When I first tried my neighbor’s chicken cabbage stir fry, it felt like a colorful explosion of flavors dancing on my palate. The mesmerizing aroma of garlic mingling with ginger instantly transported me to a bustling street market alive with the sights and sounds of sizzling woks. This isn’t just another recipe; it’s my go-to solution for busy weeknights when I crave something healthy yet satisfying.
With its vibrant mix of tender chicken and crisp vegetables, this dish not only nourishes the body but also satisfies the soul. The beauty of this chicken cabbage stir fry is its simplicity—everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner to impress guests or a delightful meal prep option, this recipe adapts effortlessly to every occasion. Come join me in the kitchen and discover how to create this nourishing, flavor-packed dish that celebrates the joy of homemade food!
Why is this cabbage stir fry recipe special?
Quick and Easy: This vibrant recipe ensures a delicious dinner without the hassle, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish.
One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup as everything cooks together, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Healthful Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and colorful veggies, this dish is nutritious and satisfying.
Customizable Flavor: You can easily adjust the seasonings or swap ingredients like chicken for tofu, making it flexible to your taste and dietary needs.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether serving family or guests, this dish always garners compliments. For more quick meal ideas, check out our one-pan recipes.
Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
• Chicken Breast – Lean protein source; you can swap it for skinless chicken thighs or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent for the sauce; arrowroot powder is a great substitute if needed.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavors with acidity; feel free to use lime juice as an alternative.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides a savory umami flavor with less sodium; use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free cabbage stir fry recipe.
• Ground Ginger – Adds warmth and spice; you could also choose fresh ginger for a more intense flavor.
• Chicken Broth – Gives moisture and depth to the sauce; vegetable broth works as a perfect alternative for vegans.
• Vegetable Oil – Essential for sautéing; olive or sesame oil make for tasty substitutes.
• Shallot – Offers a mild onion flavor; yellow onion works well as a replacement.
• Bell Pepper – Adds color and sweetness; feel free to use any color or even poblano for variety.
• Shredded Cabbage – This key vegetable promotes crunch and nutrition; Savoy or Napa cabbage are great alternatives.
• Carrot – Contributes sweetness and texture; consider zucchini for a lower-carb option.
• Frozen Peas – Adds bite and a hint of sweetness; fresh peas can be a delightful swap if you have them on hand.
• Scallion – Used for garnish and extra mild onion flavor; chives are a suitable alternative.
• Sesame Seeds – Optional for garnish, enhancing texture and visual appeal.
How to Make Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry
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Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, lemon juice, soy sauce, ground ginger, and chicken broth. Whisk everything together until smooth and well-blended. This will form a delightful coating for your chicken!
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Marinate the Chicken: Dice your chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and add it to the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to soak up all those delicious flavors, ensuring each bite is bursting with taste.
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Heat the Skillet: Warm up 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough for the chicken to brown nicely; look for a shimmer on the oil before proceeding.
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Cook the Chicken: Drain the marinated chicken and reserve the marinade. Add the chicken pieces to the hot skillet, stir-frying for about 4 minutes, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Don’t forget to keep it moving for that perfect texture!
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Sauté the Aromatics: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil along with the shallot. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
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Add the Veggies: Toss in the bell pepper, shredded cabbage, and carrot to the skillet. Sauté the mixture for about 4 minutes until the cabbage starts to wilt and everything is vibrant and tender.
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Combine and Finish: Add the reserved marinade and the cooked chicken back to the skillet, along with the thawed peas. Stir everything together until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
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Serve: Dish out the stir fry immediately, garnished with fresh scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra pop. Serve it over rice or noodles if you like!
Optional: For added flavor, drizzle some chili oil over the top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cabbage Stir Fry
Fridge: Store leftover chicken cabbage stir fry in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Room Temperature: For best quality, don’t leave the stir fry out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent food safety issues.
Expert Tips for Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry
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Heat Matters: Ensure your skillet is adequately preheated to achieve that perfect browning on the chicken without steaming it.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid adding too much chicken at once; overcrowding can lower the pan’s temperature, making the chicken tough instead of tender.
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Marination Time: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step for the best cabbage stir fry recipe!
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Veggie Variability: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables as you please; fresh produce keeps the dish exciting and nutritious.
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Sauce Consistency: Adjust the soy sauce to your taste preference, but remember that it can impact the dish’s overall sodium content.
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Garnish Wisely: For added flair, don’t skip the sesame seeds and scallions; they enhance both the visual appeal and flavor profile.
Make Ahead Options
This chicken cabbage stir fry recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights and perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken and chop all the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and crunch. To ensure quality, refrigerate the sauce and chicken mixture; this prevents flavor seepage and keeps everything juicy. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the skillet as directed, sauté the aromatics, add the veggies, and finish with the marinated chicken. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal that tastes just as fresh as if you made it from scratch!
Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish! Let your taste buds guide you to a delightful twist.
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Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or marinated tofu for a vegetarian option. Both additions offer unique flavors and textures that pair well with the sauce.
