Name: Quick and Delicious Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry for Busy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Breast (Can be substituted with tofu for a vegetarian option.); 4 cups Green Cabbage (Can use bok choy or napa cabbage as substitutes.); 1 medium Yellow Onion (Shallots can be used for a milder taste.); 2 cups Bell Peppers (Any color works, or use zucchini as a substitute.); 1 medium Carrot (Julienned for even cooking, or substitute with snap peas.); 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh is best, but garlic powder can be used.); 1 tablespoon Butter (Swap for oil to keep it dairy-free.); 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as needed.); 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce (A mushroom-based oyster sauce works for vegetarian option.); 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil (Toasted sesame oil gives a deeper flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust to your taste.); 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Modify to meet desired spice level.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Optional for thickening sauce; arrowroot powder is an alternative.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling garlic wafted through the air, instantly reminding me of my favorite local takeout. But tonight, I wanted to create something even better: a Quick and Flavorful Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry. This dish is not just about that nostalgic taste; it offers a healthy, colorful way to elevate your weeknight dinners. With tender chicken and crisp cabbage, it comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for those busy evenings. Plus, this stir-fry is incredibly customizable, letting you swap in whatever fresh veggies you have on hand. Ready to discover how this easy recipe can transform your meals? Let’s dive in!

Why is this Stir-Fry a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for hectic weeknights.

Customizable: Use whatever vegetables you have in your fridge, and swap chicken for tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.

Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and vibrant veggies, it’s a nutritious choice that beats takeout any day.

Satisfying Texture: Enjoy the crunch of cabbage and the tender chicken, all coated in a savory sauce that’s truly addictive.

Family-Friendly: Everyone will love it! Serve it over rice or noodles for a fuss-free meal that pleases both kids and adults.

If you enjoy quick and flavorful dinners, check out these Pesto Chicken Broccoli or Hot Honey Chicken recipes for more inspiration!

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry

Chicken Breast – Provides lean protein; can be substituted with tofu for a vegetarian option.
Green Cabbage – Adds crunch and retains texture when stir-fried; bok choy or napa cabbage can be used as substitutes.
Yellow Onion – Enhances the flavor base; shallots offer a milder taste if preferred.
Bell Peppers – Contribute sweetness and vibrant color; any color works, or zucchini as a tasty substitute.
Carrot – Adds sweetness and bright color; julienned for even cooking, or substitute with snap peas.
Garlic – Boosts aroma and flavor; fresh is best, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
Butter – Adds richness to the dish; swap for oil to keep it dairy-free.

For the Sauce

Soy Sauce – Provides a signature umami flavor; use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free needs.
Oyster Sauce – Adds depth; a mushroom-based oyster sauce works well for a vegetarian option.
Sesame Oil – Enhances aroma; toasted sesame oil gives a deeper flavor.
Black Pepper – Adds a bit of spice; adjust to your taste.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Offers heat; modify to meet your desired spice level.
Cornstarch – Optional for thickening sauce; arrowroot powder can be a great alternative.

Bring the magic of a Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry to your table with these vibrant ingredients! Enjoy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Begin by preparing all your vegetables and chicken for the Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry. Slice the yellow onion, bell peppers, and carrot into thin strips. Chop the green cabbage into bite-sized pieces, then mince the garlic. Finally, dice the chicken breast into even pieces. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process, allowing the stir-fry to come together quickly.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Once sizzling, add the diced chicken and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is no longer pink and has a nice sear. Remove it from the pan and set aside, keeping it warm.

Step 3: Cook Aromatics
In the same skillet, add another teaspoon of butter if needed, and toss in the sliced onion and minced garlic. Stir-fry for 1–2 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn. This aromatic base will add depth to your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry and enhance the overall flavor profile.

Step 4: Add Vegetables
Now, it’s time to add the vibrant vegetables! Toss the chopped cabbage, bell peppers, and carrot into the skillet, stirring continuously for about 5 minutes. Cook until the vegetables are crisp-tender and bright in color. You want them to retain some crunch, adding texture to your dish and keeping the stir-fry fresh and delicious.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken to the pan along with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, stirring thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are well-coated with the savory sauces. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a mouthwatering Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry.

Step 6: Thicken Sauce (optional)
For a slightly thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously for about 1 minute until the sauce has thickened and clings to the chicken and veggies. This step is optional, but it adds a nice gloss and richness to your stir-fry.

Step 7: Serve
Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your hot Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry immediately over a bed of steamed rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired. Dive into this delightful, colorful meal that’s sure to impress your family!

