Mushroom Chicken with Green Beans

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, look no further than this Mushroom Chicken with Green Beans. This dish combines tender pieces of chicken with earthy baby portobello mushrooms and crisp green beans, all brought together with a flavorful sauce. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something nutritious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s all cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

Why It Works Every Time

This Mushroom Chicken with Green Beans recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, the chicken is marinated in a simple mixture that keeps it juicy and tender. The combination of fresh ingredients, including garlic and ginger, adds layers of flavor without overwhelming the dish. The baby portobello mushrooms provide an umami kick, while the crisp green beans add a delightful crunch. Finally, the use of both soy sauce and balsamic vinegar creates a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors that tie everything together beautifully.

Ingredient Checklist

• 12 oz chicken breast, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tbsp corn starch
• 1 tbsp canola oil
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• 16 oz baby portobello mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Cook’s Kit

• Large skillet or wok: Ideal for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Cutting board and knife: For chopping the chicken and vegetables.
• Bowl: To mix the marinade and coat the chicken.

The Method for Mushroom Chicken with Green Beans

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken breast pieces with salt, the lightly beaten egg, and corn starch. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for about 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is marinating, slice the baby portobello mushrooms and trim the green beans. Set them aside, ready to add to the skillet.

Step 3: Heat the Oils

In a large skillet or wok, heat the canola oil, vegetable oil, and sesame oil over medium-high heat. The combination of oils helps to create a fragrant base for the dish.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 5: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.

Step 6: Add the Mushrooms and Green Beans

Add the sliced baby portobello mushrooms and trimmed green beans to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 7: Combine and Sauce It Up

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Drizzle the soy sauce and balsamic vinegar over the mixture. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the Mushroom Chicken with Green Beans to serving plates. Enjoy hot, perhaps over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal!

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

• Chicken Breast: You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
• Mushrooms: Any variety of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, can be used.
• Green Beans: Broccoli or snap peas can be a great alternative.
• Canola Oil: Use olive oil for a different flavor profile.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch.

Cook’s Commentary

The beauty of this Mushroom Chicken with Green Beans recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the flavors to suit your preferences by adding more spices or even a splash of chili sauce for heat. It’s also a fantastic way to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand. Just toss them in during the sautéing step, and you’ll have a colorful, nutritious dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

This dish is perfect for meal prep, too. You can divide it into portions for lunch throughout the week, making it a great choice for those looking for quick, healthy options. Plus, it holds up well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.

Best Ways to Store

To store your Mushroom Chicken with Green Beans, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it for a few minutes or heat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before marinating and cooking. Cooking frozen chicken directly can result in uneven cooking.

What can I serve with Mushroom Chicken with Green Beans?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You can also serve it with a side salad for extra greens.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce. You can also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! This Mushroom Chicken with Green Beans is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in individual portions for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

In Closing

If you’re craving a dish that’s easy to make yet packed with flavor, this Mushroom Chicken with Green Beans is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its quick cooking time and minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for those busy evenings when you want a home-cooked meal without a lot of fuss. Try it tonight and enjoy the delicious results!