Flavorful Chinese Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry

This Chinese Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and a medley of vibrant vegetables. The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates an irresistible umami flavor, while sesame oil adds a rich, nutty aroma. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this stir-fry can be made in under 30 minutes and served with steamed rice for a complete, satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 4 cups cabbage, chopped (Napa or green cabbage works well)
• 1 large carrot, julienned
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice the chicken: Thinly slice the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season lightly with salt and pepper and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Make the stir-fry sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), sesame oil, rice vinegar, and cornstarch (if using). Stir well and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

1. Heat the oil: In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the chicken: Add the thinly sliced chicken to the hot oil and stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Take the chicken out of the pan and place it on a separate dish.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

1. Heat more oil: In the same wok or skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Cook the garlic and ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the vegetables: Toss in the chopped cabbage, julienned carrot, and sliced bell pepper (if using). Stir-fry the vegetables for 4-5 minutes, or until they begin to soften but still retain some crispness.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Return the chicken: Add the cooked chicken back into the wok with the vegetables.
2. Add the sauce: Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce into the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.
3. Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Remove the stir-fry from the heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
2. Serve hot: Serve the chicken cabbage stir-fry with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

This Chinese Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a fast, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a delicious savory sauce, it’s a dish that will satisfy your cravings for a quick and tasty meal. Enjoy it on its own or with your favorite sides for a wholesome, homemade dinner that’s full of flavor!