Chinese Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry

Chinese Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry is a delightful and colorful dish that balances the savory flavors of chicken with the crisp tenderness of fresh vegetables. This recipe allows you to whip up a quick, nutritious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With vibrant colors and aromatic spices, it promises to tantalize your taste buds while providing a healthy and satisfying dining experience.

Why Make This Chinese Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry

This Chinese Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry is more than just a quick meal; it’s a showcase of complementary textures and flavors. Tender chicken breast combined with crunchy cabbage and sweet bell peppers creates a balance of protein and veggies that is both nourishing and delicious. The stir-frying method locks in the fresh taste and nutrients, making this dish a great choice for maintaining a healthy diet. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you want something delicious but don’t have much time to spare.

How to Make Chinese Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry

Creating this mouthwatering stir-fry is simple and fun! By preparing your ingredients beforehand, you streamline the cooking process, helping you achieve that wonderfully quick stir-fry success. Utilize fresh ingredients to enhance flavor, and you’ll have a dish that’s not only tasty but visually appealing.

Ingredients:

• 300g chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons neutral oil (canola or vegetable)
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Directions:

1. Prepare all ingredients in advance by slicing the chicken and vegetables and measuring sauces.
2. In a bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Set aside to marinate.
3. Heat 1–2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
4. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Let it sear for 1 minute before stir-frying until golden and just cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
5. In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Stir-fry the sliced onions for 1 minute, then add the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add the sliced bell peppers and shredded cabbage. Stir-fry until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 3–4 minutes.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add the remaining soy sauce and oyster sauce. Stir well for 2–3 minutes until everything is evenly coated and glossy.
8. Drizzle with sesame oil and top with chopped green onions and optional sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 300
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 680mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 15g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 29g

How to Serve Chinese Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry

This dish is versatile and can be served on its own for a light meal, or accompanied by steamed rice or noodles for an even heartier option. Add a side of egg rolls or spring rolls for an authentic Chinese dining experience. Garnish with extra green onions or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a kick!

How to Store Chinese Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to best retain the dish’s texture and flavor. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to help rehydrate the stir-fry if needed.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chinese Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry

• Prep is Key: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a quick process, and you want everything to cook evenly.
• High Heat: Use high heat to achieve that desirable "wok hei" flavor, which adds a smoky essence to your stir-fry.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Work in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the ingredients; this ensures you get that lovely sear on the chicken and vegetables.
• Customize: Feel free to substitute with other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots based on your preference.

Delicious Variations

• Add More Protein: Try adding shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced chili peppers or a dash of sriracha for a spicy version.
• Different Sauces: Experiment with teriyaki sauce or hoisin sauce for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen chicken?
  Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before slicing and marinating.

• What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
  If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use soy sauce mixed with a bit of sugar or hoisin sauce for a similar sweetness and depth of flavor.

• Is this dish gluten-free?
  To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is also gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Chinese Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry is an easy and delicious recipe that highlights the beauty of home cooking. Packed with nutritious ingredients and flavors, it makes for a satisfying meal that caters to many diets. The combination of vibrant vegetables and tender chicken will surely delight your family and friends. So why not give it a try tonight? Share your results or any variations you make; I’d love to hear your cooking adventures!