Description
This sesame chicken with green beans and rice is a delicious Asian-inspired dinner that’s quick to make and full of flavour. Tender chicken is marinated and stir-fried, paired with crisp green beans and fluffy rice, then coated in a savoury sesame sauce. This dish is wholesome, satisfying, and better than takeout, perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp grated ginger
1 tsp garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp grated ginger
1 tsp garlic, minced
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp water
For the Rice and Green Beans:
1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
2 tbsp vegetable oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Add chicken, stir to coat, and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook rice: Rinse rice thoroughly. Add rice and water to a saucepan. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15–20 minutes. Fluff and set aside.
Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken. Cook 5–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Sauté green beans: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp oil. Add green beans and cook 3–5 minutes until tender-crisp. Add a splash of water to steam if needed.
Make the sauce: Whisk all sauce ingredients together. Pour into skillet with green beans and let simmer until thickened (1–2 minutes).
Combine and serve: Return chicken to the skillet and toss with beans and sauce until coated. Serve over cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.
Notes
Use tofu or shrimp as protein alternatives.
Add bell peppers or carrots for colour and crunch.
Brown rice adds more fibre and nutrients.
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers for up to 3 days. To restore moisture, reheat with a splash of water.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Keywords: sesame chicken, green beans, rice bowl, healthy stir-fry, Asian dinner, weeknight meal, sesame sauce chicken, quick dinner recipe