This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick, flavorful meal that brings together tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory aromatics in one satisfying dish. It is light yet filling, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is fast to prepare and cooks in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. The combination of juicy chicken and lightly stir-fried cabbage creates a balance of protein and vegetables in every bite. It is naturally customizable, allowing you to adjust the seasoning or vegetables to your taste. Best of all, it uses simple ingredients that are easy to find and affordable.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
1/2 medium green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 packed cups)
1 medium red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/4 cup water
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced chicken breast and stir-fry for 4 to 5 minutes until fully cooked and lightly golden. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Add the onion and stir-fry for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
5. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Stir in the cabbage and red bell pepper. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and toss everything together.
8. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.
9. Season with black pepper and salt to taste. Remove from heat and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

You can add sliced carrots or snap peas for extra crunch and color. For a spicy version, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce. If you prefer a richer sauce, add 1 teaspoon of sesame oil at the end of cooking. This dish also works well with leftover cooked chicken, reducing the cooking time even further.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. It can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and will result in a slightly juicier texture.

Is cabbage supposed to be crunchy in this recipe?

Yes, the cabbage should be tender but still slightly crisp for the best texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead, but it is best cooked fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

What can I serve with this stir-fry?

It pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or enjoyed on its own as a low-carb option.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended as cabbage can become watery and soft after thawing.

How do I keep the chicken tender?

Slice the chicken thinly and avoid overcooking it. Cooking over medium-high heat helps seal in moisture.

Can I add more sauce?

Yes, you can double the sauce ingredients if you prefer a saucier stir-fry.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it holds up well in the refrigerator for a few days and reheats easily.

Can I reduce the sodium?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and adjust the salt to taste.

What oil works best for stir-frying?

Vegetable oil is ideal, but sunflower or canola oil also work well.

Conclusion

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a simple yet satisfying dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. With its quick cooking time, wholesome ingredients, and flexible variations, it is a recipe you can rely on whenever you need a delicious homemade meal in a hurry.

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