Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice

Posted on March 19, 2025

The aroma of sesame chicken wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a cold day. Imagine tender pieces of chicken coated in a glossy sesame glaze, mingling with crisp green beans and fluffy rice, creating a symphony of flavors that makes taste buds dance. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to any gathering.

Picture this: it’s a weeknight, and you’re faced with the age-old dilemma of what to cook for dinner. You want something quick yet impressive enough to surprise your family or friends. Enter sesame chicken with green beans and rice—a delightful dish that promises to elevate your dinner table without requiring hours of culinary labor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines ease of preparation with an explosion of flavor that delights everyone
It looks gorgeous on the plate, adding visual appeal to any meal
You can switch up ingredients based on what’s in your fridge for maximum versatility
Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings!

I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; the looks on their faces were priceless as they devoured every last bite. It became our go-to recipe for “I forgot to plan dinner” nights!

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 breasts but adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves for robust flavor; they’re essential for that aromatic punch.
Green Beans: Fresh or frozen work well; look for bright green beans that snap when bent.
Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way; it adds a nutty depth that’s hard to resist.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce so you can control the saltiness in your dish.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness to balance out the savory elements—essential for that perfect glaze.
Rice (Jasmine or Basmati): Fluffy rice serves as the perfect base; cook it just right for texture.

For the Sauce:

Sesame Seeds: Toasted seeds add crunch and flavor; don’t skip this step!
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce; mix it well to avoid clumps.
Water or Chicken Broth: Use broth for added flavor; it enhances the overall taste profile beautifully.

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

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Rice: Start by rinsing 1 cup of jasmine or basmati rice under cold water until it runs clear. Combine it with 2 cups of water in a pot and bring to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and let simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy.

Cook the Chicken: While the rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced boneless chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown on all sides and fully cooked—about 6-8 minutes.

Add Aromatics & Greens: Toss in minced garlic during the last minute of cooking chicken. The moment you smell that fragrant garlic filling your kitchen is when you know you’re doing it right! Then add prepared green beans and sauté until they’re bright green but still crisp—around 3-4 minutes.

Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch mixed with water or broth until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet over your chicken and vegetables while stirring continuously until thickened—about 2-3 minutes.

Toss & Serve: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over everything right before serving. Serve warm over fluffy rice—you’ll want to dive in immediately!

Enjoy every bite as flavors meld together beautifully—this dish will quickly become your favorite

This Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice isn’t just another weeknight dinner idea; it’s a celebration on a plate! The mix of textures from crunchy green beans to tender chicken paired with fragrant rice creates an unforgettable dining experience. So grab your apron and get ready to delight your taste buds

You Must Know

Sesame chicken with green beans and rice is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience!
The crunch of the beans and the savory sauce create a mouthwatering adventure that will impress your taste buds
This is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to enhance flavor, then sauté the green beans while the chicken cooks for efficiency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out green beans for broccoli or add some crushed red pepper for extra heat.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on low heat in a skillet for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To make your sesame chicken shine, always use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor
Ensure your pan is hot before adding the chicken to get that perfect sear
And never underestimate the importance of letting it rest after cooking!

There’s something special about making sesame chicken with green beans and rice; my friends rave about it every time I serve it at parties!

FAQ

What can I substitute for sesame oil?

You can use olive oil or peanut oil, but sesame oil gives that signature flavor.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but fresh green beans will provide a better texture and taste.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for an exciting kick!