If you’re looking for a fast, healthy, and utterly delicious meal, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is just the ticket. Packed with tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and a savory sauce, this recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles.
Ideal for busy weeknights, this stir-fry delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The sauce is a perfect blend of soy, ginger, and garlic, adding depth and richness to every bite. The cabbage remains crisp yet tender, providing a fresh, wholesome contrast to the juicy chicken.
This dish is also incredibly versatile. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your tastes. Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful recipe!
2. Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced thinly
- 4 cups cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- 2 tsp ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
3. Directions
Preparing the Ingredients:
- Thinly slice the chicken breast and vegetables. Prepare the sauce by mixing soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch slurry in a bowl.
Cooking the Stir-Fry:
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp vegetable oil.
- Add the chicken slices and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Stir-fry the garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Adding the Vegetables:
- Add the cabbage, carrot, and bell pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Combining Everything:
- Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the sauce mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
4. How to Prepare
Serve the stir-fry hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor.
5. Preparation Time
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 10 minutes
- Total: 20 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe serves 4 people as a main dish.
7. FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the dish.
2. What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
Use hoisin sauce or a combination of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar for a similar flavor.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with tofu or mushrooms and use a vegetarian oyster sauce.
4. What other vegetables can I add?
Broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy are excellent additions to this stir-fry.
5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
8. Conclusion
This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a delightful combination of simplicity and flavor. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce, it’s a dish that never fails to please. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a family, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy evenings.
Serve it with rice, noodles, or even on its own for a low-carb option. Plus, it’s easily customizable, allowing you to experiment with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level. Healthy, quick, and bursting with flavor, this stir-fry is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Enjoy!