Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry: A Quick 25-Minute Delight

Name: Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry: A Quick 25-Minute Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, sliced; 4 cups cabbage, shredded; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

October 30, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, let me introduce you to my go-to chicken cabbage stir fry. This dish is not only vibrant and colorful but also incredibly satisfying. I love how it combines tender chicken with crunchy cabbage and is ready in about 25 minutes! It’s the perfect meal when you want something healthy but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made it – I was in college, juggling classes and a part-time job, and I needed something easy yet delicious. This recipe became my lifesaver! You can toss in any extra veggies you have lying around, and it’ll still taste amazing. Plus, the soy sauce adds that irresistible umami flavor that just pulls everything together. Trust me, once you try this chicken cabbage stir fry, it’ll become a staple in your home too!

chicken cabbage stir fry - detail 1

Ingredients List

To whip up my delicious chicken cabbage stir fry, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that pack a ton of flavor. Here’s what you’ll gather:

1 pound chicken breast, sliced: Choose fresh, boneless chicken breast for the best results. Slice it into thin strips to ensure even cooking.
4 cups cabbage, shredded: I love using green cabbage, but feel free to mix it up with red cabbage for a pop of color. Shredding it finely helps it cook quickly and evenly.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: This adds that savory, umami punch that brings the whole dish together. I recommend low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Use this for sautéing. It’s a healthier choice that complements the flavors beautifully.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! It adds a wonderful aroma and flavor when sautéed.
1 teaspoon ginger, grated: Fresh ginger gives the dish a nice zing. Don’t skip it; it brightens everything up!
Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your preference to enhance the flavors.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a fantastic meal that’s as nutritious as it is tasty!

How to Prepare Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

Making this chicken cabbage stir fry is a breeze! Follow my step-by-step guide, and you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time. Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. You’ll want to let it warm up for a minute before moving on, as this helps to create a nice sear on your chicken.

Step 2: Cook Garlic and Ginger

Now it’s time to get that amazing aroma going! Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir them around for about 30 seconds until they’re fragrant. Be careful not to burn them; they can go from perfect to bitter really quickly!

Step 3: Add Chicken

Next, add your sliced chicken breast to the pan. Spread it out in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when there’s no pink left in the center and the juices run clear.

Step 4: Incorporate Cabbage and Soy Sauce

Once your chicken is perfectly cooked, it’s time to add the shredded cabbage and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Stir everything together, ensuring the cabbage gets coated in that delicious sauce. This is where the magic happens; the soy sauce will start to caramelize slightly, adding depth to the dish!

Step 5: Final Cooking

Continue to cook everything for another 5-7 minutes. You’ll want to stir occasionally until the cabbage has wilted but still retains a bit of crunch. It should be tender but not mushy – that’s the sweet spot!

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finally, season your stir fry with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last good stir and then plate it up! I love serving this chicken cabbage stir fry over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken cabbage stir fry is not just quick and easy; it’s packed with flavor and nutrition! Here are a few reasons why this dish will quickly become a favorite:

Quick Preparation: With only 25 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that’ll have you coming back for seconds.
Healthy Ingredients: Lean chicken and fresh veggies make this a low-calorie option that’s high in protein and fiber.
Versatile: Feel free to add in any other vegetables you love or have on hand – it’s a great way to use up leftovers!
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the crunchy cabbage and tender chicken, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why this recipe is such a keeper!

Tips for Success

To ensure your chicken cabbage stir fry turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips to keep in mind:

Prep Ahead: Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This dish comes together quickly, and being organized will help you avoid any last-minute scrambling!
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, cook the chicken in batches to prevent steaming. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy veggies.
Feel Free to Experiment: This recipe is super versatile! Try swapping out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein. You can also add in other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
Adjust the Seasoning: Taste as you go! Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to add more soy sauce, salt, or even a splash of sesame oil for extra depth.

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to a delicious and satisfying meal that’ll impress everyone at your table!

Variations

The beauty of this chicken cabbage stir fry lies in its versatility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or use up whatever veggies you have on hand. Here are a few fun ideas to switch things up:

Vegetable Add-ins: Try adding bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots for a colorful twist. You can also toss in some broccoli florets or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Protein Swaps: Not a fan of chicken? No problem! Substitute with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.
Sauce Variations: Instead of just soy sauce, mix in a splash of oyster sauce or teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile. For a spicy kick, add some chili paste or sriracha to the mix!
Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions can elevate the dish even more. Sprinkle them on top right before serving for a burst of freshness.

Feel free to get creative! This stir fry is your canvas, so have fun experimenting with different combinations that suit your palate.

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying a delicious chicken cabbage stir fry, it’s nice to know it’s not just tasty but also nutritious! Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving:

Calories: 250
Fat: 8g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 500mg

These values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this dish is definitely a wholesome choice for any meal!

FAQ Section

If you’ve got questions about this chicken cabbage stir fry, don’t worry! I’ve got you covered. Here are some common queries I often hear:

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before slicing. Frozen chicken can sometimes release extra moisture, so you might need to adjust the cooking time a bit.

Q2: What other vegetables can I add to the stir fry?
The beauty of a stir fry is its versatility! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or even broccoli. Just remember to chop them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

Q3: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free chicken cabbage stir fry, simply swap the soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. It’ll taste just as fantastic!

Q4: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can chop your veggies and marinate the chicken in soy sauce a few hours in advance. Just store everything in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Q5: What can I serve with this stir fry?
I love serving this dish over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a side of spring rolls or a light salad for a refreshing touch!

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out this stir fry chicken recipe or air fryer chicken recipes for quick meal ideas!