If there’s one dish that can turn an ordinary weeknight into a flavorful feast, it’s a stir-fry. Quick to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to satisfy, this Stir-Fried Chicken with Cabbage and Garlic Rice is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something delicious and comforting. The juicy pieces of chicken are stir-fried until golden, tossed with tender yet slightly crisp cabbage, and seasoned with garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of ginger. Pair it with fragrant garlic rice, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s hearty, wholesome, and brimming with flavor. The beauty of stir-fry meals is how they balance nutrition, speed, and taste. You don’t need hours in the kitchen or fancy equipment—just a hot pan, fresh ingredients, and a few minutes of your time. This dish is light enough not to weigh you down, but filling enough to satisfy hungry appetites after a long day. It’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and versatile enough to be customized with whatever vegetables you have on hand.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Rice:
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2 cups (400 g) cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
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4 cloves garlic, finely minced
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2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
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Salt, to taste
For the Stir-Fried Chicken and Cabbage:
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1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
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3 cups (250 g) cabbage, thinly shredded
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1 medium carrot, julienned (optional for color and sweetness)
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1 small onion, sliced thin
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced (optional)
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3 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tbsp oyster sauce
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1 tsp sesame oil
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½ tsp ground black pepper
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2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
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Green onions or sesame seeds, for garnish
Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Garlic Rice: Heat vegetable oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the cooked rice, breaking apart clumps, and season lightly with salt. Fry for 3–4 minutes until heated through and infused with garlic flavor. Set aside and keep warm.
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Cook the Chicken: In a wok or large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add a touch more oil if needed. Stir in onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking for about 1 minute. Add cabbage and carrot, tossing quickly so the vegetables remain crisp-tender.
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Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until everything is well-coated and heated through.
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Serve: Spoon garlic rice onto plates, top with stir-fried chicken and cabbage, and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Nutrients (per serving, approx. 4 servings)
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Calories: 480
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Protein: 30 g
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Carbohydrates: 52 g
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Fat: 16 g
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Fiber: 4 g
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Sodium: 870 mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is the definition of weeknight convenience: it’s fast, easy, and requires only everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The garlic rice elevates plain steamed rice into something fragrant and flavorful, while the stir-fried chicken and cabbage bring savory depth and freshness. Unlike takeout, you control the ingredients and the level of seasoning, so it’s healthier without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder with minimal cleanup—something every busy cook can appreciate.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish
Stir-frying has its roots in Chinese cuisine and has spread across Asia as a versatile cooking method. The technique was designed to cook ingredients quickly at high heat, preserving both texture and nutrients. Dishes like this chicken and cabbage stir-fry reflect that tradition while also adapting to local tastes and home kitchens worldwide. Garlic rice, on the other hand, is a staple in Filipino households and across many Asian cuisines, where rice is the foundation of almost every meal. By combining stir-fry with garlic rice, this dish bridges cultures, creating a comforting meal that feels familiar no matter where you’re from.
Ingredient Spotlight
Cabbage might seem humble, but it’s one of the most versatile and affordable vegetables out there, offering a gentle sweetness and satisfying crunch when cooked. Chicken breast or thighs are the protein of choice here, lean yet filling, and they cook quickly, making them perfect for stir-fry. Garlic is the real flavor powerhouse, used generously in both the rice and the stir-fry to bring warmth and depth. Soy sauce and oyster sauce provide that umami punch, while sesame oil adds a nutty aroma that instantly makes the dish feel complete.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply toss the stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist. The garlic rice reheats well in the microwave or pan, though for best results, re-fry it quickly to bring back its aroma. Freezing isn’t ideal for cabbage-based stir-fries since the texture softens too much once thawed, but the chicken and rice can handle it if stored separately.
Common Variations to Try
This recipe is endlessly adaptable. You can swap cabbage for bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas if that’s what you have on hand. Add a fried egg on top for extra protein and richness. For a spicier kick, toss in some chili flakes or sliced fresh chilies while stir-frying. Swap chicken for shrimp, beef strips, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The garlic rice can also be customized with a splash of soy sauce or mixed with peas and corn for a fried rice feel.
Pairing Recommendations
This stir-fry already includes protein, vegetables, and carbs, making it a complete meal on its own. However, you can serve it with a light side of cucumber salad, pickled radish, or miso soup for extra freshness. For drinks, green tea or a light lager pairs beautifully, while a sparkling citrus drink works for a non-alcoholic option.
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Health Benefits
Beyond being tasty, this dish is balanced and nourishing. Chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle repair and energy, while cabbage is rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants that support digestion and immunity. Garlic is known for its heart-healthy and anti-inflammatory properties, and using stir-fry as the cooking method means the vegetables retain most of their nutrients. Pairing it with rice ensures energy-sustaining carbohydrates, making this a well-rounded dinner that fuels both body and mind.
Conclusion
Stir-Fried Chicken with Cabbage and Garlic Rice is proof that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can create a meal that’s satisfying, flavorful, and ready in less than 30 minutes. It’s a quick weeknight favorite that you’ll want to make again and again, and because it’s so adaptable, it never gets boring. Next time you’re pressed for time but craving something hearty and homey, this dish will hit the spot.