If you are craving a vibrant, flavorful, and quick meal that packs a punch, the Chicken Green Bean Stir Fry with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner to add to your dinner rotation. This dish combines tender, crispy chicken pieces with crisp-tender green beans and sweet red peppers, all tossed in a luscious sweet chili sauce that brings the perfect balance of sweetness and heat. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing friends, this dish is colorful, nutritious, and bursting with layers of delicious texture and flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is a wonderful example of how simple, well-chosen ingredients create an outstanding dish. Each component contributes something unique, whether it’s the juicy chicken thighs, crisp green beans, or the irresistible sweet chili sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These provide juicy, flavorful bites that stay tender through stir-frying.
- Cornstarch: Coats the chicken for a delicious crispy outer texture.
- Vegetable or olive oil: For cooking the chicken and vegetables evenly without burning.
- Red bell pepper: Adds vibrant color and a subtle sweetness.
- Fresh green beans: Bring a satisfying crunch and fresh earthiness.
- Garlic and fresh ginger: Elevate the aroma and depth of flavor with their aromatic qualities.
- Garlic powder: Boosts garlic flavor evenly throughout the chicken.
- Crushed red pepper: Optional, for a bit of heat to balance the sweet chili sauce.
- Sesame oil: Adds a toasty, nutty note that complements the sauce perfectly.
- Sweet Thai chili sauce: The star of the dish, bringing sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy flavors in every bite.
How to Make Chicken Green Bean Stir Fry with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by tossing your bite-sized chicken thigh pieces with a tablespoon of oil, fresh garlic, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Then add cornstarch to coat each piece evenly. This coating is key to achieving the crispy, golden exterior that makes this Chicken Green Bean Stir Fry with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe so irresistible.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken in batches so they don’t crowd the pan. Let each piece cook about 4 to 5 minutes per side until they develop that beautiful crisp, golden crust. Once done, remove and set aside—it’s important to give the chicken its own space to get perfectly crispy.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Start by sautéing the red bell pepper for 3 to 4 minutes so it softens slightly and releases its sweetness. Then add your green beans and stir-fry for about 4 to 5 minutes until they’re tender but still retain a satisfying crunch. Finish with minced garlic and ginger, cooking just 30 seconds until fragrant—this quick step wakes up the flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet now brimming with veggies. Pour in the sweet Thai chili sauce along with sesame oil and the optional crushed red pepper for a slight kick. Stir everything gently but thoroughly so every piece shines with that glossy, flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Serve
Serve your Chicken Green Bean Stir Fry with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe piping hot, ideally over fluffy white rice or your favorite noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions—these little touches add extra texture and color to make your meal look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Chicken Green Bean Stir Fry with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing with sesame seeds imparts a subtle nutty crunch, while fresh green onions add a pop of vibrant color and mild sharpness, both enhancing the overall presentation and flavor profile of this dish wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs best with simple steamed rice or garlic fried rice to soak up all that delightful sauce. If you prefer noodles, try egg noodles or rice noodles for a chewy contrast. A light cucumber salad or pickled vegetables can also offer a refreshing balance.
Creative Ways to Present
To elevate this Chicken Green Bean Stir Fry with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe for guests, serve it in individual bowls lined with fresh lettuce leaves or atop a bed of steamed jasmine rice molded with a ring tin. Adding a wedge of lime on the side gives a zesty option for squeezing over, adding brightness to each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. This dish stays fresh for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy the lovely combination of flavors well beyond the initial meal.
Freezing
You can freeze your Chicken Green Bean Stir Fry with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe by placing cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags. While it freezes well, note that green beans may lose some of their crunch, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to revive the crispness of the chicken and green beans while warming the sauce without drying it out. Avoid microwaving for best texture results, though it works well in a pinch.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs stay juicier and more forgiving during stir-frying, boneless skinless chicken breasts can work well if you cut them evenly and cook carefully to avoid drying out.
Is frozen green beans okay to use?
Yes, frozen steamed green beans are a convenient alternative to fresh ones. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the stir fry to prevent excess moisture from diluting the sauce.
Can I make the sweet chili sauce from scratch?
Definitely! Making your own sweet chili sauce lets you customize the sweetness and heat levels. A basic version typically uses sugar, vinegar, chili flakes, and garlic simmered until thickened.
How spicy is this recipe?
The crushed red pepper is optional, so you can adjust the spice level easily to your preference. The sweet chili sauce usually has a gentle heat, so the dish can be mild or pleasantly spicy depending on your choice.
What can I use instead of sesame oil?
If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute with a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil, though this will change the nutty aroma slightly. Adding toasted sesame seeds can help boost that sesame flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Green Bean Stir Fry with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe is a true gem that brings incredible flavor and texture together in a flash. Its simplicity combined with the vibrant sauce makes it a dish you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner party. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, this stir fry will become one of your favorite go-to meals, guaranteed to brighten any dinner table.
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Chicken Green Bean Stir Fry with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and flavorful Chicken Green Bean Stir Fry featuring tender chicken thighs coated in cornstarch, stir-fried with fresh green beans and red bell peppers, then tossed in a sweet Thai chili sauce with aromatic garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight meal served over rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil), divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (or use frozen, steamed)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (optional)
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional for spice)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1/2 cup sweet Thai chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the diced chicken with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Then add the cornstarch and mix thoroughly until each piece of chicken is fully coated.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. In batches, place the chicken pieces in the skillet and cook until crispy and golden on all sides, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add additional oil if necessary. Sauté the sliced red bell pepper for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the green beans and stir-fry for another 4-5 minutes until they become tender. Stir in minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the sweet Thai chili sauce and sesame oil, then sprinkle crushed red pepper if using. Toss everything together and stir well so all pieces are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the chicken and vegetable stir-fry hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- To make this dish gluten-free, ensure the sweet Thai chili sauce is gluten-free or prepare a homemade version.
- If you prefer less spice, omit the crushed red pepper.
- For a lower-fat option, use olive oil instead of vegetable oil and reduce the amount of sesame oil.
- Frozen green beans can be used but should be steamed or thawed beforehand.
- Customize by adding other vegetables like snap peas or carrots if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
