Chicken Cabbage Stir-fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the creamy richness of devilled eggs with the smoky, savory flavor of double-smoked bacon.
• Adds freshness with crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes for a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
• A fun, bite-sized appetizer that’s easy to prepare and always a hit at gatherings, from casual brunches to formal events.
• Customizable with different toppings like avocado, pickled onions, or spicy jalapeños for added flair.
• Perfect for meal prep, as they can be made ahead, refrigerated, and served fresh without any fuss.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 280
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Vegetables:

• 3 cups cabbage, shredded (green or Napa cabbage)
• 1 cup carrots, julienned or thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ cup snap peas or green beans (optional)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Stir-Fry Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar

For Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

1. Slice the Chicken: Thinly slice the chicken breast or thighs against the grain for tender pieces.
2. Marinate: In a bowl, combine the chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Mix well and let it marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

Prepare the Vegetables

3. Shred the Cabbage: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to shred the cabbage into thin strips.
4. Slice the Vegetables: Julienne or thinly slice the carrots, bell pepper, and any other vegetables you’re using. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.

Make the Stir-Fry Sauce

5. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili paste (if using), and honey. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Cook the Chicken

6. Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil.
7. Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

8. Sauté Aromatics: Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Sauté the garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
9. Stir-Fry Vegetables: Add the carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, keeping the vegetables crisp-tender.
10. Add Cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage and cook for another 2 minutes, tossing frequently until slightly softened.

Combine and Serve

11. Add Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the stir-fry sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
12. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve immediately.

Ingredient Background

• Chicken: Chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, while thighs are juicier and more forgiving in stir-fry dishes.
• Cabbage: A budget-friendly vegetable that’s rich in fiber and vitamins, cabbage absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
• Soy Sauce: Provides umami and saltiness, forming the base of the stir-fry sauce.
• Oyster Sauce: Adds depth and a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors.
• Hoisin Sauce: Enhances the sauce with a rich, slightly sweet, and tangy profile.

Technique Tips

• Even Slicing: Cut all ingredients into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
• High Heat: Cook over medium-high heat to achieve a quick sear and vibrant vegetables.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid steaming instead of searing.
• Crisp Vegetables: Keep the vegetables slightly crisp to retain their texture and nutrients.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Bowl Style: Serve the stir-fry over steamed rice or quinoa for a hearty, complete meal.
• Noodle Stir-Fry: Toss the chicken and vegetables with cooked lo mein or rice noodles for a noodle-based dish.
• Lettuce Wraps: Use the stir-fry as a filling for crisp lettuce cups for a low-carb option.

Additional Tips for Success

• Prep Ingredients First: Stir-frying happens quickly, so have all ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking.
• Adjust the Heat: Add more chili paste or sriracha for a spicier stir-fry, or leave it out for a milder flavor.
• Double the Sauce: If you prefer extra sauce for serving, double the stir-fry sauce ingredients.

Recipe Variations

• Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry: Substitute chicken with thinly sliced beef, such as flank or sirloin.
• Shrimp Stir-Fry: Use shrimp instead of chicken, cooking them just until pink and opaque.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable-based oyster sauce.
• Peanut Sauce: Swap the stir-fry sauce with a creamy peanut sauce for a nutty twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked stir-fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Low-Sodium Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce and hoisin sauce to reduce salt content.
• More Veggies: Add broccoli, zucchini, or bok choy for a greater variety of nutrients.
• Whole Grains: Serve over brown rice or quinoa for a fiber-rich base.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinners: Serve alongside steamed rice and a side of dumplings or spring rolls for an Asian-inspired feast.
• Meal Prep: Divide into individual containers with rice or noodles for grab-and-go lunches.
• Potluck Dish: Present in a large serving bowl with tongs for easy self-serve at gatherings.

Special Equipment

• Wok or Large Skillet: Essential for even cooking and tossing the stir-fry.
• Tongs: Handy for turning chicken and tossing vegetables.
• Grater: Perfect for quickly grating fresh ginger.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Yes, pre-shredded cabbage saves time and works well in this recipe.

2. What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
Hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a touch of sugar can be used as substitutes.

3. How can I make this spicier?
Add more chili paste, sriracha, or diced fresh chili peppers to the sauce.

4. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, but cook them quickly to avoid sogginess.

5. How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?
Slice the chicken thinly and cook over high heat for just a few minutes per side.

6. Can I add nuts?
Yes, toasted cashews or peanuts add a delightful crunch to the dish.

7. Is this dish gluten-free?
Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and check that other sauces are gluten-free.

8. How do I keep the cabbage from becoming too soft?
Cook the cabbage for just 2 minutes to retain its crunch and texture.

Conclusion

Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick, healthy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with lean protein, crisp vegetables, and a savory, flavorful sauce, it’s a versatile recipe that can be tailored to your preferences. Whether you enjoy it over rice, noodles, or on its own, this stir-fry delivers a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes. Its simplicity and vibrant flavors make it ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even casual gatherings. The combination of tender chicken and fresh cabbage ensures a balance of textures, while the customizable sauce lets you adjust sweetness, heat, or saltiness to suit your taste. Try it tonight for a flavorful and nourishing dish that’s sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!

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