Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

If you’re craving a fresh, flavorful, and quick-to-make dish, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is your new go-to. It’s the kind of dish that’ll fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, and when you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked! The crispy cabbage pairs perfectly with tender chicken, and the stir-fry sauce ties everything together in a way that’s just right. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite and might even end up in your weekly rotation.

Why You’ll Love Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

This recipe isn’t just about getting dinner on the table—it’s about savoring each bite and enjoying a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Here’s why you’re going to love it:

• Versatile: This stir-fry works for any occasion—whether you’re rushing through a busy weeknight or planning a fun dinner with friends, it’s quick, easy, and satisfying.
• Budget-Friendly: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen. It’s a great recipe that doesn’t break the bank but still delivers big on flavor.
• Quick & Easy: The prep is simple, and the stir-fry comes together in less than 30 minutes. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to pull this off—it’s perfect for anyone!
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil makes for a stir-fry that’s bursting with flavor, and the cabbage adds a satisfying crunch.
• Healthy: Lean chicken and fresh veggies make this dish both light and wholesome, but the rich flavors will leave you feeling fully satisfied.

Ingredients

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

Chicken Breast: The lean protein that forms the base of this dish. It’s tender, juicy, and soaks up all the delicious stir-fry sauce.

Cabbage: The perfect veggie for this stir-fry! Crisp and fresh, cabbage adds a satisfying crunch and a subtle sweetness when cooked.

Garlic: Aromatic and savory, garlic is essential in creating the bold base flavors that make this dish irresistible.

Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zesty, peppery bite that brightens up the whole stir-fry.

Soy Sauce: The saltiness of soy sauce enhances the overall depth of flavor and ties the dish together beautifully.

Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way! This oil adds a nutty richness to the stir-fry that makes it truly special.

Green Onions: A burst of freshness and color to garnish the dish and add that extra layer of flavor.

Carrots: They add a pop of color and a touch of natural sweetness that balances out the savory flavors.

Sesame Seeds: Optional, but these add a fun crunch and nutty flavor to garnish the stir-fry.

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

Instructions

Let’s dive into how to bring this tasty stir-fry to life:

1. Prep Your Ingredients
Start by chopping the chicken breast into thin strips and shredding the cabbage. Thinly slice the carrots, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Having everything prepped and ready to go will make the stir-frying process quick and seamless.

2. Heat the Pan
In a large wok or skillet, heat a tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil gets nice and hot—it’ll give your stir-fry that signature sizzle.

3. Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken strips to the pan in a single layer. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re fully cooked through and lightly browned. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Veggies
In the same pan, add a bit more sesame oil if needed. Toss in the garlic, ginger, and carrots, and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the cabbage and cook for another 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften but still has a bit of crunch.

5. Add the Sauce
Return the chicken to the pan, and pour in the soy sauce. Stir everything together to ensure the chicken and veggies are coated in that delicious sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Garnish and Serve
Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the satisfying crunch and bold flavors!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 280

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 22-25 minutes

How to Serve Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

This stir-fry is already a complete meal, but here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

• Rice: Serve the stir-fry over a bed of steamed white or brown rice to soak up all the savory sauce.
• Noodles: You can even serve it over noodles for a fun twist on a classic stir-fry.
• Fresh Salad: Pair it with a light, refreshing cucumber salad or a simple Asian-inspired salad for a balanced meal.
• Egg Rolls: Serve with some crispy egg rolls on the side for that perfect Chinese takeout vibe.

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: Chop the veggies and chicken the night before to save time when you’re ready to cook.
• Use a Non-Stick Pan: This makes stir-frying easier and helps prevent the ingredients from sticking to the pan.
• Adjust the Spice: If you like things a little spicier, throw in some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
• Leftovers: This stir-fry makes fantastic leftovers! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for more texture and flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
A1: Fresh chicken is best for this recipe, but if you only have frozen chicken, just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can make the stir-fry and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in a pan when you’re ready to eat.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q4: Can I use a different vegetable?
A4: Absolutely! You can swap the cabbage for broccoli, bok choy, or even spinach—just be sure to adjust the cooking time for different veggies.

Q5: Can I use a different type of oil?
A5: While sesame oil adds a wonderful flavor, you can substitute it with vegetable or canola oil if needed. It’ll still taste delicious!

Q6: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A6: Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken with tofu or tempeh.

Q7: Can I add more sauce?
A7: If you prefer a saucier stir-fry, feel free to add a bit more soy sauce or even some oyster sauce for extra richness.

Q8: How can I make this dish spicier?
A8: Add some sliced fresh chilies or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick!

Q9: Can I use pre-cut cabbage?
A9: Absolutely! Pre-cut cabbage will save you some time. Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid extra moisture in the stir-fry.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes, you can easily double the ingredients if you need to serve a larger crowd. Just be sure to use a bigger pan or wok to cook everything evenly.

Conclusion

There you have it—your new favorite stir-fry recipe! The Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor that’ll keep you coming back for more. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests, and it’s perfect for those nights when you need something both comforting and healthy. So grab your ingredients, heat up that pan, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade meal that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Chinese restaurant!

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