If you’re craving a quick, flavor-packed dinner that tastes better than takeout, this Easy Sesame Chicken Green Bean Stir Fry is exactly what you need. It’s loaded with colorful veggies, lean protein, and tossed in a slightly sweet sesame ginger sauce that coats every bite perfectly. Finished with crunchy roasted cashews and fresh scallions, it’s a 30-minute meal that feels anything but basic.
Originally created as a clean-out-the-fridge dinner, this stir fry quickly became a weeknight favorite thanks to its bold flavor and simple ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Stir Fry
- Ready in just 30 minutes
- Protein-packed and veggie-loaded
- Paleo-friendly (with coconut aminos)
- Gluten-free and dairy-free
- Perfect for meal prep
- Better than takeout
The Sesame Ginger Stir Fry Sauce
A great stir fry always comes down to the sauce. This one combines:
- Soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
- Sesame oil
- Rice vinegar
- Garlic
- Fresh ginger
- Coconut sugar or brown sugar
- Red pepper flakes
- Sesame seeds
- Arrowroot or cornstarch for thickening
The result is a glossy, slightly sweet, savory sauce that thickens beautifully and clings to the chicken and vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- ⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
- ⅓ cup water
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons coconut sugar or brown sugar (or 1 tablespoon honey)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (or 1 tablespoon tahini)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ tablespoon arrowroot starch (or cornstarch)
For the Chicken
- ½ tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 pound lean ground chicken (or ground turkey)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables
- ½ tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 large carrots, thinly sliced
- 1 white onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 12 ounces fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
For Serving
- ½ cup roasted cashews, chopped
- Scallions (green parts only)
- Extra sesame seeds
How to Make Chicken Green Bean Stir Fry
1. Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients. Set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add ground chicken, season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Break up the meat and cook until no longer pink. Transfer to a bowl.
3. Cook the Vegetables
In the same pan, add sesame oil. Sauté onion and carrots for 2–4 minutes until softened. Add green beans and bell pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes until green beans are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
4. Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the pan. Reduce heat to low and pour in the sauce. Cook 2–4 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
5. Garnish & Serve
Top with roasted cashews, sesame seeds, and scallions. Serve immediately.
Serves 4.
Protein Options
You can easily switch up the protein:
- Diced chicken breast or thighs
- Ground turkey
- Cubed tofu
- Chickpeas (for a vegan option)
Veggie Swaps
If you don’t have green beans, try:
- Broccoli
- Asparagus
- Snow peas
- Mushrooms
- Extra bell peppers
What to Serve With Stir Fry
This dish is delicious on its own or served over:
- Brown rice
- Coconut rice
- Quinoa
- Cauliflower rice
- Rice noodles or ramen
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
This Easy Sesame Chicken Green Bean Stir Fry delivers bold flavor, crunchy veggies, and satisfying protein in just 30 minutes. It’s simple, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.