Chicken cabbage stir fry is your go-to weeknight hero—fast, healthy, and packed with bold flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes, this chicken cabbage stir fry combines juicy chicken, crisp cabbage, and a savory sauce that tastes better than takeout. It’s the perfect meal for quick dinners or make-ahead prep.
Let’s break down what makes chicken cabbage stir fry so crave-worthy and how to master it at home.
Table of Contents
Nutritional benefits of chicken and cabbage combo
Chicken and cabbage are not just delicious together—they’re also a nutritional powerhouse.
| Ingredient | Health Benefits |
|---|---|
| Chicken (breast/thigh) | High in lean protein, B vitamins, and selenium |
| Green cabbage | Rich in vitamin K, C, fiber, and antioxidants |
| Garlic & ginger | Natural anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting |
This dish is low in calories yet filling, making it ideal for those watching their weight without sacrificing flavor. The cabbage gives bulk and crunch, while the chicken delivers satisfying protein that keeps you full longer.
And did we mention it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to make keto-friendly? No wonder so many home cooks are making it part of their weekly dinner rotation.
Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
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Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and healthy stir fry packed with tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and savory Asian flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1/2 head green cabbage, shredded
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and stir-fry until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add more oil if needed, then sauté garlic and ginger for 1 minute.
- Add carrots and cabbage. Stir-fry for 3–5 minutes until just tender but still crisp.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
- Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
- Cook for another 2 minutes to blend flavors.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: chicken, cabbage, stir fry, quick dinner, healthy meal
Sauces and Seasonings That Elevate Your Stir Fry
Classic Asian-style sauces: soy, sesame, hoisin
A delicious chicken cabbage stir fry lives and dies by its sauce. The good news? You don’t need anything fancy. Just a few pantry staples and the right balance can create a crave-worthy glaze that coats every bite.
Here’s a breakdown of essential Asian-style sauces:
| Sauce | Flavor Profile | Use In Stir Fry |
|---|---|---|
| Soy Sauce | Salty, umami-rich | Base of the stir fry sauce |
| Sesame Oil | Nutty, toasty | Added at the end for aroma |
| Hoisin Sauce | Sweet, savory, complex | Adds depth and richness |
| Oyster Sauce | Briny and umami-packed | Optional but amazing for boldness |
| Rice Vinegar | Tangy and bright | Balances salt and sweetness |
You can mix and match these based on what you like. Want it sweeter? Add a bit of honey. Need heat? Toss in some sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes.
Discover great ideas like this sweet-savory blend used in our tasty chicken philly cheese steak recipe — it’s an unexpected stir fry twist with tons of sauce inspiration.
Homemade stir fry sauce recipe from scratch
Want to ditch the bottle and go from scratch? Here’s a foolproof sauce mix:
Simple Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry Sauce Recipe
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp cornstarch (for thickening)
- 2 tbsp water
- Optional: ½ tsp chili flakes or 1 tsp sriracha for heat
Instructions: Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl. Add to the stir fry at the end, tossing everything until glossy and coated. The cornstarch helps thicken the sauce as it heats.
Tip: Add garlic and ginger to your oil before pouring the sauce for a deeper flavor hit.
Adjusting spice and salt levels to your taste
Taste as you go — it’s key. Some soy sauces are saltier than others, and cabbage naturally releases water, which can dilute the sauce. Adjust your seasoning at the end.
Here are easy ways to balance the flavor:
- Too salty? Add a dash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar
- Too bland? Splash in extra soy sauce or sesame oil
- Too spicy? Stir in a little honey or serve with plain rice to mellow the heat
Want to try another bold-flavored stir fry? Check out our lesser-known gem: crispy homemade chicken tenders and adapt their seasoning base to your stir fry for something different.
Best Sides to Serve with Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry
Low-Carb Pairings
Keep it light with these quick, keto-friendly options:
- Cauliflower rice – Absorbs sauce beautifully
- Zucchini noodles – Crisp and fresh
- Shirataki noodles – Virtually carb-free
- Steamed veggies – Broccoli or green beans add balance
Perfect for low-carb or meal prep plans.
Explore more in our chicken stir fry recipe guide.
Hearty Sides
Want something filling? Try:
- Jasmine rice – Fluffy and fragrant
- Brown rice – Nutty and high in fiber
- Soba or egg noodles – Great for a satisfying twist
Serve your stir fry on top to avoid sogginess.
Make-Ahead Tips and Leftover Storage
Can you meal prep chicken cabbage stir fry?
Yes! It stores well and keeps flavor and texture for up to 4 days.
Tips:
- Double the recipe for batch cooking
- Cool before storing
- Use airtight containers
- Store rice/noodles separately to avoid sogginess
Fridge Storage:
- Airtight container: 3–4 days
- With rice/noodles: 2–3 days
Freezing?
You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Flatten bags, remove air, and label them. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or microwave gently in intervals.
Fresh is best, but smart storage makes this chicken cabbage stir fry meal-prep friendly.
Need more freezer-friendly ideas? Try our crispy homemade chicken tenders.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Stir Fry
Overcrowding the pan
Too much in the pan steams your food instead of searing it. Cook chicken and cabbage in batches to keep things crispy and flavorful.
Not drying ingredients
Wet chicken or cabbage = soggy stir fry. Pat chicken dry before slicing, and let cabbage air dry after washing.
Sauce slip-ups
Avoid adding sauce too early or overusing cornstarch. Add it at the end and stir constantly for a smooth, glossy finish.
Looking for inspiration? Try how we balance textures in dishes like the cashew chicken recipe – easy stir fry, where the sauce clings just right.
To Sum It Up
Chicken cabbage stir fry isn’t just a quick and easy meal—it’s a flavor-packed, health-forward solution for busy weeknights and thoughtful meal prep. With its versatile ingredients, balanced nutrition, and endless variations, it’s a dish that can adapt to any taste or dietary goal.
From low-carb bowls to peanut-sauce twists, this recipe opens the door to creativity in your kitchen—without the stress. And with just one pan, you’ve got a dinner that’s simple to cook, easy to clean, and always satisfying.
Looking for more stir fry inspiration? Don’t miss our chicken stir fry recipe guide to keep your weeknight meals fresh, fast, and delicious.
FAQ
What is the best way to cook chicken and cabbage together?
The best method is stir-frying them separately to control texture and doneness. Start by cooking the chicken until browned and fully cooked, then remove it. Stir fry the cabbage next over high heat until just tender. Combine both with sauce at the end for a glossy, well-coated finish. This prevents sogginess and ensures each ingredient shines.
Can I make chicken cabbage stir fry ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Cook it fully, cool it, then portion it into airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. For best texture, keep noodles or rice separate until ready to serve. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, though the cabbage may soften slightly.
What sauces go well with chicken and cabbage stir fry?
Classic stir fry sauces like soy, sesame, oyster, or hoisin work well. You can also add spice with sriracha or balance it out with rice vinegar and a splash of honey. Want something creamy and bold? Try a peanut-based Thai-inspired sauce for a whole new flavor experience.
How do you keep stir fry cabbage from getting soggy?
Use high heat and cook it quickly. Make sure the cabbage is dry before adding it to the pan. Slice it into thicker ribbons and stir fry for only 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Also, avoid adding sauce too early—wait until the very end.
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