Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe – Quick & Healthy

Name: Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2-3 Green Onions (bulb and stalks separated); 8.5 ounces Boneless Chicken (breast or thighs, cut into strips); 1 inch Fresh Ginger (chopped or grated); 2-3 Garlic Cloves (chopped or minced); ⅓ small head Cabbage (shredded, regular or napa); 1 Tablespoon Oil (vegetable, canola, or sunflower); 2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce (regular or gluten-free tamari for gluten-free version); ¼ cup Water (omit for napa cabbage); Sesame Seeds (for garnish); Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for heat)

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Are you looking for a quick and healthy dinner option that is both delicious and satisfying? Look no further than this Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry recipe. With tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and an array of aromatic seasonings, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. The best part? It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it a go-to meal when you’re short on time but want to enjoy a flavorful, wholesome dish.

Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry in a skillet with vegetables and chicken strips

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

This Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is an ideal meal for those who are looking for something quick, nutritious, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for one or serving the whole family, this recipe is versatile and easy to customize. Plus, it’s low in carbs and high in protein, making it a great option for anyone looking to eat healthier. You can even modify the ingredients to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this simple and delicious Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry:

• Chicken Breast or Thighs: Boneless chicken adds lean protein, while chicken thighs provide more flavor and moisture.

• Cabbage: Use regular green cabbage or napa cabbage. Both types bring crunch and nutrition to the dish.

• Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic give this stir fry its signature Asian-inspired flavor, with a mild spicy warmth from the ginger and a savory depth from the garlic.

• Green Onions: These add a mild onion flavor with a fresh, crunchy texture that complements the cabbage.

• Soy Sauce: This essential ingredient gives the stir fry a salty, umami richness that ties all the flavors together.

• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds texture and an authentic Asian touch.

• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but they bring heat and a beautiful red color to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re missing an ingredient or need a swap due to dietary restrictions, here are some ideas:

• Chicken: Swap the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Both are great substitutes for a protein-packed stir fry.

• Cabbage: Try using bok choy or even spinach as an alternative to cabbage if you prefer different greens.

• Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free version, opt for tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry:

Prepare Your Ingredients: Slice the chicken into thin strips and shred the cabbage. Chop the ginger, garlic, and green onions, keeping the green stalks separate for garnish.
Cook the Aromatics: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced green onions and cook for a minute before adding the ginger and garlic. Stir-fry until fragrant.
Cook the Cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until the cabbage wilts slightly. Pour in the soy sauce and a little water if you’re using regular cabbage. If you’re using napa cabbage, you won’t need water. Stir everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cabbage softens.
Add the Chicken: Create a space in the center of the skillet and add the chicken strips. Stir everything together to ensure the chicken cooks evenly on all sides. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
Finish the Dish: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the stir fry with sesame seeds, red pepper flakes (if using), and sliced green onion stalks. Serve hot.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Stir-fry it quickly on high heat to keep it juicy and tender.

• Use High Heat: Stir-frying works best on high heat. This allows the cabbage to retain its crunch while the chicken cooks quickly, keeping both ingredients fresh and flavorful.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: If you prefer a sweeter stir fry, add a touch of honey or a drizzle of Thai sweet chili sauce. For extra spice, a splash of hot chili oil works wonders.

• Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently to prevent the cabbage from becoming soggy.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

While this Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is a complete meal on its own, it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or a side salad for added crunch. If you’re looking to keep it lighter, serve it with a refreshing Asian-inspired cucumber salad..

If you like variations, here are some ideas to mix up the flavors:

• Add More Veggies: Include bell peppers, mushrooms, or bok choy for a more vegetable-rich stir fry.

• Spicy Version: Drizzle hot chili oil over the dish or stir in extra red pepper flakes for more heat.

• Curry Twist: For a curry-flavored stir fry, sprinkle in a teaspoon of curry powder during cooking.

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the soy sauce with tamari to make it gluten-free without losing the savory flavor.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is not only a quick and tasty meal but also packed with nutrition. The chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Cabbage, rich in fiber, helps with digestion and supports a healthy immune system. Ginger and garlic are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in boosting metabolism. This dish is low in carbs, making it perfect for those on low-carb or keto diets.

Conclusion

The Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is a fantastic, quick meal option that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. Whether you’re looking for a fast weeknight dinner or a meal prep idea, this stir fry is perfect for busy days. Feel free to customize the recipe with different vegetables or proteins to suit your preferences. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dish that’s full of flavors and textures everyone will love.

FAQ About Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

Can I use other vegetables in this stir fry?

Absolutely! This Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is versatile, and you can easily swap in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or bok choy. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times for the different veggies, as some may cook faster or slower than cabbage.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until it’s warmed through. However, for the best texture, it’s ideal to enjoy it fresh right after cooking.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

While fresh chicken is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen chicken if you’ve thawed it properly. Just ensure it’s fully cooked through before serving.

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