Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

Are you hungry right now? This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is the one I turn to when I need something fast, fresh, and full of flavor. It’s super easy and done in like… 15 minutes!

I mean, just look at it. Tender chicken, crispy cabbage, all tossed in a savory sauce. It’s better than takeout, and yeah, way cheaper too.

If you’ve got a pan and a few simple things in your kitchen, you can make this. Trust me, I’ve done it a million times. Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Reader Favorite: Many readers rave, “This stir-fry is so flavorful and easy!” It’s a crowd-pleaser that is guaranteed to make your taste buds do a happy dance.
• Quick & Simple: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Healthy & Light: Packed with lean chicken and fresh veggies, this stir fry is light but satisfying.
• Customizable: The beauty of stir fry is that you can adjust the veggies and sauces to suit your preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for meals throughout the week.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have these essential tools on hand to ensure everything comes together smoothly:

• Wok or Large Skillet: A wok is perfect for stir-frying, but any large skillet will work.
• Sharp Knife: For cutting the chicken and vegetables evenly.
• Cutting Board: To prep your ingredients before cooking.
• Tongs or Wooden Spoon: For stirring the stir-fry without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups: To measure out the sauces and seasonings accurately.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful stir fry (exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below):

• Sesame Oil: This oil imparts a rich, nutty flavor, essential for authentic stir fry.
• Medium Onion: Adds a sweet, savory base to the dish.
• Cloves Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a deliciously aromatic fragrance and flavor.
• Green Cabbage: Crisp and mild, it complements the other ingredients perfectly and adds a nice crunch.
• Green Onions (Chopped): These provide a mild oniony bite and make for a great garnish.
• Chicken Breasts: Tender, juicy chicken breasts serve as the main protein in this dish.
• Red Pepper (Diced): Adds a sweet and slightly spicy kick, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Black Sesame Seeds: A garnish that adds a beautiful color contrast and a subtle crunch.
• Chinese Stir Fry Sauce: A savory blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and more, creating the perfect stir fry flavor base.
• Chicken Stock: For added depth of flavor and to create the sauce base.
• Oyster Sauce: Gives a slight sweetness and rich umami flavor to balance the other ingredients.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness that helps balance the savory and tangy elements.
• Soy Sauce: A staple in stir fry dishes, this brings saltiness and umami.
• Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a little heat to the mix.

Variations for Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

• Add More Vegetables: If you love vegetables, you can add other stir-fry favorites like bell peppers, mushrooms, snow peas, or carrots.
• Use Ground Chicken or Pork: Instead of chicken breasts, you can use ground chicken or even pork for a different texture.
• Spicy Version: Add sliced chilies or a dash of chili flakes if you like a spicy stir fry.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
• Add Nuts: Throw in a handful of cashews or peanuts for a delightful crunch and added protein.
• Use Coconut Sugar: For a healthier twist, you can swap brown sugar with coconut sugar, which has a lower glycemic index.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients

Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Slice the chicken breasts thinly against the grain to ensure they cook quickly and remain tender. Finely chop the onion and garlic. Cut the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and dice the red pepper. Chop the green onions for garnish.

2. Heat the Wok and Add Sesame Oil

Place your wok or skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of sesame oil. Allow it to heat up and become fragrant. The sesame oil is key to creating that authentic stir fry flavor and provides the base for cooking the chicken.

3. Cook the Chicken

Add the sliced chicken breasts to the wok. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside on a plate.

4. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same wok, add a little more sesame oil if needed. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté them for about 2 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. The goal is to develop a deep, savory base for the stir fry.

5. Add the Vegetables

Now, it’s time to add the vegetables. Start with the cabbage and red pepper, and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they are just tender but still slightly crisp. This helps retain their nutrients and gives the stir fry a nice crunch.

6. Add the Sauces and Chicken Stock

Once the vegetables are ready, it’s time to add the sauces. Pour in the Chinese stir-fry sauce, chicken stock, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir everything together, making sure the cabbage and chicken are well coated with the sauce mixture. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

7. Return the Chicken to the Wok

Add the cooked chicken back into the wok, along with any juices from the plate. Stir everything together so that the chicken absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce and veggies. Let it cook for an additional minute to ensure everything is heated through.

