Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

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Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with crunchy cabbage and a mix of vegetables, all stir-fried in a savory sauce. The cabbage wilts down just slightly, maintaining its crisp texture, while the chicken absorbs all the flavors of the sauce, typically made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil. It’s a simple dish that’s light yet satisfying, and it’s perfect for a weeknight meal.

The first time I made Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry, I was looking for something light but packed with flavor, and this dish turned out to be a great choice. The chicken was tender and juicy, and the cabbage added just the right amount of crunch. What I love most about this dish is how versatile it is—you can throw in whatever veggies you have on hand, like bell peppers or carrots, and it’s quick enough to make on a busy evening. Whether you’re serving it with rice or on its own, Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is an easy and delicious go-to meal!

Perfect for:

  • Quick weeknight dinners
  • Healthy meal prep
  • Low-carb diets
  • A balanced, protein-packed meal
  • Fans of Asian-inspired flavors

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:

  • Quick to Make: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
  • Healthy and Nutritious: High in protein and fiber while being low in carbs and calories.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
  • Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
  • One-Pan Dish: Minimal cleanup, making dinner stress-free.
  • Burst of Flavor: The savory sauce with garlic and ginger adds a bold punch.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Stays fresh in the fridge for days, reheats beautifully.
  • Kid-Friendly: Mild flavors make it appealing to all ages.
  • Versatile Side Options: Pair with rice, noodles, or enjoy on its own.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos to make it gluten-free.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 28g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

For the Stir Fry:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
  • 4 cups green cabbage, thinly shredded
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
  • 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), thinly sliced
  • 3 green onions, chopped (optional garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil (e.g., vegetable or sesame oil)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced

For the Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for richer flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Cabbage: Provides a crunchy texture and is low in calories.
  • Chicken: A lean protein that keeps the dish hearty and satisfying.
  • Soy Sauce: The base of the savory sauce, adding depth to the dish.
  • Sesame Oil: Adds a subtle nutty aroma to the stir fry.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Ensure vibrant colors and crisp textures.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Ingredients:

  1. Slice Chicken: Thinly slice the chicken breast or thighs for even cooking.
  2. Shred and Slice Veggies: Prepare the cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers as directed.
  3. Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, and cornstarch.

Cook the Stir Fry:

  1. Heat Oil: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil.
  2. Cook Chicken: Add the sliced chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining oil, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add Vegetables: Toss in the cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  5. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in the sauce. Toss everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Plate: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve hot.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry:

  • Over Steamed Rice: Classic pairing for a complete meal.
  • With Noodles: Serve with stir-fried or boiled noodles for a comforting twist.
  • On Its Own: A low-carb, high-protein meal perfect for keto diets.
  • In Lettuce Wraps: Use as a filling for a fun, handheld meal.
  • With Quinoa: Add an extra protein boost with cooked quinoa.
  • As a Meal Prep Bowl: Divide into containers with brown rice or salad greens.
  • With Cauliflower Rice: A great low-carb alternative to traditional rice.
  • As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled salmon or steak for a hearty dinner.
  • With Spring Rolls: Pair with fresh or fried spring rolls for an Asian-inspired meal.
  • As a Wrap Filling: Use in tortillas for a fusion-style lunch wrap.

Additional Tips

  • Prep Everything First: Chop all your veggies and slice the chicken before you start cooking. Stir fry cooks quickly, so being prepared is key.
  • Cut Evenly: Slice the chicken and vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
  • Use High Heat: Stir fry works best over high heat to keep everything crisp and cook it quickly without overcooking.
  • Dry Your Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel before cooking to achieve a nice sear.
  • Marinate for Flavor: Marinate the chicken in soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a dash of sesame oil for 15–30 minutes before cooking.
  • Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can make your stir fry soggy.
  • Add Veggies in Stages: Start with harder vegetables like carrots and add softer ones like cabbage later to prevent overcooking.
  • Boost the Sauce: Add a splash of rice vinegar, oyster sauce, or a sprinkle of chili flakes to elevate the flavor.
  • Thicken the Sauce: Mix cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry, then stir it into the pan to thicken the sauce.
  • Finish with Garnishes: Top with sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, or sliced green onions for added texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or Sriracha for heat.
  • Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with tofu or mushrooms.
  • Peanut Sauce Twist: Replace the soy sauce mixture with a creamy peanut sauce.
  • Seafood Option: Use shrimp or scallops instead of chicken.
  • Low-Sodium: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce for a heart-healthy option.
  • Extra Crunch: Add water chestnuts or chopped peanuts for texture.
  • More Greens: Toss in broccoli, snap peas, or spinach for extra nutrients.
  • Sweet and Sour: Add pineapple chunks and adjust the sauce with more vinegar and sugar.
  • Ginger-Lime Twist: Add fresh lime juice and extra ginger for a zesty flavor.
  • Asian Fusion: Add a drizzle of hoisin sauce or fish sauce for a unique twist.

Special Equipment

  • Wok or Large Skillet: For even cooking and high heat.
  • Sharp Knife: To slice chicken and vegetables uniformly.
  • Mixing Bowls: For the sauce and ingredient prep.
  • Tongs or Spatula: To toss ingredients while stir-frying.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
    Yes, red cabbage works well and adds vibrant color to the dish.
  2. How long can I store leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  3. Can I freeze this stir fry?
    While the chicken freezes well, the cabbage may lose its texture. Freeze for up to 2 months if needed.
  4. How can I make this gluten-free?
    Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and ensure the oyster sauce is gluten-free.
  5. What’s the best oil for stir fry?
    Use high-smoke point oils like vegetable, canola, or avocado oil.
  6. Can I skip the cornstarch in the sauce?
    Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Adjust to your preference.
  7. Is this recipe spicy?
    No, it’s mild, but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce for heat.
  8. Can I add more vegetables?
    Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorites like zucchini or bok choy.
  9. Do I need a wok?
    No, a large skillet works perfectly for this recipe.
  10. What can I use as a chicken substitute?
    Try tofu, tempeh, shrimp, or even beef slices for variety.

Conclusion

Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is a healthy, vibrant dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with crisp, slightly sweet cabbage and other colorful vegetables, all tossed in a savory stir-fry sauce. The chicken is cooked until golden and juicy, and the cabbage adds a satisfying crunch and mild flavor. The stir-fry sauce is often made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a dash of sesame oil, creating a deliciously umami flavor profile.

This dish is super versatile—you can add other veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or onions, or even top it off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or green onions for extra flavor and texture. It’s a quick, one-pan meal that’s packed with nutrients and flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

I can’t wait to see how your Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!