Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is a delicious, quick, and healthy meal that combines tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and a flavorful stir fry sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s packed with protein and vegetables. The combination of savory soy sauce, garlic, and ginger gives the dish an authentic Chinese flavor, while the cabbage adds a fresh, crispy texture. It’s easy to make, low in carbs, and can be enjoyed on its own or served with rice or noodles.

Ingredients

For the Stir Fry:

• 2 chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless, thinly sliced
• 1 small head of cabbage, shredded (or 4 cups pre-shredded cabbage)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken sauce)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Slice the chicken breasts or thighs into thin strips. Set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

   • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and ginger and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Add the Cabbage:

   • Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and stir well to combine. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften but still retains some crunch.

5. Make the Sauce:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or sugar), and sesame oil. If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry and add it to the sauce.

6. Combine Everything:

   • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the cabbage and vegetables. Pour the sauce over everything and stir well to coat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens (if using cornstarch) and everything is heated through.

7. Serve:

   • Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (optional). Serve the stir fry on its own or with steamed rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add More Veggies: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Stir Fry: Add some chili paste or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Chicken Alternatives: You can use ground chicken, turkey, or even beef strips as an alternative to the sliced chicken.
• Low-Carb Version: Serve this stir fry over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

FAQs

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce and check that the rice vinegar is gluten-free, this dish can be gluten-free.

Can I use pre-cut coleslaw mix instead of cabbage?

Yes, pre-cut coleslaw mix is a convenient alternative to shredded cabbage and will save you time on prep.

How do I make the stir fry spicier?

You can add chili paste, red pepper flakes, or a sliced fresh chili to the stir fry sauce to increase the heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken, vegetables, and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook everything fresh when you’re ready to eat.

Conclusion

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick, delicious, and healthy meal that’s full of savory flavors and satisfying textures. The tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and flavorful sauce make it a perfect dinner option that’s both light and filling. Whether you enjoy it with rice or just on its own, this stir fry is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

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