Place rack in center position of oven and preheat to 350°F.
Bring a large pot of salted water (or chicken broth) to a boil. Add the green beans and simmer for 15 minutes. Drain and transfer to an approximately 2 ½-quart baking dish.
Sprinkle chopped bacon over the green beans in the baking dish.
Melt the butter (in a glass measuring cup in the microwave or in a small saucepan on the stove). Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and pepper until well combined.
Pour over the green beans and bacon in the baking dish and toss until all ingredients are coated.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until tender and heated through. Stir well and serve hot.
