Homemade dog treats are more than a fun kitchen project they’re a thoughtful way to nourish your pup with simple, wholesome ingredients you choose yourself. When you prepare treats at home, you’re ensuring every bite your dog enjoys is fresh, nutritious, and crafted with love. One of the most reliable favorites in my kitchen is this recipe for Green Bean & Chicken Crunchies. These crisp, savory bites pair lean chicken with fiber rich green beans, creating a treat that’s both flavorful and wonderfully nourishing.
This guide walks you step-by-step through the entire process, offering helpful tips, ideas for customizing the recipe, and a closer look at why these ingredients work so well for dogs. Let’s dive in and get those tails wagging!
Why Make Your Own Dog Treats?
Creating treats at home is rewarding in so many ways. You’re not just tossing ingredients together you’re actively supporting your dog’s health with intentional choices.
Benefits of Homemade Treats
- Total Ingredient Control: No fillers, preservatives, or mystery additives just whole, dog friendly ingredients.
- Superior Freshness: Homemade treats are prepared fresh and enjoyed at their peak.
- Customizable for Any Pup: Easily tailor flavors and ingredients to match your dog’s dietary needs or preferences.
- A Fun Bonding Ritual: Preparing treats becomes a moment of connection between you and your dog.
- Budget Friendly: Many homemade recipes cost less than premium store bought options.
Why Green Beans & Chicken?
These two simple ingredients pack a surprising amount of nutrition:
- Green Beans: Low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K. They support digestion, add crunch, and bring a natural source of nutrients to the mix.
- Chicken: A lean protein that helps maintain strong muscles. Most dogs enjoy the mild flavor, and it’s easy to digest.
Added Bonus: Crunchy Texture
Crunchy treats help gently scrape away plaque as your dog chews, supporting better dental health compared to soft snacks that can cling to teeth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (boneless & skinless)
- 1 cup finely chopped green beans (briefly steamed or blanched)
- 1 ½ cups oat flour (homemade or store bought)
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup low sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or olive oil
Optional Boosters:
- Turmeric (anti inflammatory support)
- Ground flaxseed (extra omega-3 fatty acids)
Ingredient Swap Ideas:
Use almond or coconut flour for a grain-free version, or try turkey, beef, or salmon instead of chicken if your dog prefers different proteins.
How to Make Green Bean & Chicken Crunchies
1. Prep the Ingredients
Cook the chicken until fully done, then shred it finely. Chop and lightly steam or blanch the green beans they should stay vibrant and slightly crisp. This makes the treats more digestible while holding onto valuable nutrients.
Tip: Green beans are great for digestion and add natural crunch to any dog treat recipe.
2. Mix the Dough
Combine shredded chicken, chopped green beans, and oat flour in a large bowl. Add eggs, broth, and oil, then mix until everything forms a soft, slightly sticky dough.
- Too dry? Add a splash of broth.
- Too wet? Sprinkle in more oat flour.
3. Shape the Treats
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough to about ¼ inch thick, then cut it into shapes bones, bars, hearts, whatever you like. Place the pieces on a parchment lined baking sheet.
Creative idea: Make mini bites for training rewards or larger pieces for a satisfying snack.
4. Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the treats turn golden. For an extra crunchy finish, reduce the temperature to 300°F and bake another 10–15 minutes to dry them out more thoroughly.
Your kitchen will smell delicious, and your dog will probably hover nearby waiting for a taste.
5. Cool & Store
Let the treats cool completely so they crisp up properly.
Storage:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Freeze for several months; thaw before serving.
Why Dogs Love These Crunchies
The combination of savory chicken and crisp green beans is irresistible to most pups. The crunchy texture helps naturally clean the teeth, while the protein and fiber work together to support a healthy body and happy digestion.
Customize to Fit Your Dog’s Needs
Homemade treats offer endless flexibility:
- Add Veggies: Carrots, pumpkin, or sweet potato blend beautifully.
- Try New Proteins: Swap in turkey, beef, or fish.
- Healthy Add Ins: Chia seeds, flaxseed, or a dab of natural, xylitol free peanut butter add flavor and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
These treats are perfect for training, praising good behavior, or simply treating your dog to something special. They also make wonderful handmade gifts for fellow pet parents just package them in a sweet jar or bag with a ribbon.
FAQ
Can I use canned green beans?
Fresh or frozen are better, but canned can work if thoroughly rinsed and free of added salt.
Can these be made grain free?
Yes use coconut or almond flour instead of oat flour. You may need to adjust the moisture.
How can I tell if my dog likes green beans?
Offer a small piece raw or steamed as a test. Most pups enjoy the crunch!
The Joy of Homemade Treats
Making treats at home is a simple act of love that brings you closer to your furry friend. Watching your dog enjoy something you made for them tail wagging, eyes bright, crunching away is one of those small, heartwarming moments that makes it all worthwhile.
Keep exploring, keep baking, and keep celebrating the bond you share with your dog. They’ll taste the love in every bite.
Crunchy Chicken & Green Bean Dog Treat Recipe
Homemade dog treats are more than a fun kitchen project they’re a thoughtful way to nourish your pup with simple, wholesome ingredients you choose yourself. When you prepare treats at home, you’re ensuring every bite your dog enjoys is fresh, nutritious, and crafted with love. One of the most reliable favorites in my kitchen is this recipe for Green Bean & Chicken Crunchies. These crisp, savory bites pair lean chicken with fiber rich green beans, creating a treat that’s both flavorful and wonderfully nourishing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (boneless & skinless)
- 1 cup finely chopped green beans (briefly steamed or blanched)
- 1 ½ cups oat flour (homemade or store bought)
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup low sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or olive oil
- Optional Boosters:
- Turmeric (anti inflammatory support)
- Ground flaxseed (extra omega-3 fatty acids)
Instructions
1. Prep the Ingredients
Cook the chicken until fully done, then shred it finely. Chop and lightly steam or blanch the green beans they should stay vibrant and slightly crisp. This makes the treats more digestible while holding onto valuable nutrients.
Tip: Green beans are great for digestion and add natural crunch to any dog treat recipe.
2. Mix the Dough
Combine shredded chicken, chopped green beans, and oat flour in a large bowl. Add eggs, broth, and oil, then mix until everything forms a soft, slightly sticky dough.
- Too dry? Add a splash of broth.
- Too wet? Sprinkle in more oat flour.
3. Shape the Treats
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough to about ¼ inch thick, then cut it into shapes bones, bars, hearts, whatever you like. Place the pieces on a parchment lined baking sheet.
Creative idea: Make mini bites for training rewards or larger pieces for a satisfying snack.
4. Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the treats turn golden. For an extra crunchy finish, reduce the temperature to 300°F and bake another 10–15 minutes to dry them out more thoroughly.
Your kitchen will smell delicious, and your dog will probably hover nearby waiting for a taste.
5. Cool & Store
Let the treats cool completely so they crisp up properly.
Notes
Keep your finished treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks. For longer storage, simply freeze them and thaw a portion whenever your pup is ready for a snack. If your dough isn’t quite the right texture while mixing, adjust as needed add a splash of chicken broth if it feels too dry, or sprinkle in a bit more flour if it becomes too wet or sticky.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 30 Serving Size: 1 treatAmount Per Serving: Calories: 35Total Fat: 1.5gSaturated Fat: 0.5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 10mgCarbohydrates: 2gFiber: 0.5gSugar: 0gProtein: 4g