Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and a satisfying mix of tender chicken and crunchy veggies, then this Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s a wonderfully simple yet incredibly tasty meal that brings together shredded cabbage, juicy chicken breast, and fragrant garlic and ginger in a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or whenever you want to delight your taste buds with something wholesome and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to this Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe lies in using straightforward, everyday ingredients that each add their own magic to the dish. Every element contributes to making the flavor balanced, the texture appealing, and the colors pop on your plate.

• 1 pound chicken breast: Trimmed and thinly sliced, it provides tender, protein-packed goodness.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a deep umami flavor and a pleasant saltiness to the marinade.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps the chicken develop a silky, slightly crispy coating when stir-fried.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Infuses the chicken with a subtle, nutty aroma that lifts the whole dish.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: A neutral oil perfect for cooking at high heat to achieve the perfect sear.
• 4 cups shredded cabbage: Provides a fresh crunch and loads of fiber, making the dish feel light yet satisfying.
• 1 carrot, julienned: Adds sweetness, color, and a hint of earthiness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a punch of fragrance and depth.
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced: Offers warmth and a subtle zing that brightens the stir-fry.
• 1/4 cup chicken broth: Keeps the veggies moist and ties the sauce together beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: A rich, savory addition that makes the flavor even more irresistible.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential finishing touches to balance and enhance flavors.

How to Make Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from your chicken breast and slicing it thinly against the grain. This helps keep the chicken tender and makes it cook quickly and evenly during the stir-fry.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken slices with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Mix everything well and let it sit to marinate for at least 15 minutes—this step is key because it infuses the chicken with plenty of flavor and guarantees a silky texture when cooked.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Warm up your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough to sear the chicken but not so hot that it burns.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and stir-fry it for about 5 to 7 minutes until cooked through and starting to get a golden edge. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it aside for the next step.

Step 5: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add more oil if needed, then toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them for about a minute until their incredible fragrance fills your kitchen—this moment is what builds the foundation of flavor.

Step 6: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Now, add the shredded cabbage and julienned carrot to the pan. Stir-fry these for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften slightly but still maintain a lovely crunch, keeping the dish refreshing and balanced.

Step 7: Add Broth and Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and oyster sauce, stirring everything together to coat the vegetables beautifully in that savory, slightly glossy sauce.

Step 8: Combine Chicken and Veggies

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything until it’s heated through and perfectly combined, making sure every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 9: Season to Perfection

Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your taste. Give everything one last quick toss so the seasoning gets evenly distributed.

Step 10: Serve While Hot

Serve this vibrant Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry hot over a bed of steamed rice or alongside noodles for a wholesome, fulfilling meal that will quickly become a household favorite.

How to Serve Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped green onions or a handful of toasted sesame seeds on top to add an extra layer of texture and a lovely touch of color. A drizzle of a little extra sesame oil or even a squeeze of fresh lime can brighten the dish wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This stir-fry pairs beautifully with fluffy jasmine rice, fragrant coconut rice, or simple steamed noodles. For a green side, lightly sautéed bok choy or steamed snap peas complement the dish’s flavors without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe in lettuce cups for a fresh, crunchy handheld bite. Alternatively, wrap it in warm tortillas or stuff it into pita pockets with a drizzle of spicy mayo for an unexpected fusion-style meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save it for longer, freeze the stir-fry in freezer-safe containers or bags. It should maintain good quality for up to 2 months. Just remember that cabbage’s texture may soften after freezing and reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftover stir-fry gently in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you can to preserve the texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, you can swap it with chicken thigh for a juicier, more flavorful result. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s cooked through.

Is there a vegetarian version of this stir-fry?

Yes! You can replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, marinating and cooking it the same way. Add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to boost the flavors and textures.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce or want a vegetarian option, use mushroom stir-fry sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a touch of hoisin sauce as an alternative. These options still deliver a savory, rich flavor.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Definitely! Adding sliced fresh chili, a dash of chili flakes, or a spoonful of chili garlic sauce while cooking will add heat and a nice kick without taking away the original flavors of the dish.

How do I keep the cabbage from getting mushy?

The key is to stir-fry the cabbage only until it’s slightly softened but still crisp, about 3 to 4 minutes. Avoid overcooking and make sure your pan stays hot so the veggies cook quickly, preserving their crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe is truly a quick, vibrant meal that never fails to impress. With its perfect balance of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and savory sauce, it’s a fantastic dish to keep in your cooking repertoire. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how easy and rewarding this flavorful recipe can be!

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