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Vegetable Variety: Change up the veggies based on what you have on hand. Broccoli, asparagus, or vibrant snap peas add extra color and crunch.
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Spicy Kick: Enhance the flavor by adding chili flakes or a dash of Sriracha. This simple addition warms everything up and wakes up your taste buds!
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Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil before serving for a burst of freshness. The herbs elevate the dish with vibrant flavors and a lovely aroma.
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Noodle Upgrade: Serve the stir fry over whole grain noodles instead of rice for a hearty alternative. This will add even more texture and flavor dimensions to your meal.
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Citrus Twist: Drizzle in a little orange or lime juice before serving. The bright acidity balances out the savory components and adds a refreshing zing.
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Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts or cashews on top for a satisfying crunch. This addition brings not only texture but also a nutty richness to the dish.
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Creamy Element: For a luscious twist, stir in a spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter while cooking. This will create a rich sauce that envelops the chicken and veggies beautifully.
What to Serve with Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry?
Enhance your vibrant stir fry with delicious sides that create a well-rounded meal.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The light and fragrant rice absorbs flavors beautifully, making each bite even more satisfying. It pairs perfectly with the savory sauce!
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Quinoa Salad: A nutritious twist with added texture, this salad brings a nutty flavor that complements the chicken and crisp veggies. Toss in some fresh herbs for a bright finish.
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Steamed Broccoli: Tender yet crisp, steamed broccoli offers a satisfying crunch while providing an additional nutritious element to the meal. It’s also a great vessel for the delicious stir fry sauce!
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Crispy Spring Rolls: Filled with vibrant vegetables and all the umami, these rolls bring delightful crunch and a fun dining experience. Serve with a dipping sauce for extra flavor.
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Garlic Noodles: Juicy, garlicky noodles deliver a rich taste that balances the dish’s lightness. They can soak up all that savory goodness from your stir fry!
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Mango Salad: Sweet ripe mango mixed with greens adds a refreshing touch and a burst of flavor that beautifully contrasts the savory elements of the stir fry.
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Chilled Green Tea: This soothing beverage cleanses the palate and pairs wonderfully with a flavorful meal. It adds calming vibes to your dining experience while complementing the lightness of your dish.
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Lemon Sorbet: Finish on a sweet note with a refreshing dessert. The zesty, tangy sorbet cleanses the palate and wraps up your meal with a delightful touch.
Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe FAQs
What type of cabbage is best for stir fry?
I recommend using green cabbage for its crunch and ability to hold up well during cooking. However, Savoy or Napa cabbage also works beautifully for added sweetness and tenderness. Just look for heads with crisp, unblemished leaves!
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover chicken cabbage stir fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure that it cools down completely before sealing to maintain its freshness. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Can I freeze chicken cabbage stir fry?
Absolutely! To freeze, divide the stir fry into individual portions and store them in airtight containers or freezer bags. Avoid overpacking them so there’s room for expansion. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on medium heat in a skillet.
What if my stir fry sauce isn’t thickening?
If your sauce isn’t thickening to your liking, there are a couple of solutions! First, ensure that you’re cooking the sauce long enough for the cornstarch to activate. If it’s still not thickening, you can mix a bit more cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and stir it in, cooking for a few additional minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten intolerance?
Yes, it is! Just make sure to substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free alternatives like tamari or coconut aminos. Both options will provide that beloved umami flavor without the gluten, making this chicken cabbage stir fry recipe delicious and safe for anyone with dietary restrictions.
What can I serve with this stir fry?
This chicken cabbage stir fry is quite versatile! You can serve it over a bed of cooked rice, quinoa, or rice noodles for a satisfying meal. If you’re counting carbs, consider pairing it with cauliflower rice or even enjoying it on its own for a lighter option. The more, the merrier!
Delicious Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe for Quick Healthy Meals
Equipment
- - Large skillet
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
- 1 pound Chicken Breast Can substitute with skinless chicken thighs or tofu
- 2 tablespoons Cornstarch Arrowroot powder can be used as a substitute
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Lime juice can be used as an alternative
- 1 cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce Tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free option
- 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger Fresh ginger can be used for more intense flavor
- 1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth for vegan option
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Olive or sesame oil work well as substitutes
- 1 medium Shallot Yellow onion is a good replacement
- 1 cup Bell Pepper Any color or poblano for variety
- 4 cups Shredded Cabbage Savoy or Napa cabbage are good alternatives
- 1 medium Carrot Zucchini is a lower-carb alternative
- 1 cup Frozen Peas Fresh peas can be a delightful swap
- 2 tablespoons Scallion Chives are a suitable alternative
- 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds Optional for garnish
Instructions
How to Make Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, lemon juice, soy sauce, ground ginger, and chicken broth. Whisk until smooth.
- Dice chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and add to the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Drain marinated chicken and reserve marinade. Stir-fry chicken for about 4 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove chicken and add shallot to the skillet. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until softened.
- Add bell pepper, shredded cabbage, and carrot to the skillet. Sauté for about 4 minutes.
- Add reserved marinade and chicken back to the skillet. Stir until heated and sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds. Serve over rice or noodles if desired.