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Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

If you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a must-try. In under 30 minutes, tender chicken and crisp cabbage come together in a savory-sweet sauce that makes for a satisfying meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

Marinated Chicken
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce for marinating
Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon halal oyster sauce optional
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Stir-Fry Ingredients
  • 3 cups green cabbage shredded
  • 1 medium carrot julienned
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced
  • 3 green onions chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil divided (for stir-frying)
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Equipment

  • Large wok or skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Whisk
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Slice 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breast thinly against the grain. Toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and let it marinate for 5-10 minutes.
  2. While the chicken marinates, prepare the sauce by whisking together 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon halal oyster sauce (if using), 2 teaspoons sesame oil, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until almost smoking. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook undisturbed for about 1 minute, then stir and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until nearly done. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
  4. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon grated ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add 3 cups shredded cabbage, 1 julienned carrot, and 1 sliced red bell pepper, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
  5. Return the chicken to the pan along with 3 chopped green onions and, if desired, ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir constantly for 30-60 seconds until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the chicken and vegetables.
  6. Serve the stir-fry immediately over steamed jasmine rice or noodles. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for an extra nutty flavor and visual appeal.

Notes

This quick and healthy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave restaurant-quality flavor at home. It features tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory-sweet sauce that clings to every bite. Feel free to swap proteins or adjust vegetables based on what you have available. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated while retaining much of the dish’s delightful texture.