Looking for a meal that’s quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor? This Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is your answer! Tender, juicy chicken pairs perfectly with crisp vegetables and a savory sauce that’s packed with umami goodness. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option, this dish will leave you feeling satisfied without weighing you down. The best part? It’s ready in just 25 minutes, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s easy to customize add your favorite veggies, adjust the spice level, or swap in tofu or shrimp for a fun twist. Give this simple stir-fry a try and enjoy a homemade meal that’s both nutritious and delicious!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups cabbage, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- Green onions for garnish
Directions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, and a pinch of black pepper. Add diced chicken breast, toss to coat, and let marinate for 10–15 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: In another bowl, mix the remaining 1 tbsp soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), black pepper, salt, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and cornstarch slurry. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Melt the butter, then add the marinated chicken. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add more butter if needed. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add cabbage, bell pepper, and carrot. Stir-fry for 5–6 minutes, keeping the veggies crisp.
- Combine and Add Sauce: Return the chicken to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir to coat. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Final Touches: Adjust seasoning if needed, garnish with green onions, and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 275 kcal | Servings: 4
Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry: A Quick, Healthy, and Flavorful Meal
Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a delicious and nutritious dish that brings together tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and a medley of vibrant vegetables in a savory sauce. This meal is not only quick to prepare but also highly versatile, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Unlike heavy, carb-laden dishes, this stir-fry offers a light yet satisfying option that can be enjoyed on its own or served over rice, noodles, or even quinoa. With a combination of lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and a balanced sauce, this dish provides both taste and health benefits in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to love this Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry. Whether you’re new to stir-frying or an experienced home cook, this dish is a game-changer in the kitchen.
✔️ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
✔️ Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins from fresh ingredients.
✔️ Low-Carb & Gluten-Free Options: Can be adjusted for dietary preferences by swapping out ingredients.
✔️ Budget-Friendly: Uses simple and affordable ingredients that are easy to find.
✔️ Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or swap chicken for tofu, shrimp, or beef.
If you’re someone who enjoys meals that are easy to throw together but don’t compromise on flavor, this stir-fry is a must-try!
Health Benefits of Chicken and Cabbage
This dish is not only delicious but also full of nutritional benefits. Let’s break down the two star ingredients: chicken and cabbage.
Chicken: A Lean Protein Powerhouse
Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain muscle mass while keeping calorie intake in check. It’s also rich in essential vitamins and minerals like B vitamins (B6 and B12), phosphorus, and selenium, which support metabolism, bone health, and immune function.
Since this recipe uses a stir-fry method rather than deep-frying, it helps retain the chicken’s natural juices while keeping it light and healthy.
Cabbage: A Superfood for Digestion and Immunity
Cabbage is often an underrated vegetable, but it’s packed with incredible health benefits. It is:
✅ High in fiber, promoting good digestion and gut health.
✅ Rich in antioxidants, helping to fight inflammation and support overall well-being.
✅ Low in calories, making it a great ingredient for weight management.
✅ Full of vitamins C and K, which boost immunity and support bone health.
When stir-fried, cabbage retains its crunch while soaking up all the delicious flavors from the sauce, making it a perfect addition to this dish.
The Secret to the Perfect Stir-Fry
To achieve the best results when making Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry, here are some helpful tips:
1. Use High Heat
A good stir-fry is all about cooking quickly over high heat. This method helps lock in the flavors while keeping the vegetables crisp and the chicken juicy. A wok or a large skillet works best for even heat distribution.
2. Prep All Ingredients in Advance
Stir-frying is a fast cooking method, so having all your ingredients chopped and ready to go before you start is crucial. This includes marinating the chicken, slicing the vegetables, and preparing the sauce.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Cooking too much at once can cause the ingredients to steam rather than stir-fry. To get that perfect texture, cook the chicken separately first, set it aside, and then stir-fry the vegetables before combining everything together.
4. Balance the Flavors
The key to a delicious stir-fry is the sauce. The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and spices creates a rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavor. You can adjust the seasoning based on your preference add more spice with chili flakes or a touch of sweetness with a dash of honey.
5. Customize with Extra Vegetables
Feel free to add more vegetables to your stir-fry for extra color and nutrition. Some great additions include:
- Broccoli – Adds crunch and a boost of vitamins.
- Snap Peas – Gives a natural sweetness and crisp texture.
- Mushrooms – Absorbs the sauce beautifully for extra umami flavor.
- Zucchini – Light and refreshing, perfect for summer stir-fries.
What to Serve with Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
This stir-fry is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
🍚 Steamed White or Brown Rice – A classic choice that soaks up the sauce perfectly.
🥢 Noodles (Lo Mein or Rice Noodles) – Adds extra texture and makes it a heartier meal.
🥗 Cauliflower Rice – A great low-carb alternative.
🥣 Quinoa – A protein-packed grain that complements the dish well.
🥬 Lettuce Wraps – For a fresh, crunchy twist, serve the stir-fry in crisp lettuce cups.
If you prefer a lighter meal, enjoy it on its own it’s packed with enough protein and fiber to keep you full!
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. Here are some variations to try:
- Make it Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh and use a plant-based soy sauce.
- Try a Different Protein: Replace chicken with shrimp, beef, or pork for a different take.
- Go Spicy: Add extra crushed red pepper flakes, sriracha, or fresh chili peppers for a kick.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all sauces are gluten-free.
- Boost the Fiber: Add more veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snow peas for added crunch and nutrients.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
This stir-fry is great for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.
🕒 Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm in a pan over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it for about 1-2 minutes, but stir halfway for even heating.
🧊 Freezing:
- If you want to freeze it, store the cooked chicken and vegetables separately from the sauce.
- When ready to eat, defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan with fresh sauce.
Conclusion:
Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a meal-prep option, or a healthier alternative to takeout, this dish is an excellent choice.
By using fresh ingredients, a well-balanced sauce, and the right stir-fry technique, you can create a meal that is delicious, satisfying, and packed with wholesome goodness. Plus, with so many ways to customize it, you’ll never get bored of making it!