Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors and comes together in a flash? This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is your answer. It’s a weeknight warrior, delivering savory goodness and tender-crisp vegetables in every delightful bite.

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry:

Discover why this sensational stir-fry is about to become your new favorite go-to meal:

  • Lightning Fast: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
  • Flavor Explosion: A delicious blend of savory oyster and soy sauces with a subtle kick from jalapeño.
  • Fresh & Vibrant: Packed with crisp cabbage, sweet bell pepper, and aromatic garlic.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses common, affordable ingredients you likely have on hand.
  • Wholesome & Satisfying: Lean chicken and plenty of veggies make for a balanced, fulfilling meal.
  • Customizable: Easily adapt with your favorite vegetables or a touch more spice.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your delicious creation.
  • Family-Friendly: A delightful taste that even picky eaters will appreciate.

Gather Your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Ingredients:

Preparing a delicious stir-fry starts with fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with tips for selecting the best:

  • 1 tbsp (14g) butter: For a rich base.
  • 1 medium onion (approx. 150g), sliced: Choose firm, unblemished onions.
  • 2 cloves garlic (approx. 10g), minced: Fresh garlic offers the best flavor.
  • 1/2 head green cabbage (approx. 400g), shredded: Look for a compact, heavy head.
  • 2 chicken breasts (approx. 400g / 1 lb), thinly sliced: Opt for fresh, plump chicken.
  • 1/2 jalapeño pepper, finely diced: Remove seeds for less heat, keep for a fiery kick.
  • 1 orange pepper (approx. 150g), diced: Select vibrant, firm peppers without soft spots.
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken stock: Low-sodium is always a good choice.
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) oyster sauce: Adds savory depth and umami.
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) soy sauce: Use a good quality brand for authentic flavor.
  • Pinch of salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Sticky Sesame Cauliflower – Easy Glutenfree Vegan Friendly Recipe – A delightful and healthy side dish bursting with Asian-inspired flavors.

Essential Stir-Fry Equipment for Success:

Having the right tools makes all the difference when crafting the perfect stir-fry.

  • Large Skillet or Wok: A spacious surface ensures even cooking and prevents overcrowding.
  • Sharp Knife: Essential for precise, quick chopping and slicing.
  • Cutting Board: Keep your countertops safe and clean while prepping.
  • Spatula or Tongs: For stirring and flipping ingredients efficiently.

Your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry at a Glance:

Get ready to whip up this amazing dish with these quick details:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Easy

How to Make This Flavorful Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry:

Follow these simple steps for a truly incredible stir-fry experience that will tantalize your taste buds.

Prepping Your Ingredients:

  1. Begin by thinly slicing the chicken breasts into uniform strips. This crucial step ensures they cook quickly and absorb all the delicious flavors evenly in your stir-fry.
  2. Next, skillfully slice the onion and orange pepper, meticulously mince the garlic, and finely dice the jalapeño pepper. Having these ingredients ready beforehand guarantees a smooth and organized cooking process, allowing you to focus on the magic.
  3. Finally, shred the vibrant green cabbage into bite-sized pieces. These smaller pieces will cook perfectly and blend harmoniously with the chicken and other vegetables.

Cooking the Stir-Fry:

  1. In a large skillet or wok, melt the butter over medium-high heat until it glistens and sizzles. Add the sliced chicken breasts, seasoning them generously with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir-fry until the chicken is fully cooked through and beautifully lightly browned, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This stage is vital for locking in the juices and flavor.
  2. Carefully transfer the perfectly cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside, reserving its delicious juices. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and stir-fry until it begins to soften, usually about 3 minutes. Then, incorporate the minced garlic and finely diced jalapeño pepper, cooking for an additional minute while stirring frequently to awaken their aromatic flavors.
  3. Next, introduce the shredded cabbage and diced orange pepper to the skillet. Pour in the rich chicken stock and stir everything to combine thoroughly. Add the savory oyster sauce and soy sauce, ensuring all the vegetables are coated evenly in the glistening sauce. Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the cabbage becomes tender yet retains a delightful, slightly crisp texture. If your sauce seems too thick, a splash of water or extra chicken stock will help achieve the desired consistency.
  4. Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, gently mixing it with the aromatic vegetables and simmering sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and all the incredible flavors to meld together into a cohesive, irresistible dish. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired, ensuring every bite is perfect.

CHECK OUT: Spicy Ground Beef Stir-Fry Bowl with Garlic Veggies & Steamy Rice – Another fantastic stir-fry option if you’re looking for a different protein!

Expert Stir-Fry Tips for Culinary Perfection:

Elevate your stir-fry game with these pro tips:

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it browns, not steams.
  • High Heat is Key: Maintain medium-high heat throughout for that signature stir-fry sizzle and tender-crisp vegetables.
  • Prep Ahead: Have all your ingredients chopped and ready before you start cooking; stir-frying moves fast!
  • Taste and Adjust: Always sample your stir-fry before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or sauces to your preference.

