How to Cook Chinese-Style Chicken with String Beans

Introduction to Chinese-Style Chicken with String Beans

Chinese-style chicken with string beans is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken with crisp string beans in a savory sauce. It’s a popular recipe among those who love authentic Chinese flavors but want a simple meal that can be prepared in under an hour. This dish is often enjoyed as part of a larger Chinese meal, and it’s versatile enough to be made with different ingredients or sauces based on your preferences.

The best part about this dish is that it offers a delightful contrast between the juicy chicken and the crunchy string beans, all coated in a savory and aromatic sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, learning how to cook Chinese-style chicken with string beans is a rewarding and delicious experience.

Ingredients for Chinese-Style Chicken with String Beans

To make this simple yet delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Fresh string beans (trimmed and cut into halves or thirds)
• Garlic (minced)
• Ginger (minced)
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Sesame oil
• Sugar (optional, for sweetness)
• Cornstarch (for thickening sauce)
• Vegetable oil (for stir-frying)

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful sauce that complements both the chicken and string beans. Some recipes might also include a dash of chili sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat. The balance of salty, sweet, and savory flavors is what makes this dish a favorite for many.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Chinese-Style Chicken with String Beans

Now that you have your ingredients ready, follow these simple steps to prepare Chinese-style chicken with string beans:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and marinate it with a tablespoon of soy sauce, a teaspoon of sesame oil, and a pinch of cornstarch. Set it aside for about 15 minutes.
2. Stir-Fry the String Beans: Heat a bit of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the string beans and stir-fry them for 5-7 minutes until they’re tender but still crisp. Remove them from the pan and set them aside.
3. Cook the Chicken: In the same pan, add a little more oil and stir-fry the garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it turns golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Once the chicken is cooked, return the string beans to the pan. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and a pinch of sugar to the pan. Stir everything together until the sauce thickens and the chicken and beans are coated.
5. Serve: Once everything is well-mixed and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat and serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Chinese-Style Chicken with String Beans

To make your dish even more flavorful and authentic, here are a few tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh string beans and high-quality chicken will always make a difference in the taste of your dish. Don’t compromise on the quality of your ingredients!
• Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a bit more cornstarch with water and add it to the pan while cooking the sauce. You can also adjust the sweetness or saltiness according to your taste.
• Try Different Vegetables: If you’re not a fan of string beans, you can substitute them with other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for a different flavor profile.

Why Chinese-Style Chicken with String Beans is a Favorite Dish

Chinese-style chicken with string beans is a favorite for many reasons. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it also offers a healthy balance of protein and vegetables. The combination of tender chicken and crispy string beans creates a satisfying texture that is both flavorful and nutritious.

This dish also showcases the versatility of Chinese cuisine, allowing you to adapt the recipe to suit your preferences. Whether you enjoy a more savory dish or a sweeter one, you can easily adjust the seasoning to match your tastes. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prepping and can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner throughout the week.