Name: Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced; 4 cups cabbage, shredded; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated; 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional for heat); 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish); Green onions, chopped (for garnish); Salt and pepper to taste

This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with crisp cabbage in a savory sauce. It’s an easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch. The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce adds bold flavors while keeping it light and refreshing.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced

4 cups cabbage, shredded

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon sesame oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon chili paste (optional for heat)

1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

Heat olive oil and sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Add the sliced chicken and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet, stirring frequently, and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the cabbage is just tender but still crisp.

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and chili paste.

Return the chicken to the skillet and pour the sauce over the chicken and cabbage. Stir well to combine and heat through.

Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the chicken and cabbage evenly.

Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: I can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh. The cooking process will be the same.

Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free option, I use tamari instead of soy sauce. This ensures the dish is safe for those avoiding gluten.

Spicy: If I like a little extra heat, I can add more chili paste or even some red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Add more vegetables: To increase the nutritional value, I sometimes add carrots, bell peppers, or snow peas along with the cabbage.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This stir-fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: I simply reheat it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh chicken for the best texture, but if I have frozen chicken, I would thaw it completely before using it in the stir-fry.

Can I make this stir-fry ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is great for meal prep! I can prepare everything ahead of time and store it in the fridge. The cabbage may soften slightly after sitting, but it still tastes great.

Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, this stir-fry is low in carbs, especially if I skip the honey or maple syrup. It’s perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet.

Can I use a different oil?

If I prefer, I can substitute olive oil with another cooking oil, like avocado oil or canola oil, though it might slightly change the flavor.

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?

Yes, using pre-shredded cabbage will save me time. Just make sure the cabbage is fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a wonderfully quick and healthy meal. The combination of tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and a savory sauce makes for a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Whether I make it as a weeknight dinner or for meal prep, it’s a dish I know will always hit the spot. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be adjusted to suit my dietary preferences, making it a great addition to my regular recipe rotation.

Recipe: