Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

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Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. With tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and a savory garlic-ginger sauce, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights.

Stir-frying is one of the healthiest and easiest cooking methods, allowing you to create a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or a simple side of vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Fast & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
  • Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
  • Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and oyster sauce creates an authentic, savory taste.
  • Customizable: You can add other vegetables or adjust the sauce to match your preferences.

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

  • 1 pound boneless chicken breast, thinly sliced
  • 1 small Chinese cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, peeled and grated
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Stir-Fry Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for a rich, umami flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (adds a touch of sweetness and depth)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch (helps thicken the sauce)
  • ¼ cup water (to create a smooth sauce)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and water until well combined. Set aside.
  2. This mixture will help create a smooth, glossy sauce that coats the chicken and cabbage evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
  2. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the sliced chicken breast and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is browned and almost cooked through.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Cabbage

  1. Add the chopped Chinese cabbage to the wok and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
  2. The cabbage should wilt slightly but still retain a bit of crispness for texture.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

  1. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and cabbage.
  2. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients evenly.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serving Suggestions

This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides:

  • Steamed Jasmine Rice – A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sauce.
  • Garlic Noodles – Toss cooked noodles with a little soy sauce and sesame oil for an extra treat.
  • Fried Rice – Turn it into a complete meal by serving it over homemade fried rice.
  • Stir-Fried Vegetables – Add more color and nutrients with bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.

Recipe Variations

  • Add More Vegetables: Include sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, bok choy, or carrots for more variety.
  • Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha for a spicy kick.
  • Swap the Protein: Try this stir-fry with shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different twist.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure the oyster sauce is gluten-free.

Pro Tips for the Best Stir-Fry

  • Slice the Chicken Thinly: Cutting the chicken into thin strips ensures it cooks evenly and stays tender.
  • Use High Heat: Stir-frying works best at high temperatures to keep the ingredients crisp and flavorful.
  • Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to allow everything to sear properly.
  • Prepare Everything in Advance: Have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking, as stir-frying happens quickly.
  • Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little extra water to thin it out.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers, you can store and reheat them for another meal:

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the flavors.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as cabbage loses its texture when frozen and reheated.

This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a delicious, wholesome, and quick meal that is packed with bold flavors. Whether you serve it with rice, noodles, or vegetables, it’s a dish that will become a regular in your meal rotation.

Try it today and enjoy a satisfying homemade stir-fry that’s better than takeout!

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