Name: Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced; 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, julienned; 1/2 cup green onions, sliced; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon water; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds; Salt and pepper to taste

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious dinner option, you’ll love this Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry. This vibrant dish captures the authentic flavors of your favorite takeout meal, all made right in your kitchen. Whether you’re in a rush on a busy weeknight or want to whip up something healthy yet satisfying, this recipe comes to the rescue. With tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and sweet red peppers, this stir fry is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. All of these ingredients come together in a savory garlic-soy sauce that elevates the flavors and maximizes taste.

This dish is a versatile staple that’s customizable to fit your dietary needs. Whether you’re cutting down on carbs, going gluten-free, or just in need of a protein-packed meal, the Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry has got you covered! In less than 30 minutes, you can have a delicious homemade meal that rivals any restaurant offering, complete with impressive flavors and an eye-catching presentation. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate your favorite veggies into your diet while keeping things fun and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this delightful recipe:

Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, everything comes together in under 30 minutes.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and wholesome flavors.
Customizable: It’s easy to switch up the vegetables or sauces, so you can make it your own!
Family-Friendly: With flavors that appeal to both adults and kids, this meal is sure to be a hit.
Meal Prep Ideal: Great for making ahead of time, whether for meal prepping or leftovers.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the stir fry, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and workspace. Start by gathering all your ingredients; having everything at your fingertips will help make the process smoother. Ensure you have a sharp knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables, and perhaps a nice peeler for preparing the ginger. A heavy-bottomed wok or a sturdy skillet will be essential for achieving that perfect stir fry texture. The high sides of a wok are particularly helpful for tossing ingredients while they cook. Also, prepare a bowl to marinate the chicken, and a small mixing bowl for your sauce. Clean as you go to keep your workspace organized and efficient.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry:

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
1 red bell pepper, julienned
1/2 cup green onions, sliced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin the dish by marinating the chicken. In a mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced chicken breast with cornstarch, one tablespoon of soy sauce, and water. This mixture not only helps to tenderize the chicken but also adds flavor that will permeate as it cooks. Allow the chicken to sit for 10 to 15 minutes while you prepare the rest of your ingredients. Marinating the chicken is a quick step that makes a significant difference in taste and texture!

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, it’s the perfect time to whip up the sauce. In a small bowl, combine the remaining tablespoon of soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until well mixed. This savory sauce is key to bringing all the flavors of your stir fry together.

Step 3: Stir Fry the Chicken

Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in your wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook the chicken for about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure it cooks evenly and achieves a nice golden-brown color. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pan and set it aside while you cook the vegetables.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil followed by the chopped cabbage and julienned bell pepper. Stir fry the veggies for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until they become tender-crisp. This step is essential for maintaining the balance between freshness and tenderness in your stir fry. Avoid cooking them too long, as they should retain some crunch!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, return the chicken to the wok. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, tossing everything together to coat well. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. This is the moment when all the aromatic flavors blend beautifully!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle the stir fry with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. This dish is best served hot over steamed rice or noodles, making for a complete meal that satisfies all the senses.

Variations

Protein: Swap out chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different option. Each protein has its unique taste and texture.
Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute with your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or carrots to add color and nutrition.
Spices: Adjust the level of spice by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes, or add a splash of sriracha for an extra kick.

Cooking Notes

Marinating the chicken for even a short time enhances tenderness and flavor.
Always have your ingredients prepped ahead of time, as stir frying is quick and things can burn if you’re not ready.
Using high heat helps to achieve a great sear on the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your stir fry over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice for a wholesome feel.
For a low-carb option, enjoy it on a bed of cauliflower rice or zoodles (zucchini noodles).

Tips

Don’t overcrowd the pan while stir-frying. If necessary, cook in batches to maintain ideal texture and avoid steaming.
Feel free to use store-bought sauce options for a quick meal. Just adjust the seasoning as needed.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

1. Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all ingredients in advance. The chicken can be marinated a few hours before cooking, and the stir fry can be reheated easily.

2. Is the recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is ideal for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze leftover stir fry?

Yes, you can freeze the stir fry. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. It should retain its quality for about 2 months.

4. Can I use low-sodium soy sauce for this recipe?

Yes, low-sodium soy sauce works well in this recipe and helps keep the sodium content down while still providing flavor.

Conclusion

The Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is a must-try recipe that brings a wonderful combination of flavors and textures to your dinner table. It’s quick to make, nutritious, and perfect for experimenting with different ingredients. You can easily customize this dish to your liking and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Whether you serve it over rice or noodles, this stir fry will leave you satisfied and craving more. Don’t forget to share your variations and feedback in the comments section. Enjoy preparing this delightful recipe at home!