If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed meal, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is about to become a staple in your kitchen. With tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and a savory garlic-ginger sauce, this dish delivers everything you love about a great stir-fry—without the takeout price tag.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or anyone who wants a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste. It’s light yet satisfying, and the best part? It all comes together in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick, Easy, and Foolproof

No complicated steps, no fancy ingredients—just a simple stir-fry that comes together effortlessly. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting, this recipe is straightforward and reliable.

Healthy Without Compromising Flavor

Loaded with lean protein and fiber-rich veggies, this dish proves that healthy food can be incredibly delicious. Plus, it’s naturally low in carbs, making it great for a lighter meal.

Versatile and Customizable

Whether you prefer chicken breasts or thighs, extra spice or mild flavors, this stir-fry adapts to your preferences. It’s also easy to make gluten-free or vegetarian with a few simple swaps.

Ingredients for Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Great stir-fries start with fresh, simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Core Ingredients

• Chicken – Thinly sliced boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs. Thighs stay juicier, but breasts cook faster.
• Cabbage – Shredded green cabbage adds crunch and soaks up all the delicious sauce.
• Carrots – Julienned for a pop of color and natural sweetness.
• Garlic & Ginger – The ultimate flavor duo for authentic stir-fry depth.
• Green Onions – Adds a fresh, slightly sharp bite at the end.
• Soy Sauce & Oyster Sauce – The base of the stir-fry sauce, balancing salty and umami flavors.
• Cornstarch – Helps tenderize the chicken and gives it a velvety texture.
• Sesame Oil – A drizzle at the end adds nutty depth.
• Vegetable Oil – Neutral oil for high-heat stir-frying.
• White Pepper & Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but they bring gentle heat and warmth.

Substitutions and Tips

• For a vegetarian version – Swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms.
• For a gluten-free option – Use tamari instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free oyster sauce alternative.
• Want more heat? Add a dash of sriracha or increase the red pepper flakes.
• For a richer sauce – Mix in a teaspoon of hoisin sauce or a drizzle of honey.

With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to making an incredible homemade stir-fry that’s bursting with bold, savory flavors. Next, let’s go step-by-step through the cooking process to ensure your stir-fry turns out perfect every time.

How to Make Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

A great stir-fry is all about balance—tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce that brings everything together. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Chinese restaurant.

Let’s walk through the process, step by step, to make sure your stir-fry turns out perfect every time.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Must-Have Tools

• Wok or large frying pan – A wok distributes heat evenly and gives that signature stir-fry texture, but a large skillet works too.
• Sharp knife – Essential for slicing chicken and vegetables thinly and evenly.
• Cutting board – Keeps your workspace organized and safe.
• Mixing bowls – For marinating the chicken and preparing the sauce.
• Spatula or tongs – Helps you toss everything together efficiently.

Nice-to-Have Tools

• Julienne peeler – If you want uniform carrot strips without the effort of cutting by hand.
• Meat thermometer – Ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked without guesswork.
• Garlic press – Saves time on mincing garlic.

Now that everything is prepped, let’s get cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

The secret to ultra-tender stir-fried chicken? A simple marinade.

In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced chicken with cornstarch and one tablespoon of soy sauce. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes. This step helps lock in moisture, keeping the chicken juicy while also giving it a light, velvety coating.

Pro Tip: If you have extra time, let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes to maximize flavor and tenderness.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

A great stir-fry sauce should be bold yet balanced. In a small bowl, whisk together:

• The remaining soy sauce
• Oyster sauce for rich umami flavor
• Sesame oil for a hint of nuttiness
• Two tablespoons of water to thin it out

Set the sauce aside—it’s going to bring everything together at the end.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat.

Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Let it sear for about 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set it aside.

Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan. If needed, cook the chicken in batches to get that perfect sear.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Next, add the shredded cabbage and julienned carrots. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly but still have a bit of crunch.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir everything together, making sure the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated. Let it cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Finish by sprinkling with white pepper and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Toss in the green parts of the onions, give it one last stir, and remove from heat.

Tips for Success

• Use high heat – Stir-frying is all about quick cooking at high temperatures to keep the ingredients crisp and flavorful.
• Slice everything evenly – This ensures even cooking and a well-balanced bite.
• Don’t skip the marinade – Even a short marinade makes a big difference in flavor and tenderness.
• Adjust the sauce to taste – If you prefer a saltier stir-fry, add a splash of extra soy sauce. If you like a hint of sweetness, a drizzle of honey works beautifully.

This dish is best served hot, straight from the pan, with a side of steamed rice or noodles. Up next, let’s talk about how to store leftovers and some creative ways to repurpose them.

How to Store Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

At Room Temperature

Once cooked, stir-fry should not be left out for more than two hours. If you’re serving it family-style, make sure to refrigerate any leftovers promptly to keep them fresh.

In the Refrigerator

For best results, store leftovers in an airtight container. This prevents the chicken from drying out and helps keep the vegetables crisp. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Pro Tip: Store the stir-fry separately from rice or noodles to maintain texture. If you’re meal prepping, keep portions separate until ready to eat.

Freezing Tips

Yes, you can freeze stir-fry, but with a few considerations.

• Chicken freezes well, but cabbage tends to become a little softer after thawing. If you don’t mind a slight texture change, go ahead and freeze it.
• Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Label and date your container—it will keep well for up to 2 months.

Best way to thaw: Let it defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Reheat Without Losing Texture

The key to keeping your stir-fry fresh and flavorful is avoiding the microwave when possible.

Best Method: Reheat on the Stovetop

• Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Add the stir-fry and toss gently until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
• If needed, add a splash of soy sauce or water to refresh the flavors.

Quickest Method: Microwave (If You Must)

If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave, but be careful.

• Place the stir-fry in a microwave-safe dish.
• Cover with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out.
• Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Swap the chicken for firm tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms. Just press the tofu before cooking so it absorbs the flavors better.

What other vegetables can I add?

This stir-fry is versatile. Try adding bell peppers, snap peas, baby bok choy, or zucchini.

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?

Yes, but fresh-cut cabbage has a better texture. If using pre-shredded, opt for thicker cuts rather than finely shredded coleslaw mixes.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and make sure your oyster sauce is labeled gluten-free.

Is this recipe spicy?

The base recipe is mild, but you can spice it up by adding extra red pepper flakes, chili paste, or a dash of sriracha.

What’s the best way to serve this stir-fry?

Serve it over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or stir-fried noodles. If you’re going for a low-carb meal, try cauliflower rice or enjoy it as is.

Related Recipes to Try Next

If you love this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry, you might also enjoy these other delicious recipes:

• Pepper Steak – A classic Chinese dish with tender beef, bell peppers, and a rich brown sauce.
• Dirty Rice – A spicy and flavorful rice dish that pairs perfectly with stir-fries.
• Chicken Mushroom Pasta – A creamy, savory dish packed with protein and rich flavors.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A comforting and creamy pasta dish for garlic lovers.

This recipe is perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal. Try it today and enjoy a homemade Chinese classic that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor!

Final Thoughts

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is one of those meals that’s easy to make but packed with flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy a homemade, healthier version of your favorite takeout. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping for the week ahead, this stir-fry is always a good idea.

Give it a try and make it your own. Adjust the spice level, swap out ingredients, or experiment with different vegetables. The beauty of stir-frying is that there’s no wrong way—just a delicious way.

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