Description
A quick and flavorful Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry that combines tender chicken strips with crunchy cabbage and a savory, slightly sweet sauce. This easy 25-minute recipe is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, offering a delicious balance of protein and vegetables with Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced
Vegetables
- 4 cups cabbage, thinly sliced (green or napa cabbage works well)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Oils & Sauces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or sesame oil (for stir-frying)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (optional, for heat)
Seasonings & Garnishes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts or thighs into thin strips to ensure quick and even cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the sliced chicken with salt and pepper to taste, setting the base flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable or sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced onions. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and aromatic.
- Add Vegetables: Add the thinly sliced cabbage and optional bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to soften slightly while retaining some crunch.
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce (if using), sesame oil, and chili paste or sriracha (if using) to create a balanced stir-fry sauce.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce with Veggies: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture, tossing to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Finish Stir-Frying: Continue to stir-fry for 1-2 more minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and fully glaze the chicken and vegetables.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or enjoy as a low-carb dish on its own.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili paste or sriracha to your liking.
- Use napa cabbage for a milder, sweeter flavor or green cabbage for a more robust taste.
- Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles to make it a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian