Why You’ll Love Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

This Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious, low-carb meal. The tender chicken and crunchy cabbage are a match made in stir fry heaven, and the sauce brings everything together in a burst of flavor. It’s also incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and a short cooking time. Whether you’re on a health kick, meal prepping, or just craving a tasty, low-effort dish, this recipe will not disappoint.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
4 cups shredded cabbage (about half a medium head)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Stir fry the cabbage: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary. Add the shredded cabbage and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, until it starts to soften but still has some crunch.
Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (if using), sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir to combine.
Combine everything: Return the chicken to the skillet with the cabbage. Pour the sauce over the chicken and cabbage mixture. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the sauce to slightly thicken.
Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas for extra color and nutrients.
Spicy: Add chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh chopped chilies to the stir fry for a bit of heat.
Use different proteins: This recipe works well with shrimp, beef, or even turkey as a substitute for chicken.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover stir fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through. You may need to add a small splash of water to keep the cabbage from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it fully before slicing and cooking for best results.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this stir fry can be made ahead of time. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep.

Can I add other vegetables to the stir fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the stir fry for more variety and nutrition.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, include chili flakes, fresh chopped chilies, or a splash of sriracha to the stir fry sauce.

Can I use a different type of oil for stir frying?

Yes, you can use other oils like avocado oil, sesame oil, or vegetable oil in place of olive oil.

How can I make this recipe more flavorful?

Try marinating the chicken in the sauce mixture for 15-30 minutes before cooking for a deeper flavor.

What can I serve with Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry?

This stir fry pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Can I make this recipe without honey?

Yes, you can leave out the honey if you prefer a savory dish. You can also substitute with a bit of maple syrup or agave if you want a touch of sweetness.

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?

Yes, using pre-shredded cabbage can save time, but freshly shredded cabbage tends to have a better texture when stir-fried.

Conclusion

This Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is a simple yet delicious dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, it’s the perfect meal for busy evenings or meal prepping for the week ahead. Whether you stick to the basic recipe or customize it with additional veggies and seasonings, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

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A quick and delicious Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry that’s healthy and packed with flavor. This stir-fry recipe combines tender chicken with crunchy cabbage and a savory sauce, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a low-carb, gluten-free meal that’s easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stir Fry
Cuisine: Asian
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Heat the olive oil and sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the sliced chicken to the skillet and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Add the bell pepper and cabbage to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crunchy.
Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, and chili flakes (optional). Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together to combine.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions, and serve hot.

Notes

You can substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different variation.
For extra crunch, you can add some chopped peanuts or cashews as a garnish.
Make sure to slice the cabbage and chicken into thin, even pieces for quick cooking.