Name: Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486783H48M44S
Total time: PT-486783H48M44S
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced; 1/2 medium cabbage, shredded; 1 onion, sliced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 1/4 cup chicken broth or water; Salt and pepper, to taste; Green onions, chopped, for garnish; Optional: chili flakes for heat

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a quick and flavorful meal, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is the perfect choice. It’s a delicious balance of tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and savory sauces, all stir-fried to perfection. Packed with protein, fiber, and lots of vegetables, this dish is a healthy and satisfying option that can be made in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a versatile meal for any night of the week.

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
1/2 medium cabbage, shredded
1 onion, sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
1/4 cup chicken broth or water
Salt and pepper, to taste
Green onions, chopped, for garnish
Optional: chili flakes for heat

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

Directions

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add sesame oil, onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for about 2 minutes, or until the onions become soft and fragrant.
Add the shredded cabbage to the pan and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until it begins to soften.
Return the chicken to the pan and mix everything together. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and chicken broth (or water). Stir well to combine all the flavors.
Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the cabbage to become tender. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more sauce if desired.
Garnish with chopped green onions and chili flakes if you want a little heat. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Add More Veggies: Try adding carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas to increase the vegetable content.
Spicy Stir-Fry: Add more chili flakes, or include fresh chili peppers for an extra kick of heat.
Noodles: Serve the stir-fry over noodles instead of rice for a different texture and taste.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes, or heat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, chicken thighs work great in this stir-fry and add extra flavor due to their higher fat content.

Is it necessary to use oyster sauce?

Oyster sauce adds a unique umami flavor, but you can omit it or substitute with a vegetarian oyster sauce if preferred.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce to make this stir-fry gluten-free.

What kind of cabbage should I use?

Green cabbage is typically used, but napa cabbage or bok choy can also be used for a slightly different texture and flavor.

Can I add more vegetables to this stir-fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for more color and nutrients.

How can I make the stir-fry less salty?

To reduce the saltiness, use low-sodium soy sauce and adjust the amount of salt you add at the end.

Can I freeze this stir-fry?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the stir-fry for up to 1-2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken to save time. Just add it in during the last few minutes to heat through.

Can I serve this stir-fry with something other than rice?

Yes, this stir-fry pairs well with noodles, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stir-fry during the last few minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a versatile and quick meal that brings together tender chicken, crispy cabbage, and a savory sauce to create an irresistible dish. With its balanced flavors, easy preparation, and customization options, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a healthy, satisfying meal. Enjoy this stir-fry with rice, noodles, or on its own, and feel free to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to make it your own!