Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry: A Quick Delight for Dinner!

Name: Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 15 grams unsalted butter; 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, finely minced; 450 grams boneless skinless chicken breast, diced; 300 grams green cabbage, chopped; 1 medium bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 medium carrot, julienned; 30 millilitres soy sauce; 15 millilitres oyster sauce; 5 millilitres toasted sesame oil; 2 grams ground black pepper; 0.5 grams crushed red pepper flakes; 3 grams cornstarch mixed with 30 millilitres water

Author: Lora

Published: July 21, 2025

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Introduction to Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that weekday dinners can sometimes feel like a race against the clock. That’s why I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry. It’s a quick and delicious dish that doesn’t just satisfy your taste buds but also saves you precious time in the kitchen. Picture this: tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a flavor-packed sauce—all whipped together in about 30 minutes! It’s the perfect way to impress your family without burning out. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is everything you could want in a weeknight meal! It’s quick to whip up, taking just around 35 minutes from start to finish. The flavors dance together beautifully, making each bite a treat. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from fresh veggies, ensuring a healthy dinner that even picky eaters will love. Trust me, this recipe will become your new dinner-time hero!

Ingredients for Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Let’s gather our ingredients for this tasty feast! This recipe uses a colorful mix that not only makes your dish pop but also adds loads of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted Butter: Offers a rich base for sautéing, enhancing the overall flavor of the stir-fry.
Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth; it becomes translucent and aromatic as it cooks.
Garlic: A must-have for its bold and punchy flavor. Freshly minced is best for maximum aroma!
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: This lean protein is not only quick to cook but also absorbs the savory sauces well.
Green Cabbage: Offers crunch and a mild flavor, making it a staple in stir-fry dishes.
Bell Pepper: Adds vibrant color and a sweet crunch to balance the dish’s savory elements.
Carrot: Sweet and slightly crispy, it brings a lovely texture and bright color.
Soy Sauce: This salty and umami-packed sauce is the backbone of our flavor profile.
Oyster Sauce: Adds richness and complexity; it’s like the “secret sauce” of many Asian dishes!
Toasted Sesame Oil: Just a splash lends a warm, nutty aroma that elevates the stir-fry.
Ground Black Pepper: A simple way to add a little kick to your meal!
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the heat level according to your liking; it’s great for spice lovers.
Cornstarch mixed with water: This mixture thickens the sauce for a perfect coating that clings to all those delightful ingredients.

For those who might want to get creative, consider substituting other proteins like shrimp or tofu. You can also switch up the veggies; broccoli or snap peas work beautifully! If you’re looking for exact quantities, don’t worry, they’re listed at the end of the article for easy printing!

How to Make Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Prepare the Vegetables

First, let’s get the veggies ready! Slice the yellow onion and bell pepper thinly. Julienning the carrot adds a lovely crunch, so be sure to cut it into long, thin strips. Then, chop the green cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Lastly, finely mince the garlic. Having everything prepped helps the stir-fry come together smoothly. Trust me, it’s much easier when everything’s ready to go!

Cook the Chicken

Now, let’s move on to the chicken! Melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once it’s sizzling, add in the diced chicken breast. Sauté this for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want that chicken to be golden and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, transfer the chicken to a bowl and set it aside. How easy was that?

Sauté the Aromatics

Using the same skillet, toss in the sliced onion and minced garlic. Stir-fry these for 1 to 2 minutes until they become fragrant and the onion is slightly translucent. This step is where the magic begins! The aroma fills your kitchen, promising something delicious is on the way.

Add the Vegetables

Next, it’s vegetable time! Add the chopped cabbage, sliced bell pepper, and julienned carrot to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes. You want the veggies to be crisp-tender, holding onto some of that crunch. Keep stirring—they’ll cook quickly, and you wouldn’t want them mushy!

Combine Everything

Return the reserved chicken to the pan. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, along with the toasted sesame oil, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir thoroughly to coat all the ingredients. The colors in your pan will make your mouth water, and the flavors will start to meld beautifully.

Thicken the Sauce

If you prefer a nice, thick sauce, here’s where the magic happens! Add the cornstarch-water mixture to the pan. Cook everything for another minute until the sauce thickens, binding all those wonderful flavors together. This gives your stir-fry the perfect coating that clings to the chicken and veggies.

Serve Hot

Your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is ready! Serve it hot, maybe over a bed of steamed rice or your favorite noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if you have them handy. Trust me; you’ll want to dig in immediately as the aromas are simply irresistible!

Tips for Success

Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process.
For even cooking, cut the chicken and veggies into uniform sizes.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain that perfect stir-fry texture.
Adjust seasoning to your taste—don’t be afraid to experiment!
Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture; reheating can make veggies soggy.

Equipment Needed

Large Skillet or Wok: Essential for stir-frying, a non-stick skillet can work too if you don’t have a wok.
Sharp Knife: For chopping and slicing your ingredients with ease; a good chef’s knife is a worthy investment.
Cutting Board: A sturdy surface to prep your veggies and chicken safely.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Helpful for precise ingredient measurement, especially the sauces.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring everything together and ensuring even cooking.

Variations

Protein Swaps: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a delightful twist. Both pair wonderfully with the stir-fry sauce.
Vegetable Medley: Feel free to add broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini. Each brings its own unique flavor and nutrition to the dish.
Spice It Up: Add some fresh ginger or a dash of chili oil for an extra kick that’s sure to awaken your taste buds.
Gluten-Free Option: Make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce, as standard soy sauce contains gluten.
Low-Carb Friendly: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a healthy, low-carb alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Steamed Rice: Serve your stir-fry over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up all that savory sauce.
Noodles: Try it with lo main or rice noodles for a twist!
Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for an appealing crunch.
Drink Pairing: A light, crisp white wine or iced green tea complements the dish beautifully.
Garnish: Fresh cilantro or green onions elevate the final presentation while adding flavor.

FAQs about Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Can I make Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry in advance?
Yes! You can prep all your vegetables and chicken ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to stir-fry. The dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be kept in the fridge for a day or two.

What can I use instead of chicken?
Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even a mix of vegetables if you want a vegetarian option. Each protein pairs well with the bold flavors of the stir-fry.

How can I adjust the spice level?
To make it milder, simply reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes. For those who love heat, consider adding sliced fresh chili or a touch of chili paste.

Can I freeze leftovers of this stir-fry?
Absolutely! Just let it cool and then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for about 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What’s a good side dish to serve with Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry?
Complement it with steamed jasmine rice or a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch. Both pair beautifully, making your meal even more delightful!

Final Thoughts

Cooking should be joyful and effortless, and my Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry embodies just that. It’s a dish that allows me to whip together a nutritious meal without breaking a sweat while also letting me explore vibrant flavors. Every bite fills the table with warmth and smiles, making busy evenings a little more delightful. I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it has brought to my family! So grab your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and let the delicious aromas guide you. Happy cooking, my friends!