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Homemade Panda Express-Inspired String Bean Chicken photo
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Panda Express-Inspired String Bean Chicken

A quick, savory stir-fry of marinated chicken, green beans, and bell pepper served over steamed rice.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 small boneless skinless chicken breast about 8 ounces, cut into strips
  • 1 tablespoon oil use your favorite cooking oil
  • 1/2 cup onion chopped into 1/2-inch squares
  • 1/2 cup water divided
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 6 ounces green beans trimmed and halved
  • 1/2 red bell pepper diced into 1/2-inch squares
  • salt to taste
  • white steamed rice for serving

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, sugar, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil.
  • Place the chicken strips in a plastic bag or bowl, pour the marinade over the chicken, toss to coat, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to 12 hours.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large sauté pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add the marinated chicken and cook until cooked through, about 4–6 minutes depending on thickness. Transfer the chicken to a plate and tent with foil.
  • Return the pan to the heat and add a couple tablespoons of the reserved water to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits.
  • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook about 3 minutes, until the onion begins to turn translucent at the edges.
  • Add the green beans and diced red bell pepper and cook about 3 minutes; then add 2 tablespoons of the reserved water and cover. Cook, adding more water as needed, until the vegetables reach your desired doneness, about 3–8 more minutes.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stir to combine, and heat through. Season with salt to taste.
  • Serve the string bean chicken over white steamed rice.

Equipment

  • wok or large sauté pan with lid
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Plate

Notes

  • Panda-style vegetables are often cooked until quite soft; add a few tablespoons of water, cover, and repeat as needed.
  • Toasted sesame oil adds a deep, nutty flavor; regular sesame oil can be used but is less intense.
  • You can marinate the chicken up to 12 hours for more flavor.
  • Adjust salt at the end to taste.