If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor, texture, and vibrant colors, this Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines tender, juicy chicken breast with crisp, slightly sweet cabbage and the perfect medley of vegetables all brought together by a savory sauce that leaves you wanting more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to impress friends, this recipe delivers deliciousness with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients are what make this Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe truly shine. Each item was chosen not only for its taste but also for how it complements the others, creating a luscious balance of color, texture, and flavor that’s both comforting and exciting.
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced: Choose fresh chicken for tender, juicy meat that soaks up all the flavors.
- 1/2 head cabbage, shredded: Provides crunch and a mild sweetness that perfectly balances the savoriness.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds vibrant color and a gentle sweetness that brightens the dish.
- 1 onion, sliced: Offers a subtle sharpness and depth when cooked down with the other ingredients.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that irresistible aromatic kick which defines stir-fry dishes.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Brings salty umami that layers beautifully with the other seasonings.
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce: Adds a rich, savory glaze with a hint of sweetness that elevates the stir-fry.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil: Infuses the dish with toasty warmth and nuttiness, finishing it off perfectly.
- 1 tsp ginger, grated: Gives a fresh and slightly spicy note that balances out richness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil: Ideal for high-heat cooking to get that beautiful sear on the chicken and vegetables.
How to Make Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. This high temperature is key to achieving a nice sear on the chicken and to cook the veggies quickly while keeping their perfect crisp-tender texture.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced chicken breast. Cook it undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. This step locks in the juiciness and builds the flavorful foundation you want in your stir-fry.
Step 3: Add Garlic, Ginger, Onion, and Red Bell Pepper
Next, toss in the minced garlic, grated ginger, sliced onion, and red bell pepper. Sauté these together for 3 to 4 minutes. The aromas released here are incredible, and the veggies start to soften just enough, giving the dish a fresh yet cooked vibrancy.
Step 4: Stir in Cabbage and Sauces
It’s time to add the shredded cabbage along with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper. Cook everything together for another 5 to 7 minutes until the cabbage becomes tender but still has a slight crunch. The sauce coats every ingredient, creating a mouthwatering glaze.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy!
Once everything is cooked to perfection, serve your Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry straight from the pan. This dish is best enjoyed fresh and steaming hot for the full burst of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top adds a wonderful finishing touch, providing extra texture and a pop of fresh color that makes every bite exciting. For a spicy kick, you can add sliced red chili or a drizzle of chili oil.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice to soak up all those delicious juices. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, quinoa or cauliflower rice make excellent alternatives. A crisp cucumber salad on the side also complements the warm, savory flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe inside butter lettuce cups for a fresh handheld option. You can also pile it over noodles or toss it with cooked soba or rice noodles for a noodle stir-fry variation that’s just as delicious and satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, so it’s a great make-ahead option for busy weekdays.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze the stir-fry without the rice or noodles. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will keep for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the crispness of the vegetables, but it works perfectly well when you’re short on time.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cabbage for this stir-fry?
Absolutely! Savoy cabbage or Napa cabbage works just as well and adds a slightly different texture or flavor, but green cabbage is a classic choice that holds up nicely during cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily make it gluten-free by substituting regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, and use a vegan oyster sauce or substitute with a mushroom-based sauce for that same depth of umami flavor.
How spicy is this dish?
This stir-fry is mild by itself but full of flavorful savory notes. You can add your preferred heat level by incorporating chili flakes, fresh chilies, or hot sauce to taste.
What’s the best way to slice the chicken for stir-frying?
Slice the chicken thinly and against the grain to ensure it stays tender and cooks quickly. This technique keeps the texture just right and helps the chicken absorb all the delicious sauces perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe has quickly become one of my top go-to meals when I want something wholesome, full of flavor, and quick to put together. Its delightful mix of textures and mouthwatering sauce make it a crowd-pleaser every single time. I hope you enjoy cooking and sharing it as much as I do—happy eating!
Print
Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breast and crunchy cabbage tossed with vibrant red bell peppers and savory Asian sauces. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner, it combines colorful vegetables with aromatic garlic, ginger, and a splash of sesame oil to create a satisfying and healthy meal ready in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
Vegetables
- 1/2 head cabbage, shredded
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces and Oils
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Seasonings
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot enough to sizzle ingredients.
- Cook Chicken: Add the thinly sliced chicken breast to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics and Peppers: Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, sliced onion, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add Cabbage and Sauces: Stir in the shredded cabbage along with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still crisp, and everything is well combined.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the stir-fry hot alongside steamed rice or noodles as preferred.
Notes
- Use fresh ginger for the best flavor impact; alternatively, ground ginger can be used in smaller quantities.
- Adjust soy sauce and oyster sauce according to your salt preference.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with firm tofu and use vegetarian oyster sauce.
- To add heat, include sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili flakes while cooking.
- Serve immediately to retain the crispness of the vegetables.
