Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice

Sesame Chicken Dish

If you’ve ever craved a dish that dances on your palate like a seasoned chef at a five-star restaurant but can be made in your kitchen, you need this sesame chicken with green beans and rice in your life. Imagine the sweet, nutty aroma wafting through your home as tender chunks of chicken caramelize to golden perfection while vibrant green beans sizzle alongside them.

Sesame Chicken Dish

Now let’s take a trip down memory lane where I first encountered this culinary masterpiece. Picture this: it was a rainy Wednesday night, the kind of evening where Netflix and pajamas reign supreme. My best friend decided to whip up some homemade sesame chicken with green beans and rice. We laughed, we spilled soy sauce everywhere, but most importantly, we feasted like royalty! This dish is fantastic for cozy family dinners or impressing guests without breaking a sweat; it promises an explosion of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This sesame chicken with green beans and rice is quick to prepare on busy weeknights
  • The combination of flavors creates a taste sensation that’s both comforting and exciting
  • Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any plate
  • Serve it as a complete meal or pair it with other dishes for variety

A small paragraph of a Personal anecdote of 15 to 20 words sharing a specific experience with the recipe

My family couldn’t stop raving about this sesame chicken; even my picky eater brother asked for seconds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust for larger gatherings if needed.
  • Fresh Green Beans: Choose crisp green beans for their snap; they add great texture.
  • Sesame Oil: This aromatic oil brings out that authentic flavor; don’t skimp on quality.
  • Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness without sacrificing taste.
  • Honey: Adds sweetness to balance the savory elements perfectly; use pure honey for the best flavor.
  • Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the overall aroma; choose firm heads for maximum flavor.
  • Ginger Root: A small amount adds zest; freshly grated ginger works best here.
  • Rice (White or Brown): Choose your favorite type of rice; serve fluffy alongside the main dish.

For the Sauce:

  • Cornstarch: Use cornstarch mixed with water to thicken your sauce nicely without clumps.
  • Sesame Seeds: Toasted seeds add crunch and visual appeal—don’t skip this step!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat your stove by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nice and warm. Drizzle in some sesame oil—watch it shimmer!

Prepare your ingredients by cutting the boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Make sure they’re uniform so they cook evenly.

Add the chopped garlic and ginger into the hot skillet first, sautéing until fragrant—about 30 seconds should do! You want those aromas dancing around your kitchen.

Toss in your diced chicken pieces into the skillet, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper as they cook until golden brown on all sides—approximately 5-7 minutes.

While that’s happening, bring water to boil in another pot for your rice according to package directions. Fluffy rice is essential here!

Now let’s make that irresistible sauce! Combine soy sauce, honey, cornstarch mixed in water, plus optional chili flakes if you’re feeling adventurous—in a small bowl.

Pour this mixture over your cooked chicken when it’s golden brown. Stir well until everything is coated beautifully—about 2 minutes should do until thickened.

Finally, toss in those fresh green beans and cover briefly until they are bright green yet still crunchy—around 2-3 minutes will do!

Serve steaming hot over fluffy rice garnished generously with toasted sesame seeds that add both flair and crunch—dinner is ready!

You Must Know

  • The secret to delicious sesame chicken is in the sauce; balance sweet and savory for maximum flavor
  • Fresh ingredients elevate the dish, creating vibrant colors and enticing aromas
  • Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a delightful crunch that enhances texture and taste

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken while cooking rice. Sear the chicken until golden, then stir-fry the green beans for a tender-crisp bite. This sequence maximizes flavor and saves time, ensuring everything is hot and ready to serve together.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out green beans for snap peas or broccoli. Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or hoisin for unique flavors. Toss in some crushed red pepper if you’re feeling spicy; it adds an exciting kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, maintaining that delicious crispy texture while avoiding sogginess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfect sesame chicken, aim for high heat when searing; this seals in moisture and flavor
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and browning
  • Always taste as you go; adjustments can make all the difference in flavor balance!

Sometimes, I whip up this dish on busy weeknights when friends drop by unexpectedly, and they always rave about it! It’s become my go-to recipe that never fails to impress.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen green beans for sesame chicken?

Yes, just thaw them before adding to avoid excess water.

What can I substitute for sesame oil?

Try using olive oil or peanut oil if sesame oil isn’t available.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Print
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Sesame Chicken Dish

Easy Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice


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  • Author: Ann Foster
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Indulge in this easy sesame chicken with green beans and rice, featuring tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a sweet-savory sauce for a satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 34 breasts)
  • 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add sesame oil.
  2. Add minced garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  3. Add chicken pieces; season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on all sides (5-7 minutes).
  4. While chicken cooks, prepare rice according to package instructions.
  5. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, cornstarch slurry, and optional chili flakes.
  6. Pour sauce over chicken; stir to coat and thicken (about 2 minutes).
  7. Add green beans; cover and steam until bright green yet crunchy (2-3 minutes).
  8. Serve hot over rice, garnished with toasted sesame seeds.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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Ann Foster

Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Ann Foster! Born and raised in California’s Central Valley, I found my passion for cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, I traveled across the country exploring new flavors and cooking techniques. This website is my passion project—where I share delicious recipes meant to bring people together, one meal at a time. Welcome to my culinary journey!

Chef Ann