8. Finish with Pepper and Garnish

Finish the stir fry by adding freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir everything one last time, then remove from heat.

Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of black sesame seeds for a beautiful, flavorful presentation.

How to Serve Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

This stir-fry can be served in various ways, making it a versatile dish for any occasion:

• Over Rice: Serve your stir-fry over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a hearty, filling meal.
• In Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the stir fry in fresh lettuce leaves for a delicious low-carb meal.
• With Noodles: Pair it with your favorite Asian noodles for an even more satisfying dish. Lo mein or soba noodles work well.
• As a Standalone Dish: If you prefer a low-carb meal, enjoy this dish as it is, packed with protein and veggies.

Storing Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

• Leftovers: Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop and deepen overnight, making it just as delicious the next day.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if it’s too dry. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe container for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

How to Serve Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

This stir fry is incredibly versatile, and there are many ways to serve it:

• Over Rice: The classic way! Serve this stir fry over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or any grain of your choice for a satisfying, filling meal.
• In Lettuce Wraps: For a fresh, low-carb option, spoon the stir-fry into large, crisp lettuce leaves for a delicious wrap.
• With Noodles: If you’re craving carbs, serve the stir fry with noodles like lo mein or soba for a more indulgent dish.
• On Its Own: If you’re looking to keep things light, this stir fry is perfect served just as it is, packed with protein, fiber, and flavor.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—you can enjoy this stir fry the next day!

• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve over time as they meld together.
• Reheating: When reheating, warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a little chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe container for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	300
Protein	30g
Carbohydrates	15g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	5g
Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	2g
Sodium	900mg
Potassium	450mg
Vitamin A	25% Daily Value
Vitamin C	60% Daily Value
Calcium	4% Daily Value
Iron	10% Daily Value

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry FAQs

Can I use other vegetables instead of cabbage?

Absolutely! While cabbage gives the dish a nice crunch and sweetness, you can swap it out for other vegetables like bok choy, napa cabbage, broccoli, snow peas, or bell peppers. Feel free to mix and match depending on what you have on hand or your personal preference.

Can I make this stir fry in advance?

Yes! This stir fry is actually great for meal prepping. You can cook the entire dish, let it cool, and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave when you’re ready to serve.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Definitely! If you enjoy a little heat, add some red pepper flakes, fresh chopped chilies, or a dash of chili paste to the stir-fry sauce. You can also add some sliced fresh jalapeños while stir-frying the vegetables to bring in that spicy kick.

What type of soy sauce should I use?

I recommend using regular soy sauce for the most balanced flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, you can use reduced-sodium soy sauce. If you need a gluten-free version, tamari is an excellent alternative to soy sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can absolutely substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs. Chicken thighs are slightly more tender and juicy than chicken breasts, so they will add extra flavor and richness to the stir fry. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly.

Can I freeze Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry?

While it’s possible to freeze this stir fry, the texture of the cabbage and chicken may change once thawed. If you plan to freeze it, be sure to store the stir fry in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

If you find that the sauce is too thin for your liking, you can thicken it by mixing a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the sauce and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it thickens. This will give your stir fry a richer, more velvety texture.

Can I make this stir fry with tofu or shrimp instead of chicken?

Yes! You can easily swap the chicken for other proteins. Tofu works well if you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan option—simply press the tofu to remove excess moisture and then cut it into cubes before stir-frying. Shrimp is another excellent protein choice, cooking much faster than chicken, so be sure to add it last and stir-fry for just a few minutes until pink and cooked through.

Final Thoughts on Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is a go-to dish that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and flexible to suit your dietary preferences. Whether you stick to the classic chicken and cabbage combo or experiment with different veggies, proteins, or spice levels, you can make this dish your own. With a perfect balance of savory sauces, tender chicken, and crunchy vegetables, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

This dish is not only quick and healthy but also perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner when you want something hearty yet light. Try it out and watch it become a regular in your cooking rotation!