Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

If you’re looking for a fast, flavorful, and healthy dinner idea, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a winner. Tender chicken strips are stir-fried with crunchy cabbage and a savory-sweet garlic sauce for a dish that’s both satisfying and light. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a quick, wholesome meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
Light & Healthy – Loaded with lean protein and fiber-rich cabbage.
Flavorful Sauce – A simple garlic soy sauce makes it taste restaurant-quality.
One-Pan Meal – Less cleanup, more flavor.
Budget-Friendly – Simple ingredients that are easy to find and affordable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Marinade:
1 lb chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp cornstarch
½ tsp garlic powder

For the Stir-Fry:
2 tbsp vegetable oil (or avocado oil)
3 cups napa cabbage or green cabbage, shredded
1 medium carrot, julienned
½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, minced

For the Stir-Fry Sauce:
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce for a sweeter twist)
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp honey
1 tbsp water
1 tsp cornstarch

Optional Garnish:
Toasted sesame seeds
Chopped green onion
Red chili flakes for a spicy kick

Tools You’ll Need
Large skillet or wok
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowls
Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine sliced chicken with soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and garlic powder.
Mix well and let sit for 10-15 minutes while you prep the vegetables.

Step 2: Prep the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, water, and cornstarch.
Set the sauce aside for later.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until fully cooked and slightly browned.
Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add another 1 tbsp oil.
Sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add cabbage, carrots, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until veggies are crisp-tender.

Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
Pour in the prepared stir-fry sauce and mix well to coat everything evenly.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish
Top with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or red chili flakes if desired.
Serve hot on its own or over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Tips for the Best Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
Slice Chicken Thin – It cooks faster and stays tender.
High Heat Stir-Fry – Use medium-high to high heat for crisp-tender veggies.
Don’t Overcrowd – Cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming.
Add More Veggies – Mushrooms, snow peas, or baby corn make great additions.

Serving Suggestions
Steamed Jasmine Rice – Classic and delicious pairing.
Cauliflower Rice – Low-carb alternative that soaks up the sauce.
Noodles – Serve over rice noodles or soba for a heartier dish.
Asian Slaw – Light and crunchy side that complements the stir-fry perfectly.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Not recommended as cabbage can become mushy when thawed.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other proteins?
   Yes, thinly sliced beef, shrimp, or tofu work great in this stir-fry.
2. What kind of cabbage is best?
   Napa cabbage is more tender, but green cabbage holds up better for stir-frying.
3. Is this dish gluten-free?
   Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster or hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
4. Can I make it spicier?
   Absolutely—add chili garlic sauce, red pepper flakes, or a splash of sriracha.

Final Thoughts
This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick, tasty, and wholesome dish you’ll want to make again and again. With simple ingredients and big flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy on your wallet and your waistline. Perfect for weeknight dinners or healthy meal prep.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your stir-fry creations.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: Chinese

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 25g | Carbohydrates: 10g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 620mg

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