Name: Savory Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir for Quick Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast (Substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option); 4 cups Green Cabbage (Napa cabbage can be used as an alternative); 1 cup Bell Pepper (Red or yellow for extra sweetness); 1 medium Carrot (Grated for fun texture); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced, fresh is best); 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (Minced, ground ginger can substitute); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Use tamari for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce (Optional); 2 tablespoons Hoisin Sauce (Can substitute with more soy sauce and sugar); 2 teaspoons Sesame Oil (Olive or vegetable oil can substitute); 2 tablespoons Cooking Oil (Vegetable or Canola oil); Salt and Pepper (To taste); Sesame Seeds (Optional garnish); 2 tablespoons Green Onions (Chopped, for garnish)

As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, my kitchen fills with the tempting aroma of sautéing ginger and garlic. The craving for a homemade meal strikes, and what better way to indulge than with this vibrant Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry? This recipe not only comes together in a flash, making it perfect for those busy weeknights, but it also packs a nutritious punch. Tender chicken mingles with crisp cabbage and colorful veggies, all smothered in a mouthwatering sauce that brings everything to life. The best part? You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, ensuring you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your evening. Curious about how to master this delightful dish? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Stir-Fry a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Nutritious Option: Packed with lean protein and vibrant veggies, it’s a guilt-free meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to switch out the chicken for tofu or shrimp, and tailor the veggies to whatever you have on hand; it’s all about flexibility!

Crowd-Pleaser: With its savory sauce and colorful presentation, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends, even the toughest critics.

Savory Sauce: The combination of soy, hoisin, and sesame oil creates a rich, mouthwatering glaze that elevates the simple ingredients to new heights.

For more quick dinner ideas, check out my delicious Chicken Enchiladas Comfort and Cowboy Butter Chicken.

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast – The primary protein source; you can easily substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Green Cabbage – Offers crunch and fiber; Napa cabbage can be a flavorful alternative.
• Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and color; any variety works, but consider red or yellow for extra sweetness.
• Carrot – Brings natural sweetness and vibrant color; grating it instead of julienning provides a fun textural twist.
• Garlic – Infuses aromatic depth; fresh is best, but granulated garlic can work in a hurry.
• Fresh Ginger – Delivers a warm, spicy note; ground ginger is an acceptable substitute—just use less (1/4 tsp).
• Soy Sauce – Provides rich umami flavor; opt for tamari if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
• Oyster Sauce (optional) – Adds a wonderful complexity; skip it for vegetarian or vegan purposes.
• Hoisin Sauce – Imparts a sweet richness; feel free to swap with more soy sauce and a sprinkle of sugar if needed.
• Sesame Oil – Sends nutty notes throughout the dish; olive or vegetable oil can step in if necessary.
• Cooking Oil (Vegetable or Canola) – Essential for sautéing; any high smoke point oil will do.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste; these are your go-to essentials for seasoning.
• Sesame Seeds – An optional garnish that adds a lovely nutty finish.
• Green Onions – Fresh garnish to add brightness; chives make a good substitute if preferred.

Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s get those flavors dancing in your kitchen with this delightful Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Begin by thinly slicing the boneless, skinless chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Next, chop the green cabbage, bell pepper, and julienne the carrot for a vibrant crunch. Mince the garlic and ginger finely, as their aromatic qualities will elevate the flavors of the Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry. Make sure everything is ready before cooking, so you can work quickly.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, the minced ginger, and garlic. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Allow the mixture to marinate for about 10 minutes while you heat your pan; this will help intensify the flavors of the Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry.

Step 3: Heat Pan
Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, which typically takes about 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect sear on the chicken, giving it a desirable texture and rich flavor in your stir-fry.

Step 4: Cook Chicken
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken to the pan in a single layer. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Look for a nice golden color on the surface and avoid undercooking. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and toss in the chopped cabbage, bell pepper, and carrot. Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp; they should be vibrant in color and slightly softened without losing their crunch. This step ensures the fresh flavors shine through in the Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to incorporate everything, allowing the flavors to mingle. The pan should already be hot, which will help to bring the dish back to temperature quickly while enhancing the aroma of the stir-fry.

Step 7: Season Stir-Fry
Add the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), hoisin sauce, and sesame oil to the stir-fry mixture. Stir everything together for about 1-2 minutes to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly in the sauce. Look for a glossy appearance as the sauces begin to meld, enriching the dish with savory flavor.

Step 8: Finalize Cooking
Allow the stir-fry to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will ensure the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors have time to blend beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when everything is heated through and aromatic, making your kitchen feel inviting and warm.

Step 9: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste the Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preferences. A slight seasoning tweak can elevate the dish. Stir once more and let simmer for a minute to absorb the adjusted flavors.

