Chinese-Inspired Chicken with Mushrooms and Green Beans

CATEGORY: Dinner
PREP TIME: 15 minutes
COOK TIME: 20 minutes
TOTAL TIME: 35 minutes
SERVINGS: 4–5

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Savory, restaurant-inspired flavor: A rich, glossy brown sauce coats every bite of chicken and vegetables.

• Easy weeknight dinner: Ready in about 35 minutes using simple ingredients and one skillet.

• Fresh and flavorful: Tender chicken, earthy shiitake mushrooms, and crisp green beans make a delicious combination.

• Family-friendly: A mild, savory dish without unnecessary spice or heat.

• Great for leftovers: Reheats well for an easy lunch or dinner the next day.

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced

• 8 oz fresh shiitake mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced

• 12 oz fresh green beans, trimmed

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp avocado oil or other neutral cooking oil

• Cooked white rice, for serving

Chinese-Inspired Brown Sauce

• ⅓ cup chicken broth

• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce

• ½ tsp brown sugar

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• 2 tsp cornstarch

Substitutions & Variations

• Chicken: Boneless chicken breasts or thighs both work well.

• Mushrooms: Baby bella mushrooms can replace shiitake mushrooms if needed.

• Green beans: Fresh green beans work best, but thawed and thoroughly drained frozen green beans can be used.

• Soy sauce: Substitute tamari for a gluten-free option, checking that the other sauce ingredients are also gluten-free.

How to Make Chinese-Inspired Chicken with Shiitake Mushrooms and Green Beans

1. Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cut chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Make the Brown Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Set aside until ready to use.

3. Cook the Green Beans

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the trimmed green beans and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes. Pour in a splash of water, cover, and allow the green beans to steam for approximately 2 minutes.

4. Add the Mushrooms

Remove the lid and add the sliced mushrooms. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and lightly browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

5. Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Give the prepared brown sauce another quick stir, then pour it over the chicken, mushrooms, and green beans. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring gently, until the sauce thickens and evenly coats everything.

6. Serve Over White Rice

Spoon the chicken, shiitake mushrooms, and green beans onto plates alongside freshly cooked white rice. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the chicken and rice. Serve warm.

A Few Tips for the Best Chinese-Inspired Chicken Stir-Fry

Slice the chicken evenly.
Cut the chicken into similar-sized pieces so everything cooks evenly.

Keep the green beans tender-crisp.
Avoid overcooking the green beans so they maintain their texture and bright green color.

Stir the sauce before adding it.
Cornstarch settles at the bottom of the bowl, so whisk the sauce again before pouring it into the skillet.

What to Serve with Chinese-Inspired Chicken and Shiitake Mushrooms

This flavorful chicken stir-fry is delicious served over white rice, but there are plenty of other ways to enjoy it.

• Steamed white rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the savory brown sauce.

• Brown rice: A hearty alternative with a slightly nutty flavor.

• Fried rice: Serve alongside simple vegetable fried rice for a takeout-inspired dinner.

• Cucumber salad: A refreshing, lightly dressed cucumber salad balances the rich sauce.

How to Store or Make Ahead

Refrigerator:
Allow leftovers to cool slightly, then refrigerate in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Store for up to 3–4 days.

Make-Ahead Tip:
Slice the chicken, trim the green beans, and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store the chicken, vegetables, and sauce separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Stir the sauce again before using.

From My Kitchen to Yours

This Chinese-inspired chicken stir-fry brings together simple ingredients and delicious savory flavors for an easy dinner any night of the week. Serve it over warm white rice for a comforting meal that's perfect for sharing.