If you’re craving a delicious, quick, and healthy stir-fry, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is the perfect dish to try. Packed with tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and a savory garlic-ginger sauce, this meal comes together in just 15 minutes! Whether you’re looking for a low-carb dinner or an easy meal prep option, this stir-fry is a fantastic choice.

Why Stir-Fry is a Staple in Chinese Cuisine

Stir-frying is one of the most essential cooking techniques in Chinese cuisine. The method involves cooking ingredients at high heat in a wok or large pan, ensuring they stay crisp while absorbing bold flavors. If you want to master this method, check out Stir-Frying Basics to understand why it’s so effective for quick meals.

The Appeal of Quick and Easy Stir-Fries

One of the best things about stir-fry dishes is their versatility. This recipe is perfect for:

Busy weeknights – Cooks in just 15 minutes!
Low-carb and high-protein diets – Cabbage is a great substitute for rice.
Meal prep – Make a batch ahead of time for easy lunches.
Customizable meals – Swap proteins or add more veggies.

Unlike traditional takeout, making your own Chinese stir-fry at home gives you complete control over ingredients and flavors. You can even make it gluten-free by using tamari or a soy sauce substitute. If you’re curious about how soy sauce is made, check out this detailed guide.

Would you like to add a spicy kick to your stir-fry? Simply toss in some red chili flakes or Sriracha for extra heat. Let me know how you customize yours! 🚀🔥

Key Ingredients & Their Roles

A great stir-fry starts with fresh, flavorful ingredients. This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is made with a simple yet powerful combination of proteins, vegetables, and seasonings that create an irresistible dish.

Protein: Chicken for Lean & Tender Texture

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe because they are lean, high in protein, and cook quickly.
You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier texture if you prefer.
Want a vegetarian option? Swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based version.

If you’re interested in learning more about chicken as food, check out this detailed guide on its nutritional benefits and cooking methods.

Cabbage: The Star Vegetable

Cabbage is the perfect vegetable for stir-fry because it is low in carbs, high in fiber, and absorbs flavors beautifully.
It stays crispy yet tender when cooked, adding a great contrast to the soft chicken.
Green cabbage works best, but you can also use Napa cabbage for a slightly sweeter taste.

For a deeper dive into the health benefits of cabbage, check out this guide on its different varieties and uses.

Colorful Vegetables for Sweetness & Crunch

Carrots – Add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
Bell Peppers – Bring a mild crunch and freshness.
Green Onions – Enhance the dish with their mild onion flavor.

These veggies not only add nutrition but also make the dish visually appealing.

Essential Aromatics: Garlic & Ginger

Garlic: A fundamental ingredient in Chinese cooking, it adds a deep savory and aromatic quality.
Ginger: Provides a warm, slightly spicy kick that enhances the overall flavor.

When sautéed in oil, these aromatics infuse the stir-fry with an authentic Asian taste.

Flavor-Boosting Sauces & Seasonings

The sauce is what brings everything together! Here’s why each ingredient is important:

Soy Sauce – Provides umami richness and a classic savory flavor.
Oyster Sauce – Adds a slight sweetness and depth. Learn more about its origins here.
Sesame Oil – Gives the dish a nutty aroma and enhances the overall taste.
Sugar & Black Pepper – Balances the salty and savory elements.
Cornstarch Slurry – Thickens the sauce for a glossy, restaurant-quality finish.

Why These Ingredients Work Together

Each ingredient in this stir-fry is carefully chosen to create the perfect balance of flavors:

✔ Savory (Soy Sauce, Garlic, Chicken)
✔ Sweet (Carrots, Oyster Sauce, Sugar)
✔ Spicy (Ginger, Black Pepper, Optional Chili Flakes)
✔ Crunchy (Cabbage, Bell Peppers, Green Onions)

This flavor-packed combination makes the dish incredibly satisfying while remaining light and healthy.

Would you like to experiment with different flavors? Try using hoisin sauce for a sweeter taste or fish sauce for an umami boost!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is incredibly easy to make, but following the right steps will ensure your dish turns out perfectly balanced, flavorful, and restaurant-quality.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s important to have everything prepped:

Slice the chicken into thin strips for quick, even cooking.
Shred the cabbage and julienne the carrots for a crisp texture.
Mince the garlic and grate the ginger to release their bold flavors.
Mix the cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) to thicken the sauce later.

💡 Pro Tip: Having all ingredients ready before cooking ensures a smooth, fast stir-frying process, which is essential for achieving the best texture.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok or pan over medium-high heat.
Add the sliced chicken and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

🔹 Why cook the chicken first? This allows it to develop a nice sear and prevents it from overcooking later.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add another 1 tbsp of vegetable oil.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

💡 Be careful not to burn the garlic! Cooking it for too long can make it bitter instead of flavorful.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers to the pan.
Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, just until the vegetables start to soften but still have some crunch.

