Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry: A Quick and Nutritious Delight

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a delicious, healthy dish that combines tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and a savory sauce. This simple, one-pan meal is packed with flavor and comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a flavorful addition to your meal prep routine. Below, we’ll explore the step-by-step method to create this delightful dish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
• 4 cups cabbage, shredded (green or Napa cabbage works best)
• 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced or grated
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (vegetable, peanut, or sesame oil)

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
• 2 tablespoons water or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch, dissolved in 1 tablespoon water

Optional Garnish:

• Sliced green onions
• Toasted sesame seeds

Equipment Needed

• Wok or large skillet
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Slice the Chicken: Thinly slice the chicken breast or thighs against the grain for tender pieces. Set aside.
2. Chop the Vegetables: Shred the cabbage, julienne the carrot, and slice the onion thinly. Mince the garlic and ginger.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar (if using), water, and cornstarch mixture. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the wok.
2. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds to release their fragrance.
3. Add the sliced onion and carrot. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Cabbage

1. Add the shredded cabbage to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, tossing frequently, until the cabbage begins to wilt but retains a slight crunch.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the wok.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
3. Stir everything together, ensuring the sauce evenly coats all the ingredients. Let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the stir-fry from the heat.
2. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry over steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a hearty meal.
• Pair it with a side of dumplings or spring rolls for an authentic Chinese-inspired dinner.
• For a low-carb option, enjoy it on its own or serve with cauliflower rice.

Tips and Variations

• Use Different Vegetables: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for a colorful and nutrient-packed dish.
• Spice It Up: Add red chili flakes or a splash of chili oil to give the stir-fry a spicy kick.
• Alternative Proteins: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef for variety.
• Prep Ahead: Chop the vegetables and mix the sauce ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Its combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory sauce ensures it will become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish offers a perfect balance of taste and nutrition that’s sure to satisfy.