chicken instead?

Yes! Coat the chicken lightly with oil and air-fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.

What can I substitute for sesame oil?

Try toasted peanut oil or omit it if needed.

Can I make this without sugar?

Yes! Use a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit or simply leave it out.

Conclusion

Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a rich, savory sauce, tender chicken, and crisp green beans, this meal is a surefire hit. Whether you enjoy it fresh or as leftovers, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!

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