🔹 Want extra crispiness? Don’t overcook the veggies—high heat and quick tossing help maintain their texture.

Step 5: Add the Chicken Back & Season

Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
Pour in 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tsp sugar, and ½ tsp black pepper.
Toss everything together to ensure the sauce evenly coats the chicken and vegetables.

🔹 Need a gluten-free option? Swap soy sauce with tamari and use a gluten-free oyster sauce alternative.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce & Finish

Pour in the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
Add the chopped green onions, mix well, and remove from heat.

🔹 Why use cornstarch slurry? It creates a silky, glossy sauce that clings perfectly to every ingredient.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is ready to serve! You can enjoy it:

Over steamed rice for a comforting meal.
With noodles for a heartier dish.
On its own for a low-carb, high-protein option.

🔥 Want to make it spicy? Add a dash of red pepper flakes or Sriracha for extra heat!

Would you like to try other Asian stir-fry recipes? Explore Healthy Stir-Fry Recipes for more inspiration!

Tips for the Best Stir-Fry

Mastering the perfect stir-fry requires more than just throwing ingredients into a pan. Follow these expert tips to achieve a dish that’s flavorful, well-balanced, and restaurant-quality every time.

1. Use High Heat for Maximum Flavor

Stir-frying works best on high heat to sear the chicken and keep the vegetables crisp-tender.
A wok is ideal because it distributes heat evenly, but a large skillet works too.
Preheat your pan before adding ingredients—this prevents soggy stir-fry.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re new to wok cooking, check out these wok cooking tips for best practices!

2. Prep Everything Before Cooking

Stir-frying happens fast, so having your ingredients chopped, sauces measured, and cornstarch slurry ready ensures a smooth cooking process.
This method is known as mise en place—a technique used by professional chefs.

💡 Why is this important? A stir-fry can burn quickly if you’re scrambling to measure ingredients mid-cooking.

3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Too many ingredients in the pan at once will steam instead of sear, making the stir-fry mushy.
If needed, cook in batches—especially when browning the chicken.

💡 Best Practice: A single layer of chicken in the pan ensures a nice golden sear.

4. Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste

Like it saltier? Add more soy sauce.
Want a sweeter balance? Increase the oyster sauce or add a dash of honey.
Need more spice? Toss in some chili flakes or Sriracha.

💡 Customization Tip: Check out this Pinterest board on stir-fry sauces for more ideas!

5. How to Keep Vegetables Crisp

High heat + short cooking time = crispy veggies.
Add firmer vegetables (carrots, bell peppers) first, and delicate ones (cabbage, green onions) last.
Don’t cover the pan—it traps steam and makes veggies soft.

💡 Want extra crunch? Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or cashews before serving.

By following these simple yet effective tips, you’ll master the art of Chinese stir-frying and create perfectly balanced meals every time.

Variations & Customizations

One of the best things about this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is how versatile it is. Whether you’re looking for a spicier kick, a vegetarian twist, or a different protein, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish to fit your taste and dietary needs.

1. Add a Spicy Kick 🌶️

If you love spicy Chinese dishes, try these additions:

Chili flakes – Sprinkle them in while stir-frying for a mild heat.
Sriracha or chili paste – Stir into the sauce for an intense kick.
Fresh chili peppers – Thinly sliced red chilies add both heat and color.

💡 For a Sichuan-style twist, add a pinch of Sichuan peppercorns for a numbing heat!

2. Make It Vegetarian or Vegan 🥦

Want a meat-free version? Swap out the chicken for:

Firm tofu – Press and pan-fry first for a crispy texture.
Mushrooms – Shiitake or cremini mushrooms add a rich, umami depth.
Tempeh – A great protein-packed, nutty-flavored option.

🔹 Tip: Use a vegan oyster sauce or extra soy sauce to keep the depth of flavor.

3. Try Different Proteins 🍖

Not a fan of chicken? Here are some delicious alternatives:

Shrimp – Cooks quickly and pairs well with the savory sauce.
Beef strips – Slice against the grain for a tender texture.
Pork – Thinly sliced pork loin works great in stir-fries.

💡 For best results, marinate beef or pork in a little soy sauce and cornstarch before cooking.

4. Low-Sodium or Keto-Friendly Options 🥑

Watching your sodium or carbs? Try these modifications:

Use low-sodium soy sauce – Reduces salt while maintaining flavor.
Skip the sugar – Or replace it with monk fruit sweetener.
Add more cabbage and fewer carrots – Makes it even lower in carbs.

🔹 Want more low-carb Asian meal ideas? Check out these keto-friendly stir-fry recipes.

5. Add Extra Crunch or Texture 🌰

If you enjoy a little extra texture in your stir-fry, try these add-ins:

Toasted sesame seeds – Sprinkle on top for nuttiness.
Crushed peanuts or cashews – Adds crunch and richness.
Water chestnuts – A classic Chinese ingredient for a crisp bite.

