Thai Chicken Stir Fry with Green Beans: A Quick and Delicious Weeknight Dinner

There’s nothing quite like the vibrant, savory flavors of Thai cuisine to elevate your dinner table. This Thai Chicken Stir Fry with Green Beans is a simple yet flavor-packed recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a perfectly balanced sauce, this dish will make you feel like a culinary master, even on a tight schedule.

Why You’ll Love Thai Chicken Stir Fry with Green Beans

Imagine walking into your kitchen and whipping up a meal that tastes as though it came straight from your favorite Thai restaurant. This recipe combines the rich umami of oyster and soy sauces, the subtle sweetness of brown sugar, and the aromatic freshness of basil. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and versatile—ideal for a cozy family meal or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients for Thai Chicken Stir Fry with Green Beans

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken breast, thinly sliced	1 lb
Green beans, trimmed	1 lb
Onion, thinly sliced	1/2 cup
Red bell pepper, sliced	1
Garlic, minced	3 cloves
Soy sauce	2 tbsp
Oyster sauce	2 tbsp
Fish sauce	1 tbsp
Brown sugar	1 tbsp
Chili flakes (optional)	1/2 tsp
Vegetable oil	2 tbsp
Water	1/4 cup
Fresh basil leaves, chopped	1/4 cup

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and chili flakes (if using).
2. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and set the sauce aside for later.

2. Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is no longer pink.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Stir Fry the Vegetables

1. Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet.
2. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced onion and red bell pepper, cooking for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Add the green beans and stir fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.

4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Pour in the prepared sauce and 1/4 cup of water.
3. Stir everything together to coat evenly.
4. Let the mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

5. Finish with Basil

1. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves.
2. Let the residual heat release the basil’s fragrance.

6. Serve the Dish

1. Serve the Thai chicken stir fry hot over a bed of steamed rice.
2. Garnish with additional basil leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	300 kcal
Protein	32 g
Carbohydrates	15 g
Fat	12 g
Sodium	850 mg

Tips for Success

• Cut Ingredients Uniformly: Slice the chicken and vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t Overcook the Beans: The green beans should be tender but still crisp for the best texture.
• Use Fresh Basil: Thai basil works best for authentic flavor, but sweet basil is a good substitute if it’s not available.

Serving Suggestions

1. With Steamed Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice complements the flavors beautifully.
2. Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter meal.
3. Add a Side: Pair with Thai spring rolls or a tangy cucumber salad for a complete Thai-inspired meal.

FAQs About Thai Chicken Stir Fry with Green Beans

1. Can I use a different protein?

Yes, this recipe works well with shrimp, tofu, or beef strips. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with tofu and use soy sauce instead of fish and oyster sauces for a vegetarian-friendly version.

3. What if I don’t have fresh basil?

You can substitute with dried basil, but use only 1 teaspoon as dried herbs are more concentrated.

4. How do I make the dish spicier?

Add extra chili flakes or a teaspoon of Sriracha to the sauce for more heat.

5. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can chop the vegetables and mix the sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Final Thoughts

This Thai Chicken Stir Fry with Green Beans is a quick and flavorful recipe that will become a staple in your dinner rotation. It’s packed with protein, fresh vegetables, and a savory-sweet sauce that’s guaranteed to please the whole family. With just one skillet and a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy meal in under 30 minutes.

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