Make Ahead Options

These Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your vegetables (cabbage, bell peppers, onion, and carrot) and dice the chicken up to 24 hours ahead of time, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. To keep the vibrant colors and textures, it’s best to avoid cutting the cabbage too far in advance. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the chicken and aromatics, then add the prepped veggies to stir-fry everything together. This way, you’ll savor the same delicious flavors of the Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Prep Wisely: Gather and chop all your ingredients before starting to cook. This will help you maintain a quick pace, making your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry come together seamlessly.
Control Garlic Cooking: Sauté garlic until it’s fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness. Burnt garlic can ruin the flavor balance of your dish—be mindful!
Veggie Variations: Don’t hesitate to swap in different vegetables based on what you have on hand. Just ensure they are cut to similar sizes for uniform cooking.
Adjust Spice Level: Tailor the heat of the dish by modifying the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or adding fresh chili peppers. Taste as you go to find your perfect level!
Storage Smart: Allow leftovers to cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They can last up to 3 days in the fridge but reheating may soften the veggies slightly.

How to Store and Freeze Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain texture.

Freezer: Freeze in a safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or microwave, keeping veggies crisp.

Reheating: When reheating, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety. You might need to add a splash of water to revive the sauce.

Taste Maintenance: Remember, the flavor will still be delightful post-freezing, but some veggies may become softer in texture after thawing. Enjoy your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry!

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Variations

Feel free to mix things up and make this stir-fry your own with delightful changes!

Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option that’s just as satisfying.
Add a touch of extra soy sauce for deeper flavor—it makes all the difference.
Seasonal Veggies: Play with the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.
Think snap peas or broccoli for an emerald twist; just ensure they’re cut to similar sizes.
Spice It Up: For a spicy kick, throw in some fresh chili peppers or increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
Each bite will send your taste buds dancing with joy!
Nutty Flavor: Add a handful of roasted peanuts or cashews for a delightful crunch and richness.
The combination of textures will take your dish to a whole new level!
Crispy Addition: Top with crispy fried shallots or garlic for an irresistible crunch.
Not only do they add flavor, but they also give your stir-fry an appealing contrast.
Extra Saucy: Love sauce? Double the soy and oyster sauce or add a splash of hoisin for extra flavor.
It’ll be sticky and delicious, perfect for drenching a bowl of rice!
Low-Carb Twist: Swap out rice or noodles for cauliflower rice to keep it light and healthy.
You’ll still enjoy all the flavors, without the extra carbs!

If you’re a fan of easy meals, you might also enjoy whipping up some Popcorn Chicken Snack or savoring the creamy layers of Italian Ground Chicken!

What to Serve with Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

A colorful and vibrant stir-fry deserves delicious companions to create a wholesome meal experience.

Steamed Jasmine Rice:
This fragrant rice absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, making every bite a delightful experience.
Garlic Fried Rice:
Offering an enticing garlic flavor, this dish complements the stir-fry’s freshness and adds satisfying texture.
Crispy Spring Rolls:
The crunchiness of these rolls provides a lovely contrast to the tender chicken and vegetables, elevating your meal.
Sesame Green Beans:
These lightly sautéed green beans add a nutty crunch, highlighting the freshness of your stir-fry.
Cucumber Salad:
With a refreshing, tangy kick, this salad balances the richness of the dish and adds a cooling element.
Chilled Soba Noodles:
Their slightly nutty flavor and unique texture offer a delightful alternative to traditional noodles, perfect for soaking up sauce.
Mango Lassi:
A creamy yogurt drink that brings a sweet and tangy dimension to the meal, perfect for balancing spices.
Chocolate Mousse:
End your meal on a sweet note with this light, airy dessert—the perfect indulgence after a savory stir-fry!

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe FAQs

What type of cabbage should I use for stir-frying?
Absolutely! For this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry, I recommend using green cabbage since it retains its crunch when cooked. However, bok choy or napa cabbage works beautifully too, each bringing its unique texture and flavor profile.

How long can I store leftovers?
Very! Leftovers of your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just ensure it’s cooled down before you store it to keep the veggies from getting too soft and mushy during storage.

Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! To freeze your stir-fry, place it in a freezer-safe container after it has cooled completely. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to revitalize the sauce and keep those veggies crisp!

What should I do if my stir-fry turns out too watery?
If you find your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry has excessive liquid, don’t worry! Simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry. Add this to your stir-fry while it’s still cooking, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens to your liking. This will help absorb extra moisture!

Is this stir-fry suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Very! To make your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry gluten-free, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Moreover, ensure that any other sauces, like oyster sauce, are also gluten-free. It’s a delicious and safe option for everyone!

Can I include other vegetables in this stir-fry?
Definitely! The beauty of stir-fries is their flexibility. Feel free to toss in any additional vegetables you have on hand, like broccoli, snap peas, or even bell pepper—just cut them into similar sizes to maintain even cooking. The more the merrier!