Name: Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips; 1 small Chinese cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, peeled and grated; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tsp cornstarch; 1/4 cup water; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Welcome to your new favorite stir-fry! This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick, delicious, and satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavors. Imagine tender, juicy chicken mixed with crispy cabbage and all tossed together in a savory, slightly tangy sauce. The best part? It’s super easy to whip up, and it’s healthy too! Trust me, this recipe is one you’ll keep coming back to—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend treat.

Why You’ll Love Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious stir-fry:

Chicken Breast: The star of the dish! Tender, juicy chicken breasts will absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce while staying moist and flavorful.
Cabbage: Fresh cabbage adds the perfect crunch and lightness, making this dish feel fresh and satisfying.
Carrots: Thinly sliced carrots bring a touch of sweetness and a burst of color to the stir-fry.
Garlic: Aromatic garlic adds a savory kick to the dish, infusing the stir-fry with rich, delicious flavor.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a spicy warmth and depth of flavor, balancing out the richness of the chicken.
Soy Sauce: This is the base of the stir-fry sauce, giving the dish its signature savory, umami flavor.
Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty richness that makes this stir-fry irresistible.
Rice Vinegar: A splash of rice vinegar adds brightness and balances the flavors.
Honey: A bit of honey adds a subtle sweetness to the sauce, making it perfectly balanced.
Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a burst of freshness and color to finish off the dish.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Pan: Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add a splash of sesame oil. This will give your stir-fry that signature, nutty aroma right from the get-go.
Cook the Chicken: Add your chicken breast to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Sauté the Veggies: In the same pan, add a little more sesame oil if needed. Toss in the garlic, ginger, and carrots. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add in the cabbage and cook until it just starts to wilt—about 3-4 minutes. You want it to stay crisp and fresh, not too soft.
Add the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and a splash of water. Pour this over the veggies, stirring to coat them evenly. Let it simmer for a minute or two to let the sauce thicken slightly.
Combine Everything: Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips and add it back into the pan with the veggies. Toss everything together, letting the sauce coat the chicken and veggies. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
Finishing Touches: Garnish your stir-fry with fresh green onions. You’re ready to serve!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.

Presentation matters too! Serving the dish in a beautifully arranged platter can elevate the dining experience. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra pop.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
A1: Absolutely! You can use shrimp, pork, or even tofu in place of the chicken. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, it’s a great make-ahead recipe. Prepare it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the pan before serving.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This will help retain the texture of the veggies.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Yes, just make sure to use a large enough pan or wok to accommodate the extra ingredients. You may need to cook in batches.

Q7: Can I use another type of cabbage?
A7: Yes! You can use Napa cabbage, bok choy, or even kale as a substitute for regular cabbage.

Q8: How can I add more heat to this dish?
A8: If you like heat, try adding some chili flakes or fresh sliced red chilies to the stir-fry for a spicy kick.

Q9: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A9: Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Make sure all your ingredients are gluten-free!

Q10: Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe?
A10: Yes, just add the pre-cooked chicken in step 4 with the veggies, and heat everything through in the sauce.

Conclusion

There you have it—a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal that’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table! Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with friends and family, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is the kind of dish you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of this easy stir-fry!