With so many ways to personalize this stir-fry, you can make it new and exciting every time! Which variation will you try first? 😋

Serving Suggestions

A delicious Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry deserves the perfect pairing! Whether you want a hearty meal or a light, low-carb option, here are some of the best ways to serve this dish.

1. Classic Option: Over Steamed Rice 🍚

The most traditional way to enjoy this stir-fry is over a bowl of fluffy white rice.
For a healthier twist, try brown rice or jasmine rice for added fiber and nutrients.

🔹 Want to learn more about rice varieties? Check out this guide on Chinese cuisine to see which type works best.

2. Hearty Choice: With Noodles 🍜

Toss this stir-fry with lo mein noodles, rice noodles, or egg noodles for a heartier dish.
Cook the noodles separately, then mix them in at the end to soak up the flavorful sauce.
If you prefer a chewy texture, try udon noodles instead!

💡 For more noodle-based meal ideas, explore these healthy stir-fry recipes.

3. Low-Carb Alternative: Enjoy It on Its Own 🥗

This stir-fry is packed with protein and fiber, making it satisfying without rice or noodles.
Want an even lower-carb option? Serve it over cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.

🔹 Tip: Adding extra cabbage makes the dish feel even more filling while keeping it light!

4. Serve It as a Side Dish 🍽️

Pair this stir-fry with other classic Asian dishes for a full meal.
Great sides include:
- Egg drop soup – Light and comforting.
- Spring rolls – Crispy and flavorful.
- Steamed dumplings – A perfect appetizer.

💡 Want to prep a full Chinese feast? Get inspired by these meal prep ideas.

No matter how you serve it, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is guaranteed to be a flavorful, satisfying dish that fits any meal plan!

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is not only quick to make but also perfect for meal prep! Follow these storage and reheating tips to keep your stir-fry fresh and delicious.

1. How to Store Leftovers 🥡

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While possible, freezing can change the texture of cabbage. If freezing, store the chicken and vegetables separately from the sauce to prevent sogginess.

💡 Want more storage tips? Check out meal prep ideas for planning ahead!

2. Best Way to Reheat 🔥

Stovetop (Best Method): Heat in a pan over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, adding a splash of water to refresh the sauce.
Microwave (Quick Option): Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid uneven heating.

🔹 Tip: If reheating frozen stir-fry, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before warming up.

3. Make It a Meal Prep Dish 🍱

Cook a large batch and divide it into individual portions for easy lunches.
Store with rice or noodles in separate compartments to keep textures fresh.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your stir-fry fresh and flavorful anytime!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Here are some of the most common questions about making Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative because they are juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs take a bit longer to cook than breasts.

What type of cabbage works best for this recipe?

Green cabbage: Best for stir-fries because it stays crisp and holds up well to heat.
Napa cabbage: Sweeter and softer, great for a more delicate texture.
Purple cabbage: Works too, but has a slightly different flavor and firmer texture.

🔹 Want to know more about different cabbage varieties? Check out this cabbage guide.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! To make it gluten-free, substitute:

Tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce.
A gluten-free oyster sauce or skip it and add a little extra tamari.

How do I prevent the vegetables from getting soggy?

Use high heat and cook the veggies quickly.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if necessary.
Avoid covering the pan, as trapped steam can soften the vegetables too much.

💡 For more stir-fry tips, check out these wok cooking techniques.

Can I make this ahead of time for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and makes an excellent meal prep option. Just keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the best texture.

🔹 Looking for more meal prep ideas? Check out these easy stir-fry meal preps.

These FAQs should help you make the best possible stir-fry, no matter how you choose to customize it!

Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry – 15-Minute Recipe

Author: Christopher

Print Recipe

Description

This Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is the perfect quick and healthy meal! Juicy, tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and a rich, savory garlic-ginger sauce come together in just 15 minutes. Packed with high protein and low carbs, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a better-than-takeout experience at home. Serve it over rice, noodles, or on its own for a satisfying meal. Plus, it’s easily customizable—add some spice, swap the protein, or make it vegetarian!

Try this flavorful, easy stir-fry today and enjoy a homemade Asian-inspired meal in no time! 🔥🥢

Ingredients

Scale

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
3 cups cabbage, shredded
1 carrot, julienned
1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
3 green onions, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

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

Add the sliced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.

Add the cabbage, carrot, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and black pepper. Stir well to coat.

Pour in the cornstarch mixture and stir until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.

Toss in the green onions, mix well, and remove from heat.

Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

Protein Variations: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, beef, or pork for a different twist.
Vegetable Options: Add broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms, or bok choy for extra texture and flavor.
Make it Spicy: Add chili flakes, Sriracha, or fresh red chilies for extra heat.
Thickening Tip: If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch slurry slightly.
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop for best results.
Meal Prep Tip: Chop vegetables and marinate chicken ahead of time for an even faster cooking process!