Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

If you’re craving a quick, healthy, and absolutely delicious homemade meal, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is your go-to recipe. Combining tender chicken with crisp cabbage and savory flavors, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want a delightful taste of Chinese cooking without the fuss. Packed with fresh veggies, simple pantry staples, and a balance of sweet and salty notes, this stir-fry brings a restaurant-quality dish right to your kitchen in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for quick dinners anytime.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with lean protein and nutrient-rich cabbage for a wholesome meal.
• Flavorful Comfort: Savory soy sauce and aromatic garlic create authentic Chinese flavors you’ll adore.
• Minimal Prep: Uses simple ingredients mostly found in your pantry or fridge.
• Family-Friendly: Mild and tasty, kids and adults alike will enjoy every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients that blend beautifully to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each element is key in building the perfect balance between tender, crunchy, and savory.

• Chicken breast or thighs: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and juicy results.
• Cabbage: Fresh green cabbage provides a delightful crunch and freshness.
• Garlic and ginger: Essential aromatics that enhance the dish’s depth and warmth.
• Soy sauce: Adds salty umami richness and color.
• Oyster sauce: A touch of sweetness and complexity that elevates the flavor.
• Sesame oil: Brings a nutty fragrance perfect for finishing the stir-fry.
• Vegetable oil: For high-heat cooking without overpowering taste.
• Optional chili flakes: For those who like a gentle kick of heat.

Variations for Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

This dish is wonderfully flexible—feel free to tweak it based on what you have or dietary preferences. Whether you want it spicier, lighter, or add more veggies, it’s easy to adapt and make your own.

• Add extra veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas add color and crunch.
• Use tofu instead of chicken: Perfect for a vegetarian twist without sacrificing protein.
• Make it spicy: Include fresh chilies or a drizzle of chili oil for heat lovers.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce.
• Nutty crunch: Toss in some toasted peanuts or cashews at the end for texture.

How to Make Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by thinly slicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chopping the cabbage into roughly 1-inch strips. Mince the garlic and ginger finely to release maximum flavor.

Step 2: Heat the Pan and Cook Chicken

Warm your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Once hot, stir-fry the chicken pieces until they are golden and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Ginger

In the same pan, add a touch more oil if needed. Toss in the garlic and ginger and stir-fry quickly until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, being careful not to burn them.

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage

Add the cabbage strips and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly but still hold some crunch. This keeps the dish fresh and satisfying.

Step 5: Combine and Season

Return the chicken to the pan, pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and if you like, a sprinkle of chili flakes. Stir everything together thoroughly, allowing the sauce to coat the ingredients evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 6: Finish with Sesame Oil

Turn off the heat and drizzle sesame oil over the stir-fry. Give it one final toss to add that irresistible nutty aroma.

Pro Tips for Making Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

• Use a very hot pan: This helps sear the chicken and veggies quickly, locking in juices and crunch.
• Cut chicken thinly: Ensures fast cooking and tender bites every time.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed to get a perfect stir-fry texture.
• Prep all ingredients first: Stir-frying moves fast, so have everything ready to go before heating the pan.
• Fresh cabbage is key: Use crisp, fresh cabbage to avoid sogginess and maintain texture.

How to Serve Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh chopped scallions or sesame seeds on top before serving. A wedge of lime or a few fresh chili slices can add freshness and a pop of color.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or even noodles for a hearty breakfast or dinner. Simple sides like sautéed bok choy or steamed dumplings complement the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the stir-fry inside lettuce cups for a refreshing handheld option. You can also plate it over a bed of fluffy quinoa to boost fiber and nutrition.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days and is perfect for next-day lunches.

Freezing

This stir-fry freezes well. Cool completely, place in freezer-safe bags or containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor, perfect for a richer taste in your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, swap soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, and ensure oyster sauce is gluten-free or use a suitable alternative.

How spicy is this dish?

The base recipe is mild, but you can easily adjust the heat level by adding chili flakes or fresh chilies according to your preference.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms to add variety and nutrition.

What can I serve this with?

It’s great served with steamed rice, noodles, or even as a filling for wraps or lettuce cups for a low-carb option.

Final Thoughts

This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a wonderful recipe to keep in your meal rotation. It’s simple, flavorful, and nourishing—all the things you want in a homemade dinner. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this easy dish full of fresh ingredients and bold Asian flavors!

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