If you’ve been looking for a vibrant, hearty dish that’s both nourishing and packed with flavor, the Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe is your new go-to. This dish brings together tender bites of chicken with crisp, colorful vegetables all tossed in a savory, slightly spicy sauce that perfectly balances umami and freshness. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but satisfying enough to feel like a real treat. Trust me, once you try this stir-fry, it’ll become a beloved staple on your dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand, yet each element plays a crucial role in building that classic layered flavor and texture. From the buttery sauté of onions and garlic to the crunchy freshness of cabbage and bell peppers, every component complements the rest beautifully.
- Butter: Adds a rich, creamy base that helps soften the vegetables and carry the flavors.
- Medium onion, sliced: Provides sweetness and a bit of bite when sautéed until fragrant.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Kickstarts the aromatic profile and gives the dish a savory depth.
- Chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Lean protein that cooks quickly and soaks up the sauces.
- Half a head of cabbage, chopped: Brings crunch and a mild sweetness, balancing the dish perfectly.
- Carrot, julienned: Adds a pop of color and a subtle earthy sweetness.
- Bell pepper, sliced: Contributes sweetness and vibrant color along with a bit of crispness.
- Soy sauce: The umami backbone that seasons everything beautifully.
- Oyster sauce: Intensifies the savory depth with a touch of sweetness and silkiness.
- Black pepper: Provides a gentle heat and peppery flavor.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little extra kick and warmth.
- Sesame oil: Adds a toasty, nutty finish that makes the dish truly irresistible.
How to Make Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating the butter in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Toss in the sliced onion and minced garlic, stirring them gently until they soften and fill your kitchen with that inviting fragrance. This simple step builds the flavor foundation for your stir-fry and ensures every bite is bursting with warmth and aroma.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Next, add your bite-sized chicken pieces to the pan. Cook them thoroughly, allowing each piece to brown beautifully. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. The browning not only locks in juices but also creates those delicious caramelized notes that bring such depth to this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
In with the chopped cabbage, julienned carrot, and sliced bell pepper. Stir everything together and let the veggies cook for around 5 to 6 minutes. You want them tender yet maintaining their satisfying crunch—this contrast between soft chicken and crisp veggies is what makes this stir-fry so enjoyable.
Step 4: Season and Finish
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, seasoning the dish with black pepper and optional red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. Stir everything well to combine, letting the sauce coat the ingredients evenly. Right before serving, drizzle the sesame oil on top for that final burst of flavor that truly defines this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe.
How to Serve Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate this stir-fry in an instant. Try sprinkling sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds over the top. A few sprigs of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice can add a bright, fresh note that complements the rich, savory sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe pairs beautifully with simple steamed jasmine rice to soak up all those wonderful sauces. For a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice works just as well and adds a light veggie boost. You could also serve it alongside some quick pickled vegetables to add a tangy crunch contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling a bit fancy? Serve the stir-fry inside crispy lettuce cups for a fun handheld option, or stuff it into warm steamed bao buns for a comforting bite with a twist. Another great idea is to top off a bowl of warm noodles with this stir-fry for a complete meal that’s as satisfying visually as it is in taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe cools, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners on busy days.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to a month. Just be aware that cabbage and bell peppers may lose some of their crispness after thawing, so it’s best for meals where texture is less critical.
Reheating
Reheat your stir-fry gently in a skillet over medium heat to revive the flavors and textures. Add a small splash of soy sauce or water if it seems dry. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep some of the original crispness in the veggies.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with shrimp, pork, or even tofu if you prefer a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is this recipe spicy? Can I make it milder?
The optional red pepper flakes add some heat, but you can skip them entirely if you prefer a milder dish. The soy and oyster sauces provide plenty of rich flavor on their own.
What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage is traditional and gives great crunch, but you can also experiment with Napa cabbage for a slightly sweeter, more tender texture.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?
You can prep the ingredients in advance and cook just before serving. Mixing and stir-frying right before your guests arrive keeps everything fresh and vibrant.
What’s the best oil to use for stir-frying?
Butter is used here for extra flavor, but vegetable, peanut, or canola oil are all great choices and can handle high heat efficiently. Just finish with sesame oil for that distinctive nutty aroma.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe enough if you want something quick, flavorful, and satisfying. The balance of tender chicken, crisp veggies, and savory sauces makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. Give it a try and watch it become an instant favorite in your home too!
Print
Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
A quick and flavorful Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry featuring tender chicken pieces and crisp vegetables cooked in a savory sauce with soy, oyster, and sesame oil. This easy stir-fry is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner and serves four.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 head cabbage, chopped
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
Sauces and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: Heat butter in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add sliced onion and minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes, which helps release their flavors as the base of the stir-fry.
- Cook Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are browned on the outside and cooked through, approximately 5 to 7 minutes depending on size. This ensures the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped cabbage, julienned carrot, and sliced bell pepper. Continue cooking for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the vegetables become tender-crisp, maintaining a nice texture and bright color.
- Season and Finish: Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well to evenly distribute all the seasonings. Drizzle sesame oil over the stir-fry, give a final toss, then remove from heat and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier texture.
- Add other vegetables such as snap peas or mushrooms for variety.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control spiciness or omit if you prefer mild food.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Use low sodium soy sauce to reduce salt content.
