This homemade version of Panda Express’ String Bean Chicken is packed with flavor and comes together in just 30 minutes! Juicy, marinated chicken is stir-fried with crisp-tender green beans and tossed in a rich, umami-packed sauce. It’s the perfect quick and healthy meal that’s even better than takeout!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Better than takeout – Enjoy all the flavors of Panda Express but fresher and with no added preservatives.
- Quick & easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
- Healthier option – Loaded with lean protein and veggies without the heavy oils or excess sodium.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your homemade Panda Express String Bean Chicken:
- Chicken breast or thighs – Tender and juicy protein for the dish.
- Soy sauce – Adds deep umami flavor to the marinade and sauce.
- Oyster sauce – A key ingredient for that signature Panda Express taste.
- Green beans – Crisp and fresh for the perfect bite.
- Onion – Adds a mild sweetness and texture.
- Garlic & ginger – Essential aromatics for an authentic stir-fry.
- Cornstarch – Helps create a silky sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
- Sesame oil – Adds a nutty depth to the dish.
- Sugar – Balances the savory and salty flavors.
- White pepper – A hint of warmth and spice.
- Cooking oil – For stir-frying everything to perfection.
“The full ingredient list with measurements is right below in the recipe card!”
How to Make String Bean Chicken Panda Express Style
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Slice the chicken into thin strips and toss it in soy sauce, cornstarch, and a splash of sesame oil. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, a bit of sugar, white pepper, and cornstarch slurry for that thick, glossy sauce.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken until golden and fully cooked, then remove it from the pan.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add a little more oil and stir-fry the green beans and onions until tender-crisp. Toss in garlic and ginger for extra flavor.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the chicken to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir-fry everything together until the sauce thickens and coats all the ingredients beautifully.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve hot over steamed white rice or fried rice for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use high heat – Stir-frying at high heat keeps everything crisp and flavorful.
- Blanch green beans – For extra tenderness, blanch them for 1 minute before stir-frying.
- Cut chicken evenly – This ensures quick and even cooking.
- Don’t overcook the veggies – They should stay slightly crunchy for the best texture.
How to Serve
This dish pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed white rice – Classic and simple.
- Fried rice – For extra flavor and texture.
- Cauliflower rice – A low-carb option.
- Side of egg rolls or dumplings – To make it a full takeout-style meal!
For a perfect holiday pairing, consider making this delicious Homemade Turkey Gravy alongside your roast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in a pan over medium heat or microwave in 30-second bursts until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, but let them thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the stir-fry.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
You can substitute it with hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a little sugar for a similar depth of flavor.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce and a gluten-free oyster sauce alternative.
Is this dish spicy?
No, but you can add chili flakes or sriracha if you like some heat!
This String Bean Chicken Panda Express Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves quick, easy, and flavorful stir-fries! With its savory sauce, tender chicken, and crisp green beans, it’s a healthier, homemade take on your favorite fast-food classic. Give it a try, and enjoy every bite!
For the perfect takeout-style meal, pair this dish with crispy and creamy Crab Rangoon. You’ll love the combination of flavors!”
String Bean Chicken Panda Express Recipe
Equipment
- Wok or large pan
Ingredients
Marinated Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs sliced into thin strips
- 2 tbsp soy sauce for marinade
- 1 tbsp cornstarch for marinade
- 1 tsp sesame oil for marinade
Sauce
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- 1 tbsp cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water)
Stir-Fry
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- 2 cups green beans trimmed
- 1 cup onion sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp ginger grated
Instructions
- Slice the chicken into thin strips and marinate with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil for 10-15 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, white pepper, and cornstarch slurry to make the sauce.
- Heat oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the marinated chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan.
- In the same pan, add a little more oil and stir-fry green beans and onions until tender-crisp. Add garlic and ginger for extra flavor.
- Return the chicken to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir-fry until everything is coated and the sauce thickens.
- Serve hot over steamed white rice or fried rice. Enjoy!