Step 10: Garnish
Finally, serve the stir-fry hot, garnishing with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for added texture and flavor. This simple finishing touch elevates your dish’s presentation, making your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry not only delicious but visually appealing.

Make Ahead Options

These Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can slice the chicken and chop all the vegetables (cabbage, bell pepper, and carrot) up to 24 hours in advance—just keep them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and crunch. Additionally, you can mix the sauce ingredients ahead of time and store them together. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply marinate the chicken for 10 minutes, then stir-fry everything as per the recipe instructions. This make-ahead strategy not only saves time but also ensures your dish will be just as flavorful and vibrant!

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dish and make it uniquely yours!

Shrimp Option: Swap chicken for shrimp for a lighter protein with a sweet, briny flavor. Just sauté until opaque.
Tofu Delight: Replace chicken with firm or extra-firm tofu for a hearty vegetarian twist. Pan-sear until golden for added texture.
Mixed Veggies: Use seasonal vegetables like bok choy or snap peas for a fresh flavor twist; they cook quickly and add vibrant color.
Spice It Up: For heat lovers, add sliced chili peppers or a dash of sriracha to the stir-fry for a fiery kick.
Sauce Swap: Experiment with different sauces; try teriyaki or a sweet and sour sauce for a fun flavor variation on this classic.
Grated Carrot: Instead of julienning, grate the carrot for a different texture that’ll soften quickly while adding sweetness.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of traditional soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Noodle Addition: Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice noodles or quinoa for a hearty meal, turning this dish into a wholesome stir-fry bowl.

If you love quick and flavorful dinners, be sure to check out my Garlic Butter Chicken or give these Chicken Enchiladas Comfort a try for your next family meal!

Expert Tips for Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Hot Pan Essential: Ensure your pan is hot before adding the chicken; this step creates a perfect sear, enhancing flavor and texture.
Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd the pan while cooking chicken; this prevents steaming and ensures your chicken gets that lovely golden-brown finish.
Taste as You Go: Adjust the sauce according to your taste preferences; feel free to add more soy sauce for saltiness or hoisin for sweetness in your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry.
Prep Ahead: Chop all your ingredients before cooking to streamline the process, allowing you to focus on timing for a quick and efficient stir-fry.
Rest Before Serving: Let your stir-fry rest for a minute before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing every bite.

Storage Tips for Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps to preserve the flavors and keep the chicken and veggies fresh.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and prevent sticking. Enjoy your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry again!

What to Serve with Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry?

As you savor the vibrant flavors of this delectable stir-fry, consider these delicious pairings that will elevate your meal to the next level.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains provide a neutral base that soaks up the savory sauce beautifully, allowing the stir-fry to shine.
Quinoa Salad: This nutty superfood adds a delightful texture and can be tossed with fresh vegetables for a refreshing side that complements the richness of the stir-fry.
Garlic Butter Broccoli: Tender-crisp broccoli sautéed in garlic-infused butter brings a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist, pairing excellently with the beloved umami notes from the dish.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy appetizers are filled with fresh veggies and are perfect to munch on before the main course, making them an irresistible addition to the table.
Coconut Milk Soup: The comforting creaminess of this soup will balance the stir-fry’s vibrant flavors while adding an exotic touch to your meal.
Sweet and Sour Cabbage Slaw: This zesty slaw brings a refreshing crunch and a splash of acidity that nicely contrasts with the tender chicken and cabbage stir-fry.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: Lightly dressed with vinegar, this salad offers a cool, refreshing bite that offsets the warmth of the stir-fry, making every forkful delightful.
Chardonnay or Riesling: Sipping a glass of chilled wine alongside the stir-fry enhances the meal experience with its crispness, adding another layer of flavor enjoyment.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat brings together creamy coconut and fragrant mango, providing a lovely finish to your meal after the savory stir-fry.

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best cabbage for my stir-fry?
Absolutely! Look for cabbage that’s firm with crisp leaves and no dark spots. Green cabbage is ideal for its crunch, but Napa cabbage can offer a unique flavor.

What is the best way to store leftover Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy the best flavors, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Can I freeze my stir-fry?
Yes! To freeze, allow the stir-fry to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet for the best results.

What if my stir-fry turns out too watery?
Very! If you find your stir-fry is too watery, cook it a bit longer over medium-high heat to evaporate excess moisture. If you’d like to thicken the sauce, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it in while cooking until it thickens.

Is this recipe suitable for those with soy allergies?
For sure! You can use coconut aminos or a homemade sauce using broth and spices as a soy sauce substitute for a flavor that still keeps the dish vibrant. Be sure to check your hoisin sauce as well for any soy content.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Of course! Substitute the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or even chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option. Use vegetable broth instead of oyster sauce and ensure all sauces are vegan-friendly for a delightful veggie-packed meal!