Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe: Quick & Healthy
Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that can be whipped up in less than 30 minutes? This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is the perfect answer! With tender chicken, crispy cabbage, and a savory sauce, this dish brings the classic stir-fry flavors into your home without the need for a takeout menu. It's a great weeknight dinner option that satisfies both your taste buds and nutritional needs.
This stir-fry recipe features chicken breast, a lean protein that pairs beautifully with the crunchiness of cabbage. The dish is cooked with a simple, yet delicious, sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sesame oil, creating a savory and aromatic experience in every bite. Cabbage, a low-calorie and nutrient-packed vegetable, adds both texture and health benefits, making this stir fry a great choice for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.
The recipe is incredibly versatile too—you can easily add extra veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or onions to suit your taste. Plus, this dish is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge and can be reheated for a quick lunch or dinner later in the week. Ready to dive into a tasty and wholesome stir fry? Let’s get started!
Equipment
- Wok or Large Skillet – A wok or large skillet is ideal for stir-frying the chicken, cabbage, and other ingredients quickly and evenly at high heat.
- Knife and Cutting Board – Essential for slicing the chicken, chopping the cabbage, and prepping the garlic and ginger.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups – To accurately measure the soy sauce, sesame oil, and other ingredients for the stir-fry sauce.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring and tossing the ingredients in the wok, ensuring they cook evenly without sticking.
- Small Mixing Bowl – To mix the stir-fry sauce ingredients together before adding them to the pan.
- Tongs or Tongs-like Utensils – Useful for flipping and stirring the chicken and vegetables during cooking without breaking them apart.
- Grater or Zester (optional) – If you want to finely grate ginger for a smoother texture in your stir-fry sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts thinly sliced
- 1 small head of cabbage shredded
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1- inch piece of ginger minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds optional, for garnish
- 2 green onions chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the chicken breasts thinly against the grain. Shred the cabbage and mince the garlic and ginger.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic and Ginger: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and ginger and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Stir-Fry the Cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the pan and stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add the Sauce: While the cabbage is cooking, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and oyster sauce (if using). Pour the sauce over the cabbage and stir to coat evenly.
- Combine Chicken and Veggies: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss everything together to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately as is, or with a side of rice or noodles.
Notes
To make this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry even more delicious, marinate the chicken in a bit of soy sauce and ginger for extra flavor. For a deeper taste, add a splash of sesame oil and a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for some heat. You can also throw in extra veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added color and crunch. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions for an extra burst of flavor and texture!