Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

This Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick, flavorful, and healthy one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and a savory garlic-ginger sauce, this dish is low in carbs, high in protein, and bursting with Asian-inspired flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
• One-pan meal for minimal cleanup
• Low-carb, high-protein, and full of nutrients
• Customizable with different veggies and sauces
• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free (with tamari or coconut aminos)

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil
• 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or Napa)
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• ½ onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (or coconut aminos for paleo-friendly)
• 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for balance)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder (to thicken)

For Garnish (Optional):

• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, honey, and cornstarch. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil.
2. Stir in cabbage, carrots, onion, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until vegetables are slightly softened but still crisp.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the chicken to the pan.
2. Pour in the sauce and toss everything together. Stir-fry for 2-3 more minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

1. Remove from heat and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sesame oil if desired.
2. Serve alone or with rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
• Extra Crunch: Toss in water chestnuts or cashews.
• More Veggies: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos.
• Keto-Friendly: Skip the honey and use a sugar-free substitute.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as cabbage may become soggy when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead?

Yes! Ground chicken or turkey works well in this recipe.

What’s the best type of cabbage to use?

Green cabbage, Napa cabbage, or even red cabbage all work great.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh.

How do I keep the cabbage from getting soggy?

Cook over high heat and avoid over-stirring—this helps retain some crunch.

Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?

Absolutely! It’s a great time-saving option.

What should I serve this with?

Enjoy it on its own or serve with steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Increase the cornstarch slightly or let it simmer for an extra minute.

Can I add eggs like in fried rice?

Yes! Scramble an egg in the pan before adding the chicken back in.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well and makes a great reheatable lunch.

Can I make this sauce-free?

Yes! Simply season with salt, pepper, and a splash of soy sauce for a lighter version.

Conclusion

This Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a simple, flavorful, and healthy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and a savory sauce, it’s easy to make and packed with nutrients. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, one-pan meal in just 25 minutes!

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