If you’re craving a quick, wholesome, and utterly delicious meal that bursts with flavor and texture, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe is about to become your new kitchen hero. Combining tender, marinated chicken with crunchy cabbage and crisp carrots, all enveloped in a savory sauce that balances soy, oyster, and hoisin beautifully, this stir-fry is a vibrant celebration of simple ingredients working together in perfect harmony. It’s a dish that’s not only satisfying but also colorful and nutritious, making weeknight dinners something everyone looks forward to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each component adds a distinct flavor or texture, from the succulent chicken to the refreshing crunch of cabbage and the fragrant kick of ginger and garlic.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs: Thinly sliced for quick, even cooking and juicy results.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds deep umami and saltiness to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Brings a subtle sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Offers a rich, slightly tangy layer of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Infuses a nutty aroma that perks up every bite.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Ideal for stir-frying at high heat without burning.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps the marinade cling to the chicken and thickens the sauce slightly.
- 4 cups napa or green cabbage, shredded: Provides a crisp, tender base with vibrant color.
- 1 cup carrots, julienned: Adds a sweet crunch and bright orange contrast.
- 3 green onions, sliced: Sprinkle into the dish for freshness and mild onion flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the stir-fry with aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated: Offers a warm, spicy zest that elevates the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Sesame seeds and extra green onions for garnish (optional): Adds a beautiful finishing touch and welcome texture contrast.
How to Make Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by tossing the thinly sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of pepper in a medium bowl. This step is key because it tenderizes the chicken and creates a light coating that locks in moisture while ensuring a silky finish once cooked. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes — just enough time for flavors to meld without waiting around.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
While your chicken marinates, whisk together the remaining tablespoon of soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil in a small bowl. This blend of sauces forms the heart of your stir-fry’s irresistible glaze, perfectly balancing salty, sweet, and nutty notes. Set it aside until the veggies and chicken are ready.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken turns golden brown and is fully cooked through. Then, remove it from the pan and set it aside, giving your chicken a chance to rest and lock in those juices.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add a splash more oil if needed, then toss in minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry these fragrant aromatics for about 30 seconds or until their captivating scents rise, creating an inviting base for the vegetables.
Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Next, add the shredded cabbage and julienned carrots to the pan. Stir-fry them for 3 to 4 minutes until they become just tender yet retain a satisfying crunch. Avoid overcooking so your cabbage stays crisp-tender, which really elevates the texture contrast in this recipe.
Step 6: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then pour in the prepared sauce mixture. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring every bite is coated with that glossy, flavorful sauce. Let it cook for another 2 minutes, giving the sauce a chance to thicken slightly and all the flavors to harmonize beautifully.
How to Serve Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your dish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and extra green onions not only adds visual appeal but also introduces an additional crunch and burst of fresh, vibrant flavor. These simple touches make your stir-fry pop and feel restaurant-quality at home.
Side Dishes
This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe shines when paired with steaming bowls of jasmine rice or silky noodles, which soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter meal or added texture, a crisp cucumber salad or simple steamed greens complement the savory stir-fry beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this stir-fry over fluffy quinoa or cauliflower rice for a modern twist, or pile it into lettuce cups for a fun, hand-held meal that’s perfect for informal gatherings. You could even turn it into a filling for savory crepes if you’re feeling adventurous and want to impress guests with something unexpected!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The stir-fry will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for convenient, flavorful lunches or quick dinners midweek.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish if needed, although the cabbage’s texture may soften slightly after thawing. Pack the cooled stir-fry into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For the best flavor and texture, reheat your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe in a hot skillet or wok over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce becomes too thick. This helps revive the crispness of the vegetables and warms everything evenly without drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cabbage in this recipe?
Absolutely! Napa cabbage or green cabbage both work wonderfully, but you can also experiment with savoy or even bok choy, keeping in mind the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the vegetable’s density.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken for firm tofu or a plant-based chicken alternative. Just press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then follow the same marinating and cooking steps for great results.
How spicy is this dish?
As written, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe is mild and family-friendly. If you love heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil during the cooking process for a spicy kick.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a meal prep?
Definitely! This stir-fry keeps its flavor well and reheats nicely, making it ideal for meal prepping. Keep the sauce and cooked rice separate until ready to serve for the freshest experience.
What’s the best cut of chicken for stir-fry?
Both chicken breast and thighs work well here. Breasts are leaner and cook quickly, while thighs offer a juicier, richer flavor. Choose based on your preference and what you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that’s quick yet packed with flavor, wholesome but never boring, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe is a must-try. It captures the essence of home-cooked Chinese cuisine with fresh ingredients and an easy, approachable method. Gather your ingredients, turn up the heat on your skillet, and enjoy the comforting satisfaction of a stir-fry that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. You’re going to love it!
Print
Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stirfrying
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A quick and flavorful Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry featuring tender chicken breast and crisp vegetables tossed in a savory soy-based sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight meal, this dish combines vibrant textures and traditional Asian sauces for an easy-to-make dinner.
Ingredients
Protein Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Pinch of pepper
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 4 cups napa or green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Oils and Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Extra green onions (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the thinly sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of pepper. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes to develop flavor and tenderize the meat.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed, then quickly sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the shredded cabbage and julienned carrots to the pan. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp, maintaining a nice texture.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and toss thoroughly to coat. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Serve hot alongside steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil during the stir-fry step.
- This dish works well with ground chicken or tofu as a substitute for the meat.
- Avoid overcooking the cabbage to keep it crisp-tender and maintain its fresh texture.
