Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

String Bean Chicken Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 3 reviews

  • Author: Molly
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This String Bean Chicken recipe features tender slices of marinated chicken breast stir-fried with crisp green beans in a savory black bean sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with robust flavors from garlic, ginger, and fermented black beans, this dish makes a satisfying and healthy main course served best over steamed rice.


Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs), sliced against the grain into 1/4” (5mm) thickness
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fermented black beans (or black bean sauce)
  • 1/3 cup chicken stock
  • 4 teaspoons sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 lb green beans, cut to 1” (2.5 cm) long pieces
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons ginger, minced
  • 2 green onions, chopped

Cooking Oil

  • 2 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil)


Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine the sliced chicken breast with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 2 teaspoons cornstarch in a large bowl. Stir well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for 15 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons fermented black beans or black bean sauce, 1/3 cup chicken stock, 4 teaspoons sugar, and 2 teaspoons cornstarch until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of peanut or vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer and sear without stirring for about 1 minute until the bottom is golden. Flip and cook the other side for another minute until golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a large plate.
  4. Sear the Green Beans: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the skillet and reduce heat to medium. Add the green beans and stir occasionally, cooking until the beans develop some browned spots and become tender, about 10 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low if the pan starts smoking excessively.
  5. Cook Aromatics: Increase heat back to medium-high and add the chopped garlic, minced ginger, and green onions to the skillet. Drizzle with a little more oil or about 2 tablespoons chicken stock to prevent sticking. Stir and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Combine and Thicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Give the sauce mixture a quick stir to re-dissolve the cornstarch, then pour it into the pan. Stir constantly for a few minutes as the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and green beans evenly.
  7. Serve: Immediately transfer the String Bean Chicken to a serving plate and serve hot over steamed rice for a delicious main dish.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of chili paste when cooking the aromatics.
  • If you cannot find fermented black beans, substitute with 1 tablespoon black bean sauce or omit for a milder flavor.
  • Use chicken thighs instead of breast for a juicier, more flavorful result.
  • Stir-frying green beans until tender-crisp keeps a nice texture; adjust cooking time to your preference.
  • This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the fresh texture and vibrant flavors.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Chinese