Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that you can whip up in just 25 minutes? This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is the answer! It’s packed with tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and a hint of bell pepper, all coated in a savory sauce. Whether you’re in the mood for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, this stir-fry delivers on taste, texture, and nutrition. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping or a speedy weeknight dinner.
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Why You’ll Love This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
Quick, Flavorful, and Healthy!
This stir-fry is the perfect balance of protein, fresh vegetables, and bold flavors. The combination of soy sauce and oyster sauce creates a savory and slightly sweet base, while garlic, ginger, and sesame oil add an aromatic touch. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is ideal for when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Benefits of This Recipe
- High in Protein: Chicken breast provides a lean source of protein.
- Low in Carbs: The cabbage and bell pepper keep the carbs low and add fiber.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this dish with your favorite veggies or protein alternatives.
Ingredients for Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
Here’s what you’ll need to create this quick and easy stir-fry:
- Chicken Breast: 1 pound, thinly sliced (cook it fast and evenly)
- Green Cabbage: 4 cups, shredded (a crunchy and nutritious base)
- Bell Pepper: 1, sliced (adds color and sweetness)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (a must for stir-fries!)
- Fresh Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced (adds depth and warmth)
- Soy Sauce: ¼ cup (the savory base of the sauce)
- Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons (adds a sweet and umami-rich flavor)
- Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon (drizzle for a nutty aroma and taste)
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons (for stir-frying)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Garnish: Chopped green onions and sesame seeds
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or wok
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing spoon or spatula
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
- Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef strips for variety.
- Veggie Variations: Add broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for more crunch and color.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
1. Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast and stir-fry for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and browned. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and ginger and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them—they should just release their aroma.
3. Cook the Vegetables
Add the shredded cabbage and sliced bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp. The cabbage should be wilted but not soggy, and the bell pepper should retain some crunch.
4. Combine the Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring well to combine all the ingredients. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and let the flavors meld.
5. Finish with Sesame Oil
Drizzle the stir-fry with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and give it a final stir to coat everything evenly. The sesame oil adds a wonderful nutty flavor and aroma that ties the dish together.
6. Serve and Garnish
Serve the stir-fry hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture. Enjoy it on its own for a light meal or over rice or noodles for a heartier option!
What to Serve with Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
This stir-fry is delicious on its own, but here are some serving ideas:
- Rice: Steamed jasmine or brown rice is a classic pairing.
- Noodles: Toss with cooked rice noodles or soba noodles for a noodle stir-fry twist.
- Extra Veggies: Serve with steamed broccoli or bok choy for more greens.
Tips for Making the Best Stir-Fry
- Thinly Slice the Chicken: Cutting the chicken into thin slices ensures it cooks quickly and evenly.
- Don’t Overcook the Veggies: Keep the vegetables crisp by cooking them for just a few minutes on high heat.
- Prep Everything Ahead: Stir-frying is a fast process, so having all ingredients prepped and ready makes cooking a breeze.
Storage Instructions
This stir-fry is perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid freezing as the cabbage can become mushy when thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Yes, you can use Napa cabbage, red cabbage, or even bok choy for a different flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
Oyster sauce adds a unique umami flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can use hoisin sauce or even a bit of fish sauce for a similar effect.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! Swap the chicken for tofu and use mushroom sauce or a vegetarian oyster sauce alternative to keep the dish plant-based.
Conclusion
This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy a balanced meal packed with protein and veggies. It’s a versatile recipe that’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, making it a fantastic addition to your weekly meal rotation. Give it a try, and let me know what you think—share your creations on Pinterest and tag me for a chance to be featured!
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Looking for more quick stir-fry recipes? Check out my Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry, Spicy Shrimp Stir-Fry, and Vegetable Lo Mein for more flavorful, easy-to-make dishes. Enjoy your cooking adventures! 🍜🥢🍽️
