Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Light, savory, and loaded with fresh vegetables, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick and healthy dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender strips of chicken breast are tossed with crisp cabbage and aromatic garlic, then coated in a savory-sweet sauce that ties it all together. It’s a one-pan meal that’s big on flavor and low on fuss.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish.
Healthy & Balanced – Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich veggies.
One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
Customizable – Add other veggies or switch up the protein.
Authentic Flavor – Classic Chinese-style sauce with simple pantry staples.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
• 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• ½ tsp sugar
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tsp cornstarch

Tools You’ll Need

• Large wok or skillet
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Spatula or tongs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, combine sliced chicken with 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp cornstarch.
2. Mix well and set aside for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the vegetables and sauce.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, water, and cornstarch.
4. Set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken
5. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned and cooked through.
7. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
8. Add remaining 1 tbsp oil to the same pan.
9. Sauté garlic, ginger, and white parts of green onions for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
10. Add cabbage and carrots, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 5: Combine & Finish
11. Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
12. Pour in the prepared sauce and toss everything together until evenly coated.
13. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.

Step 6: Serve
14. Remove from heat and garnish with green onion tops.
15. Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles.

Tips for the Best Stir-Fry
Slice Ingredients Evenly – Ensures everything cooks at the same rate.
High Heat is Key – Helps sear the chicken and keeps veggies crisp.
Don’t Overcrowd – Cook in batches if needed for better results.
Prep Ahead – Have all ingredients ready before cooking for a smooth process.

Serving Suggestions
Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Add a side of dumplings or egg rolls for a fuller spread.
Pair with hot tea or a chilled cucumber salad.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well and add more flavor.
2. What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
   Try mushroom sauce or an extra spoon of hoisin for a vegetarian-friendly swap.
3. Can I make this dish spicy?
   Add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili garlic sauce for heat.
4. Is this gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce to make it gluten-free.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! Bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms make great additions.

Final Thoughts

This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is everything you need in a quick and healthy dinner. Packed with crisp vegetables, lean protein, and bold Asian flavors, it’s the perfect go-to recipe when time is tight but taste still matters. Whip it up in under 30 minutes and enjoy a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Let me know how yours turns out—don’t forget to share your photos and leave a review!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Chinese

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 270 | Protein: 27g | Carbohydrates: 15g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 540mg

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