When you’re in the mood for a quick and nutritious dinner that’s packed with flavor, Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender chicken with crunchy cabbage, all tossed in a savory stir-fry sauce that’s both light and delicious. The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and ginger brings a classic Chinese takeout flavor, while the simplicity of the ingredients makes it easy to whip up in just minutes. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb option or simply want to enjoy a wholesome, tasty meal, this stir-fry is sure to satisfy
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Begin by slicing the chicken breasts into thin, bite-sized pieces. To make the chicken easier to slice, you can partially freeze it for about 20 minutes before cutting. This will allow you to get thin, even slices. Once the chicken is prepped, season it with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and cornstarch slurry (cornstarch dissolved in water). This sauce will coat the chicken and cabbage with a savory, slightly thick glaze, bringing all the flavors together.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken in a single layer. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil along with the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds to release the aromatic flavors, being careful not to burn them. Next, add the shredded cabbage and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until it starts to soften but still has some crunch. The cabbage should be tender-crisp, adding texture to the dish.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over the chicken and cabbage, and toss everything together to ensure the sauce evenly coats the ingredients. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove the stir-fry from the heat and drizzle with sesame oil for a nutty finish. Serve the stir-fry hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. You can enjoy this dish on its own as a low-carb meal or serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a more filling option
Bonus Tip:
For an extra boost of flavor, you can add a splash of rice vinegar or a dash of chili flakes to the stir-fry sauce, giving it a tangy or spicy kick. Additionally, you can customize the dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms. These vegetables will not only add color but also increase the nutritional value of the meal. If you want more protein, you can toss in some shrimp or tofu alongside the chicken.
To save time, you can prep the chicken and cabbage in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. This will make the cooking process even faster and more convenient on busy nights.
Conclusion:
Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a fantastic option when you’re craving a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and savory sauce creates a satisfying dish that’s both light and delicious. The best part is that it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.
This stir-fry is highly versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re sticking to a low-carb diet or simply want a nutrient-packed meal, this recipe delivers all the essential flavors of a classic stir-fry without any fuss. Once you try this dish, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!