Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, this Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a healthy and satisfying weeknight meal. Tender chicken strips, crunchy cabbage, and a savory-sweet sauce come together to create a dish that’s low-carb, nutrient-rich, and irresistibly delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes – perfect for busy nights.
• Healthy & Low-Carb: Packed with lean protein and nutrient-dense cabbage.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, everyday ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced into strips
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
• 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 green onions, chopped (reserve green tops for garnish)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, minced

For the Sauce:

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce for a vegetarian option)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

For Garnish & Serving:

• Sesame seeds, toasted
• Sliced green onions
• Steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cutting board and knife
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and red pepper flakes.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and set aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

• Place chicken strips in a bowl and toss with 1 tbsp of the sauce.
• Let marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

• Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken strips and cook for 4-5 minutes until lightly browned and cooked through.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

• Add the remaining 2 tbsp of oil to the skillet.
• Add minced garlic and ginger and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Add cabbage, carrots, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 5: Combine & Add Sauce

• Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
• Pour the prepared sauce over the stir-fry and toss to coat evenly.
• If using the cornstarch mixture, add it now and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
• Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

• Remove from heat and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
• Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

• Slice Thinly: Thin slices of chicken cook quickly and evenly.
• High Heat is Key: Stir-frying requires quick cooking over high heat to maintain a crisp texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to avoid steaming.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Rice or Noodles: Serve over jasmine rice, brown rice, or soba noodles.
• Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice or zoodles for a lighter meal.
• Side Dish: Pair with steamed broccoli or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
• Top with Crunch: Add crushed peanuts or cashews for a nutty finish.

Storage & Reheating

Storing:

• Allow the stir-fry to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other proteins?
   Yes! Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, tofu, or tempeh.
2. Can I make it vegetarian?
   Absolutely. Swap the chicken with tofu or mushrooms and use hoisin sauce instead of oyster sauce.
3. Can I add more vegetables?
   Definitely! Snow peas, baby corn, and zucchini are great additions.
4. Can I freeze the stir-fry?
   Yes. Freeze the cooled stir-fry in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is the perfect go-to recipe for a quick, nutritious, and flavorful dinner. It’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and sauces, making it a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit any taste or dietary preference.

Whip up a batch tonight and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and delicious. Let me know how you liked it in the comments below!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 18g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 5g | Sodium: 450mg

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