Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is the perfect blend of simplicity, nutrition, and bold flavors. This dish features tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and a savory sauce that’s irresistibly satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a meal prep option, this recipe is versatile, quick, and packed with wholesome ingredients.
Whether you’re a stir-fry enthusiast or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish delivers authentic Chinese flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients for Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
For the Stir-Fry:
1 pound chicken breast or thighs (thinly sliced into strips)
3 cups green cabbage (shredded or thinly sliced)
1 medium carrot (julienned or thinly sliced)
1 small onion (sliced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated or finely minced)
2 green onions (chopped, for garnish)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
For the Sauce:
3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for depth of flavor)
1 teaspoon hoisin sauce (adds sweetness)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
How to Make Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Slice the Chicken: Cut the chicken into thin strips for quick cooking. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Chop the Vegetables: Shred the cabbage, julienne the carrots, and slice the onion. Mince the garlic and ginger.
Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and chili flakes. Stir in the cornstarch slurry for thickening.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken strips and stir-fry until fully cooked and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Toss in the garlic, ginger, and onion. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the cabbage and carrots. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the cabbage is slightly softened but still crisp.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the chicken to the pan and pour the sauce over the mixture.
Stir everything together for 1-2 minutes, letting the sauce thicken and coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Over Rice: Serve with steamed jasmine or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
With Noodles: Pair with stir-fried noodles or rice noodles for a heartier meal.
Low-Carb Option: Serve on its own or with cauliflower rice for a lighter, keto-friendly meal.
Tips for the Best Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
Use High Heat: Cooking over high heat ensures the chicken and vegetables cook quickly without becoming soggy.
Don’t Overcook Cabbage: Keep the cabbage slightly crisp to retain its texture and flavor.
Slice Thin: Thin slices of chicken and vegetables help them cook evenly and quickly.
Marinate for Flavor: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a little soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch before cooking.
Add Crunch: Toss in some toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for added texture.
Variations of Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
1. Vegetarian Version
Substitute the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms for a plant-based option.
2. Spicy Stir-Fry
Add fresh chili peppers or extra chili flakes for a spicy kick.
3. Teriyaki Style
Swap the soy sauce mixture with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
4. Add More Veggies
Include broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, or bok choy for a more colorful and nutrient-dense stir-fry.
5. Peanut Sauce Twist
Replace the traditional sauce with a peanut butter-based sauce for a Thai-inspired dish.
Health Benefits of Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
Low in Calories: This dish is light yet filling, making it a great option for weight management.
High in Protein: Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
Rich in Fiber: Cabbage and carrots add fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
Loaded with Antioxidants: Garlic, ginger, and cabbage are packed with antioxidants to boost immunity.
FAQs About Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
1. Can I use other types of cabbage?
Yes! Napa cabbage or purple cabbage works beautifully in this recipe, though they may alter the texture slightly.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked stir-fry without the sauce for up to 1 month. Add the sauce fresh when reheating.
4. What type of chicken is best for stir-frying?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best as they cook quickly and evenly.
5. Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Absolutely! Pre-shredded cabbage is a great time-saver for this recipe.
6. How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
If the sauce doesn’t thicken, mix a bit more cornstarch with water and stir it into the pan while cooking.
Conclusion
Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a simple, healthy, and satisfying meal that can be customized to suit any palate. With its tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and savory sauce, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite for busy weeknights. Give it a try and bring the taste of Chinese cuisine to your kitchen!