Delicious Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Variations & Substitutions:

Get creative in the kitchen with these easy modifications:

  • Vegetable Swaps: Add broccoli, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and crunch.
  • Spice It Up: A dash of chili flakes or a sprinkle of sriracha will add more heat.
  • Gluten-Free: Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
  • Add Nuts: Toasted cashews or peanuts offer a wonderful textural contrast.

Perfect Pairings: Serving Chinese Chicken Stir-Fry:

This versatile stir-fry can be enjoyed in many delightful ways:

  • Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, white or brown rice perfectly soaks up the savory sauce.
  • Noodles: Serve over lo mein or rice noodles for a heartier meal.
  • Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, scoop the stir-fry into crisp lettuce cups.
  • Non-Alcoholic Drink: A refreshing glass of iced green tea or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors beautifully.

Wholesome Goodness: Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Benefits:

Enjoying this stir-fry means nourishing your body with fantastic nutrients:

  • Rich in Protein: Chicken breasts provide lean protein for muscle health and satiety.
  • Vitamin-Packed: Cabbage, bell peppers, and onions deliver essential vitamins (C, K) and antioxidants.
  • Good Source of Fiber: Cabbage contributes fiber for digestive wellness.
  • Low Calorie, High Flavor: A satisfying meal without excess calories, perfect for a balanced diet.

Smart Storage: How to Store Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry:

Keep your delicious leftovers fresh and tasty with these simple storage tips:

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry - image 1
  • Refrigerate: Store leftover stir-fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: While possible, cabbage can become quite soft after freezing and thawing. If freezing, consume within 1 month.
  • Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to prevent drying out.

Your Questions Answered: Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry FAQs:

Curious about making the most of your stir-fry? Find answers to common questions here.

  • Can I use other meats?Absolutely! Thinly sliced beef, turkey, or even tofu would work wonderfully in this stir-fry.

  • What if I don’t have oyster sauce?While oyster sauce adds unique umami, you can substitute with a bit more soy sauce and a pinch of sugar, or a vegetarian oyster sauce alternative.

  • How do I make it spicier?Increase the amount of jalapeño, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, or drizzle with chili oil before serving.

  • Can I prepare ingredients ahead of time?Yes, chop all your vegetables and slice the chicken a day in advance to save time on busy weeknights.

  • Is this recipe healthy?Yes, it’s packed with lean protein and plenty of nutrient-rich vegetables, making it a wholesome meal.


Explore More Delicious Dishes like our Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry:

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Final Thoughts on This Incredible Stir-Fry:

This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry truly is a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, making healthy eating incredibly enjoyable. Don’t wait to add this crowd-pleaser to your weekly rotation! Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest for more delicious inspiration.

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Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry


  • Author: Lorena
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Description

A vibrant and savory stir-fry featuring tender chicken and crisp cabbage, enhanced with aromatic garlic, zesty jalapeño, and a rich oyster-soy sauce. Perfect for a quick, healthy weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

1 tbsp (14g) butter

1 medium onion (approx. 150g), sliced

2 cloves garlic (approx. 10g), minced

1/2 head green cabbage (approx. 400g), shredded

2 chicken breasts (approx. 400g / 1 lb), thinly sliced

1/2 jalapeño pepper, finely diced

1 orange pepper (approx. 150g), diced

1/2 cup (120ml) chicken stock

2 tbsp (30ml) oyster sauce

1 tbsp (15ml) soy sauce

Pinch of salt and pepper, to taste


Instructions

Thinly slice the chicken breasts into strips. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly in the stir-fry.
Slice the onion and orange pepper, mince the garlic, and finely dice the jalapeño pepper. Preparing these ingredients ahead of time allows for a more organized cooking process.
Shred the green cabbage. The cabbage should be in bite-sized pieces to ensure it cooks evenly and blends well with the chicken.
In a large skillet or wok, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is sizzling, add the sliced chicken breasts. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper and stir-fry the chicken until fully cooked through and lightly browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring your chicken remains juicy.
Transfer the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and stir-fry until it begins to soften, about 3 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and diced jalapeño pepper, cooking for an additional minute while stirring frequently to release their flavors.
Then, add the shredded cabbage and diced orange pepper. Pour in the chicken stock and stir to combine. Add the oyster sauce and soy sauce, ensuring the vegetables are coated evenly. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cabbage is tender yet still slightly crisp.
Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it with the vegetables and sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if required.
Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish. Serve hot, either on its own or over a bed of steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

To adjust spice level, remove jalapeño seeds for less heat or add a dash of red pepper flakes for more.
For best results, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper browning of chicken and crisp vegetables.
This dish is best served fresh but can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Calories: 260 kcal
  • Sodium: 590mg
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 33g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: Chinese chicken stir-fry, chicken cabbage stir-fry, quick dinner, healthy stir-fry, Asian chicken recipe, weeknight meal

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