Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich vegetables, it’s a wholesome choice for those mindful of their diet.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken: Thinly sliced boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs.
• Cabbage: Shredded green cabbage adds crunch and absorbs the flavorful sauce.
• Carrots: Julienned for a touch of sweetness and color.
• Garlic & Ginger: Essential aromatics for authentic flavor.
• Green Onions: Provide a fresh, sharp finish.
• Soy Sauce & Oyster Sauce: Form the umami-rich base of the stir-fry sauce.
• Cornstarch: Used to tenderize the chicken and achieve a velvety texture.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty depth when drizzled at the end.
• Vegetable Oil: Suitable for high-heat stir-frying.
• White Pepper & Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Introduce gentle heat and warmth.

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine sliced chicken with cornstarch, a tablespoon of soy sauce, and a pinch of white pepper. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to tenderize and absorb flavors.

2. Prepare the Sauce: Mix together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a teaspoon of sesame oil in a separate bowl. Adjust to taste if necessary.

3. Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until it’s no longer pink, approximately 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

4. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

5. Add Vegetables: Incorporate shredded cabbage and julienned carrots into the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch.

6. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, pour in the prepared sauce, and toss everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are well-coated and heated through.

7. Finish and Serve: Drizzle with a bit more sesame oil and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or thinly sliced beef.
• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for added variety.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

What type of cabbage is best for this stir-fry?

Green cabbage is commonly used, but Napa cabbage works well too, offering a milder flavor and softer texture.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with firm tofu or a medley of your favorite vegetables.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure the oyster sauce is gluten-free or use a suitable substitute.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating helps tenderize the chicken and enhances flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the vegetables and marinate the chicken ahead of time to streamline cooking.

What can I serve alongside this stir-fry?

Steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles pair excellently with this dish.

How do I prevent the vegetables from becoming too soft?

Stir-fry the vegetables over high heat and avoid overcooking to maintain their crispness.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the vegetables may become mushy upon thawing.

What oil is best for stir-frying?

Use oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for optimal results.

How can I add more flavor to the sauce?

Incorporate ingredients like hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, or a touch of honey to enhance the sauce’s complexity.

Conclusion

This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a flavorful, nutritious, and versatile dish that’s sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or something that can be easily customized, this recipe delivers on both fronts. Enjoy!