- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
- 4 cups shredded green or napa cabbage
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for umami)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (or honey)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
Optional Toppings:
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
- Crushed peanuts or cashews
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, red pepper flakes, and chicken broth. Set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Add the garlic and ginger, and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the shredded cabbage, red bell pepper, and carrot. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Combine and Simmer
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and toss to combine. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish.
- Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or crushed peanuts for added texture and flair.
- Enjoy every bite of this flavorful, healthy, and indulgent Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry!
- Perfect as a standalone meal or paired with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles for a complete spread.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger, garlic, and high-quality sauces make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Switch Proteins: Substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, tofu, or tempeh for variety.
- Add Veggies: Stir in mushrooms, snap peas, or bok choy for extra nutrition and depth of flavor.
- Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or skillet before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry combines the tender juiciness of chicken, the crunch of fresh vegetables, and the bold flavors of a savory-sweet stir-fry sauce into a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste, while the quick cooking time ensures consistent results. Whether served as a standalone meal or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity without requiring advanced cooking skills.
Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something light yet flavorful, looking for a way to elevate your weeknight dinners, or simply want to enjoy a homemade treat, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and customizable options make it a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, its versatility means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this stir-fry might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