Spicy Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry

Spicy Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty dish that brings together tender pieces of chicken with crisp green beans, all coated in a flavorful sauce with…

By Ava
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October 22, 2025
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Reading time: 5 min

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Spicy Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty dish that brings together tender pieces of chicken with crisp green beans, all coated in a flavorful sauce with just the right amount of heat. The spicy kick wakes up your taste buds, while the fresh green beans add a nice crunch that makes every bite interesting and satisfying.

I love making this stir-fry on busy weeknights when I want something that comes together fast but still feels homemade and special. One of my favorite things about this dish is how easy it is to adjust the spice level, so everyone at the table can enjoy it—just add more or less chili according to your mood. Bonus points for being a great way to get some greens on the plate in a yummy way!

Serving it over steamed rice or noodles is my go-to because the sauce soaks in perfectly, making everything taste even better. Plus, it’s great for leftovers, so I often save some for lunch the next day. This dish always feels like a little celebration in a bowl, and I can’t resist the combination of spicy and fresh flavors every time I make it.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breast: I prefer chicken breast for lean protein and quick cooking. If you want a juicier option, chicken thighs work well and stay tender.

Green Beans: Fresh green beans add a nice crunch. Feel free to swap with snap peas or asparagus for a similar texture and flavor.

Chili Peppers & Chili Flakes: They add the heat! You can use any fresh chili you like or replace chili flakes with sriracha or hot sauce if preferred.

Oyster Sauce: This adds depth and a slight sweetness. If you’re vegetarian or don’t have it, use soy sauce or mushroom sauce instead.

Sesame Oil: Adds a toasty aroma—just a little goes a long way. If you don’t have it, you can skip or replace with a neutral oil.

How Do You Cook Chicken and Green Beans So They Stay Tender-Crisp?

Keeping the green beans crisp and chicken juicy is key here. Start by heating your pan well—medium-high heat is best for quick cooking.

• Cook chicken pieces first until browned and nearly cooked through. This seals in juices.
• Push the chicken aside and add green beans last, so they don’t overcook. Stir-fry for only 4-5 minutes to keep crunch.
• Combine them with the sauce briefly to coat and heat through without losing texture.

Quick, high heat and careful timing will give you tender chicken and crisp, bright green beans every time.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet or wok – perfect for quick, even cooking and tossing the chicken and green beans together.
• Sharp knife – helps you cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces cleanly and slice chili peppers thin.
• Cutting board – keeps your prep organized and safe while chopping ingredients.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – great for stirring and scraping the pan without scratching.
• Measuring spoons – handy to measure sauces and spices accurately for balanced flavor.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein that cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce well.
• Add bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color; they pair nicely with green beans.
• Use hoisin sauce or add a splash of rice vinegar for a slightly sweeter or tangier twist.
• Top with chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for added texture and nuttiness.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet or wok – to stir-fry the chicken and green beans evenly at high heat.
• Sharp knife – for cutting chicken and slicing chili peppers thinly.
• Cutting board – to keep your workspace clean and organized.
• Mixing bowl – to combine the sauce ingredients before adding to the stir-fry.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – perfect for stirring and tossing everything together without scratching your pan.
• Measuring spoons – to measure out the sauces and spices precisely.

Variations and Add-Ins

• Protein swap: Use shrimp, firm tofu, or thinly sliced beef instead of chicken for a different but equally delicious version.
• Vegetable additions: Add sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for more color, crunch, and flavor.
• Sauce tweaks: Try adding a splash of rice vinegar or a teaspoon of hoisin sauce for a tangy or sweet twist.
• Crunchy toppings: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or cashews over the finished dish for extra texture.
• Mild option: Reduce the chili peppers and omit the chili flakes to make it less spicy but still tasty.

Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Stir-Fry?

Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method in a sealed bag for quicker thawing. Pat it dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can chop your ingredients and mix the sauce ahead. Cook the stir-fry fresh for the best texture, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.

How Do I Control the Spice Level?

Adjust the amount of fresh chili peppers and chili flakes or paste to suit your taste. For less heat, remove the seeds from the peppers or use milder chilies. You can also serve lemon wedges on the side to balance spiciness with a fresh zing.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat to keep the chicken tender and the green beans crisp, adding a splash of water or soy sauce if the sauce thickens too much.