If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that comes together quickly, the Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish combines tender strips of chicken with crisp cabbage and colorful vegetables, all coated in a savory sauce that’s bursting with umami. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a go-to meal when you want something healthy, satisfying, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re busy after work or just craving something fresh, this recipe is a delight you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to delivering the authentic taste and satisfying bite of this stir fry. Each one contributes to the overall balance — from the juicy chicken and crunchy vegetables to the savory sauces and aromatics that round out the dish.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and tender bites.
- Small head of cabbage: Adds a crisp, slightly sweet crunch that holds up beautifully in the stir fry.
- Large carrot: Julienned for a splash of color and a touch of natural sweetness.
- Bell pepper: Thinly sliced to bring brightness and a fresh, crisp texture.
- Green onions: Chopped to add a mild onion flavor and garnish appeal.
- Garlic cloves: Minced to infuse a fragrant, savory aroma.
- Soy sauce: The salty backbone that ties all the flavors together.
- Oyster sauce: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the sauce.
- Sesame oil: A drizzle for its nutty aroma and richness.
- Vegetable oil: For sautéing the chicken and vegetables evenly.
- Ground ginger: A touch of warmth and spice that enhances the flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper: To season to perfection.
- Sesame seeds (for garnish): Adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by slicing the chicken breasts into thin, even strips. This ensures they cook quickly and remain tender. Next, take your cabbage and thinly slice it, julienne the carrot for little slivers, and slice the bell pepper into thin strips. Having everything prepped and ready will make the stir fry process smooth and fun.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a splash of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken slices and cook, stirring occasionally, until nicely browned and cooked through. This step seals in the juices and creates a lovely caramelized flavor. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside for the next step.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Using the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant—this unlocks its intense aroma. Then add your cabbage, carrot, and bell pepper. Stir-fry these for a few minutes until they are tender but still have a satisfying crunch. This keeps the dish vibrant and texturally interesting.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables, then pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Sprinkle a bit of ground ginger and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together well to coat all the ingredients in the flavorful sauce and heat through for a minute or two. The sauce will cling beautifully, marrying each element perfectly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the stir fry with freshly chopped green onions and a generous scattering of sesame seeds. These final touches add freshness and a lovely nutty crunch to every bite.
How to Serve Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Think beyond just sesame seeds and green onions. Fresh cilantro leaves or a squeeze of lime juice can elevate the flavors further, adding brightness and contrast. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can introduce a gentle kick if you enjoy a little heat.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple steamed rice or even cauliflower rice if you’re looking for a low-carb option. For a bit of extra freshness, consider a light cucumber salad or pickled radish to complement the rich, savory stir fry.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve the Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe in a colorful bowl with an over-easy egg on top for brunch vibes. Another fun idea is to wrap the stir fry in warm lettuce leaves for a handheld delight that’s both crunchy and refreshing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, cool any leftovers quickly and transfer them to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, the stir fry will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for easy lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, too. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. When frozen, it will last up to 2 months without losing the wonderful flavor and texture that make this stir fry so comforting.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in a hot skillet over medium heat to bring back that freshly stir-fried crispness. If using a microwave, cover loosely and stir halfway through to ensure even heating. Adding a splash of water or soy sauce during reheating can help keep the veggies tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This stir fry is versatile. Try thinly sliced beef, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly so your protein cooks through perfectly.
What’s the best type of cabbage to use?
Green cabbage is traditional for this recipe due to its mild flavor and sturdy texture, but Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage work beautifully as well. They each bring a slightly different crunch and sweetness that’s delicious.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute alongside gluten-free oyster sauce to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing flavor.
How spicy is this Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe?
The recipe as written is mild, but you can easily add more heat with chili flakes, fresh chilies, or a dash of hot sauce to suit your preference. Stir fry dishes are great for customization.
Can I prepare the vegetables in advance?
Definitely! Prepping veggies ahead saves time during cooking. Just keep them in an airtight container or plastic bag in the fridge and stir-fry while fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about the crisp crunch of cabbage, the tender bite of chicken, and the rich, savory sauce all mixed together in this Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe. It’s not just quick and easy — it’s a celebration of flavor and texture that feels like a special treat any day of the week. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make it a new staple in your kitchen!
Print
Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and flavorful Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry featuring tender chicken breast, crisp cabbage, and colorful vegetables, all tossed in a savory soy and oyster sauce blend. This easy stir-fry is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
Vegetables
- 1 small head of cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces and Oils
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Slice the chicken breast thinly for quick cooking. Thinly slice the cabbage, julienne the carrot, and thinly slice the bell pepper to create uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Cook Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then add the sliced cabbage, julienned carrot, and bell pepper. Stir-fry the vegetables until they are tender yet still crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
- Combine and Season: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and ground ginger. Stir everything together to combine well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through and flavors meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds to add a fresh and nutty finish. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili flakes during the vegetable stir-fry step.
- Use a wok if available for better heat distribution and authentic stir-fry texture.
- Vegetables can be substituted or added according to preference, such as snap peas or mushrooms.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop.
- Ensure chicken is sliced thinly for even cooking and quick stir-fry time.
