When you need a quick and nutritious meal that’s full of flavor, this Chinese Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry is the perfect solution. Loaded with tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and vibrant vegetables, all tossed in a savory, umami-rich sauce, this stir-fry is ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep. With the added benefit of being a low-carb, veggie-packed dish, it’s both satisfying and healthy. Best of all, it comes together in just under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450 grams) of boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped or thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds (optional, for sprinkling)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Thinly slice the boneless, skinless chicken breast and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Combine 2 tablespoons of water with cornstarch in a small bowl to make a slurry. Set this aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Warm 1 tablespoon of vegetable or sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the thinly sliced chicken and stir-fry for about 4–5 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chopped cabbage, julienned carrots, and sliced bell pepper (if using). Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3–4 minutes until they are tender-crisp but still vibrant in color.
4. Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and rice vinegar.
- Pour this sauce mixture into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables and stir to coat evenly.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, tossing it together with the vegetables and sauce.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes until everything is well coated and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the stir-fry from the heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a light, low-carb meal.
Conclusion:
This Chinese Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a deliciously simple dish that’s packed with fresh vegetables, lean protein, and savory flavors. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights but flavorful enough to impress any guest. The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and rice vinegar creates a tangy, savory sauce that brings the ingredients together beautifully. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions for an extra burst of flavor, and you’ve got a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying!