Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

This Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe is a fantastic option for those busy weeknights when you want something healthy yet flavorful. In under 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious dish featuring tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and an irresistible sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners or even meal prep and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with rice or noodles.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Stir-Fry
• For the Sauce
• Garnish
• How to Make Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
• Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 3: Cook the Chicken
• Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
• Step 5: Cook the Vegetables
• Step 6: Combine and Add the Sauce
• Step 7: Final Touches
• How to Serve Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
• With Rice
• With Noodles
• As a Wrap
• Salad Base
• How to Perfect Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
• Reheating Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is the best way to slice cabbage for stir-fry?
• Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
• How can I customize my Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish takes only about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and plenty of vitamins from the veggies, this stir-fry is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauce to suit your taste preferences.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, clean-up is a breeze!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh vegetables creates a savory experience that will delight your taste buds.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe, gather the necessary tools to make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Provides ample space for stir-frying all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Ensures safety and cleanliness while chopping vegetables and meat.
• Knife: A sharp knife allows for quick prep of your ingredients, saving time in the kitchen.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for marinating chicken and preparing sauces without mixing flavors prematurely.

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 2 cups cabbage, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
• 1 carrot, julienned

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

Garnish

• Green onions for garnish

How to Make Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and a pinch of black pepper. Add the diced chicken breast and toss to coat. Let the chicken marinate for 10–15 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (if using), 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and the cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water). Set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Melt the butter in the skillet and then add the marinated chicken. Stir-fry for about 4–5 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a little more butter if necessary. Sauté the sliced onion and minced garlic until fragrant—about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Vegetables

Add chopped cabbage, sliced bell pepper, and julienned carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry for approximately 5–6 minutes while stirring frequently until vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Step 6: Combine and Add the Sauce

Return cooked chicken to the skillet with vegetables. Pour in prepared sauce and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook an additional 2–3 minutes allowing sauce to thicken slightly while flavors meld together.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your stir-fry; adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot garnished with green onions for a delightful presentation!

How to Serve Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

This Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, this rice pairs perfectly with the savory stir-fry.
• Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber to your dish.

With Noodles

• Lo Mein Noodles: Soft and chewy, these noodles absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
• Rice Noodles: Gluten-free and quick to prepare, they add a delightful texture to your stir-fry.

As a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the stir-fry for a fresh, crunchy bite.
• Whole Wheat Tortillas: For a heartier option, use tortillas as wraps for a satisfying meal on the go.

Salad Base

• Mixed Greens: Serve the stir-fry over a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing twist.
• Cabbage Slaw: Add extra crunch with a side of cabbage slaw dressed lightly with vinegar.

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How to Perfect Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

To make sure your Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry turns out flawlessly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables will elevate the taste and texture of your dish.
• Marinate Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying.
• Maintain High Heat: Cooking at medium-high heat ensures that everything cooks quickly while retaining crispness.
• Add Vegetables in Stages: Start with harder vegetables like carrots, then add softer ones like cabbage for even cooking.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your dish before serving; adjust seasoning as needed for balance.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

Complement your Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry with these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall meal.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Adds vibrant color and nutrients; simply steam until bright green and tender-crisp.
2. Garlic Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice with garlic complements the stir-fry’s savory notes—great for leftovers!
3. Egg Drop Soup: A light soup that pairs well without overpowering; it’s comforting and easy to make.
4. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies make an excellent appetizer or side—perfectly crunchy!
5. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies provide a nice contrast to the savory stir-fry; they are easy to prepare ahead of time.
6. Quinoa Salad: Nutritious quinoa mixed with fresh veggies offers a healthy, filling side that’s also gluten-free.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Take the time to marinate your chicken for at least 10-15 minutes for better taste.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can result in mushiness. Stir-fry them until they are tender but still crisp for that perfect texture.
• Neglecting heat levels: Using low heat can cause ingredients to steam instead of stir-frying. Ensure your skillet is hot enough to achieve a nice sear on the chicken and veggies.
• Ignoring sauce thickness: If you want a thicker sauce, make sure to add the cornstarch slurry correctly. Mix it well and cook briefly for ideal consistency.
• Forgetting about seasoning: Tasting your dish before serving is essential. Adjust salt, pepper, or sauces as needed to enhance overall flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the stir-fry to cool down before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Portion out servings to make reheating easier later.

Reheating Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place stir-fry in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer stir-fry to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe:

What is the best way to slice cabbage for stir-fry?

Slicing cabbage into thin strips allows it to cook evenly while maintaining its crunch. Aim for about 1-inch wide pieces.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp, beef, or tofu as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I customize my Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe?

Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, or incorporate different sauces such as teriyaki for varied flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is not only quick and easy but also versatile and satisfying. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or sauces, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner or meal prep session. Give it a try and enjoy a deliciously light yet hearty dish!