If you’re craving a dinner that’s bursting with flavor, vibrant colors, and satisfying textures, this Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe will quickly become your new go-to meal. It’s a perfect harmony of tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and a savory sauce that brings it all together in just about 30 minutes. Easy to whip up and packed with wholesome goodness, this recipe is an absolute gem for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but fuss-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe truly shine, you only need a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a key role in building layers of taste and texture. From fresh chicken and crunchy cabbage to aromatic garlic and ginger, every element matters.
- Chicken breasts: Choosing boneless, skinless pieces allows for quick cooking and tender bites throughout.
- Green cabbage: This adds a wonderful crunch and mild sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- Onion and red bell pepper: Both bring depth and vibrant color, plus a hint of natural sweetness.
- Garlic and ginger: Essential aromatics that infuse the dish with warmth and a touch of zing.
- Soy sauce: Provides salty, umami richness that ties everything together.
- Brown sugar: Just enough for a subtle caramel note that lifts the sauce.
- Avocado and toasted sesame oils: Used for cooking and flavor, they lend a gentle nuttiness and silky texture.
- Chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor, keeping the chicken juicy and helping form the sauce.
- Cornstarch: The secret to a glossy, perfectly thickened sauce that clings to every ingredient.
- Green onions and sesame seeds: Garnishes that provide a fresh, crisp finish and a little extra flair.
How to Make Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce
Begin by whisking together the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame seed oil, cornstarch, minced garlic, and ginger in a medium bowl. This flavorful sauce will be the glue that binds the dish, offering both savory depth and a hint of sweetness that elevates all the ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Let them cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to encourage beautiful browning on the edges. This step not only seals in juices but also adds that irresistible caramelized flavor. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of avocado oil along with the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and develop some golden edges. Lower the heat to medium-low before adding the cabbage. Stir, cover, and let it cook for 7 minutes, stirring gently halfway through. A splash of water here helps steam the cabbage to tender-crisp perfection.
Step 4: Combine and Thicken the Sauce
Return the browned chicken to the skillet, give the sauce a quick whisk, then pour it over the chicken and vegetables. Stir gently to blend everything well. Let the mixture cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and beautifully coats the chicken and cabbage. This is where all the magic comes together in one savory, saucy bite.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the stir fry with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. These simple garnishes add burst of color, freshness, and a nutty crunch that perfectly finishes this tasty Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe.
How to Serve Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t skip the green onions and sesame seeds! They add a wonderful visual appeal and a subtle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and wilted cabbage. Feel free to add a few red chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha if you like a little heat on the side.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs wonderfully with fluffy steamed rice or even garlic fried rice for a heartier meal. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works like a charm and soaks up the sauce perfectly. A simple cucumber salad on the side can provide a refreshing balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe wrapped inside crisp lettuce leaves for handheld wraps. You can also pile it over soba noodles or tuck everything into a warm pita or tortilla for a fusion-style meal that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply place any leftover stir fry in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent choice for quick lunches or leftover dinners.
Freezing
This dish freezes well. Cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. It’s best eaten within 1 to 2 months for optimal flavor and texture. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the stir fry gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout. You can also microwave it, but be sure to do so in short bursts, stirring in between to prevent overcooking and drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cabbage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is traditional and offers a nice crunch, you can substitute with Napa cabbage or Savoy cabbage, which have a milder flavor and slightly softer texture. Just adjust cooking times slightly as these varieties may cook faster.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out regular soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos, which will keep the flavor rich without the gluten. Just double-check the other ingredients for gluten content as well.
Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. Shrimp, firm tofu, or thinly sliced beef work wonderfully with the flavors and cooking method. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for each protein.
How spicy is this Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe?
As written, this recipe is mild to moderate in heat, focusing on savory and sweet flavors. You can easily add chili flakes, fresh chilies, or chili sauce if you prefer a spicier kick.
What’s the best oil to use for stir frying?
Avocado oil is perfect because of its high smoke point and neutral flavor, allowing the other ingredients to shine. Sesame oil, particularly the toasted kind, is excellent for finishing because of its rich, nutty aroma, but it’s best used sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is one of those comforting yet fresh dishes that feels homemade with love but comes together quickly enough for any busy schedule. Once you taste the harmony of tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and that luscious sauce, you’ll understand why it quickly became a favorite in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll be a repeat on your table too!
Print
Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish combining tender chicken breast pieces with crisp green cabbage and vibrant vegetables, all coated in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a healthy weeknight meal that brings Asian-inspired flavors to your table with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 3 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, coarsely chopped
- 1 large red bell pepper, coarsely chopped
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 2 pounds green cabbage, coarsely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil, divided (for frying)
- 2 green onion sprigs, for garnish
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish
Stir Fry Sauce
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seed oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger (or 2 teaspoons dried ginger)
Instructions
- Prepare Stir Fry Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame seed oil, cornstarch, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces sprinkled with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the chicken to develop golden brown edges. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a large plate and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of avocado oil and increase heat to medium-high. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Stir and cook for about 3 minutes until vegetables start to brown slightly.
- Cook Cabbage: Reduce heat to medium-low and add the coarsely chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir to combine, then cover and cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water halfway through to help soften the cabbage evenly.
- Combine and Thicken Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir the prepared stir fry sauce to recombine and pour it over the chicken and vegetables. Gently stir everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats all ingredients evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Turn off the heat. Sprinkle the stir fry with sliced green onion and toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and texture. Serve immediately while hot and flavorful.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili when sautéing vegetables.
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in a skillet or microwave.
- Adding a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice at the end can brighten the flavor profile.
