Craving a quick, healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than this chicken stir fry with cabbage—a vibrant, crunchy, and satisfying dish ready in under 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and a savory-sweet sauce that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleasing chicken stir fry with cabbage and why it deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Stir Fry with Cabbage
- Speedy & Simple: From prep to plate, this chicken stir fry with cabbage takes less than 30 minutes.
- Budget-Friendly: Cabbage and chicken are affordable staples that pack a nutritional punch.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Chicken Stir Fry with Cabbage
(Serves 4)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
- 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or Napa)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium)
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
- Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (to taste)
- Optional garnish: sesame seeds, green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken & Veggies
Start by slicing the chicken into thin strips—this ensures quick, even cooking. Chop the cabbage, bell pepper, and onion into uniform pieces so they stir-fry evenly. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger for maximum flavor.
Pro Tip: For extra tender chicken, marinate it in 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tsp cornstarch for 10 minutes before cooking.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the onion, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Toss in the shredded cabbage and cook for another 3–4 minutes, keeping the veggies crisp-tender.
Why cabbage? Cabbage adds a satisfying crunch and absorbs the savory sauce beautifully in this chicken stir fry with cabbage.
4. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the sauce over the veggies and stir to coat.
5. Combine & Thicken
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add the cornstarch slurry and toss everything together for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the ingredients.
6. Serve Your Chicken Stir Fry with Cabbage
Plate the stir fry over steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a pop of color and texture.
Tips for the Best Chicken Stir Fry with Cabbage
- Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Keep it crisp to avoid a soggy texture.
- Boost the Heat: Add sriracha or chili garlic paste for a spicy kick.
- Mix Up the Veggies: Throw in broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition.
Why This Recipe Works
This chicken stir fry with cabbage strikes the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent. The umami-rich sauce clings to every bite, while the cabbage stays refreshingly crisp. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover veggies hiding in your fridge!
Nutritional Benefits
- Chicken: Lean protein to keep you full and energized.
- Cabbage: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Low-Calorie: Skip the rice for a light, keto-friendly meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Thighs add juiciness and work great in this chicken stir fry with cabbage.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Swap soy sauce for tamari and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a stir-fry newbie or a weeknight warrior, this chicken stir fry with cabbage is a guaranteed hit. It’s versatile, family-friendly, and proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. Whip it up tonight and watch it become a repeat favorit
