Stir-frying has been a beloved cooking technique in Asian cuisine for centuries. This method preserves the nutrients, texture, and color of the ingredients, making each bite vibrant and flavorful. The Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Frytakes advantage of this cooking style, featuring a harmony of vegetables and juicy chicken slices lightly coated in a savory sauce. This recipe brings together the best of comfort food and healthy eating, offering a satisfying meal that you can enjoy any night of the week.
Why We Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry has become a favorite:
- Healthy and Nutritious: With ingredients like cabbage, peppers, garlic, and lean chicken, this recipe is packed with nutrients. Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, while chicken is a great source of lean protein.
- Quick and Convenient: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Versatile: The combination of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and chicken stock creates a savory, umami-rich flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the vegetables. Plus, you can easily customize the recipe by adding other veggies or switching up the protein.
- Economical: With basic pantry ingredients and vegetables, this stir-fry is budget-friendly, allowing you to make a wholesome meal without overspending.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: The stir-fry holds up well in the fridge, making it a good choice for meal prep. It’s just as delicious reheated, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.
Ingredients
To make this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tbsp butter: Adds a bit of richness to the stir-fry.
- 1 medium onion, sliced: For a slightly sweet and savory flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth to the dish.
- 1/2 head green cabbage, shredded: Provides crunch and a slight sweetness.
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced: Lean protein that cooks quickly and stays juicy.
- 1/2 jalapeño pepper, finely diced: Adds a hint of heat. Adjust according to taste.
- 1 orange pepper, diced: Adds color, sweetness, and a bit of crunch.
- 1/2 cup chicken stock: Enhances the flavor and keeps the stir-fry moist.
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce: Provides a rich, savory umami flavor.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce: Adds saltiness and a hint of umami.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Balances and enhances the overall flavor.
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Thinly slice the onion and chicken breasts, mince the garlic, shred the cabbage, and dice the jalapeño and orange pepper. Having everything ready will make the stir-frying process faster and smoother.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts and cook until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic, jalapeño, and orange pepper, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add the Cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet, stirring everything together. Pour in the chicken stock, which will help to soften the cabbage and create a light sauce. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crunchy.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the oyster sauce and soy sauce, stirring well to ensure that the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauces. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve your Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry hot with a side of steamed rice or noodles.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional profile of Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry per serving (based on four servings):
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Protein: 22 grams
- Carbohydrates: 18 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Fat: 9 grams
This dish is relatively low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a good option for those who are calorie-conscious or on a low-carb diet. It’s also high in protein, helping you stay full and energized.
FAQs
1. Can I substitute other vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible, so you can add or substitute vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so all the veggies cook evenly.
2. Is there an alternative to oyster sauce?
Yes, you can use hoisin sauce as a substitute for oyster sauce. However, note that hoisin has a slightly sweeter flavor. You could also try mushroom sauce, which has a similar umami flavor.
3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you enjoy a bit more heat, you can leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! To make a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or more vegetables. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock and replace the oyster sauce with a vegetarian alternative.
5. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare and store this stir-fry in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
6. What are some suggested sides?
This stir-fry pairs well with steamed white or brown rice, cauliflower rice, or stir-fried noodles. You could also enjoy it on its own for a low-carb meal option.
7. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, you’ll need to use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and ensure the oyster sauce is also gluten-free. Most of the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a delightful and easy-to-make recipe that captures the essence of Asian flavors without any hassle. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and flavorful sauces creates a delicious meal that’s sure to please. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a versatile meal for meal prep, this stir-fry is an excellent choice.
So why wait? Gather up these simple ingredients and bring a taste of Asian-inspired cooking into your kitchen. Enjoy this recipe on its own or with a side of rice or noodles, and savor each bite of this savory, nutritious, and satisfying meal!