Easy 20-Min Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry

This chicken and cabbage stir fry is not only healthy but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender chicken with crisp cabbage, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrition. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or seasonings. Furthermore, it’s a one-pan recipe, so cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this chicken and cabbage stir fry is a must-try!

Ever craved a tasty meal but didn’t want to spend hours cooking? Your search ends here. Our Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry is the answer. It’s quick, delicious, and ready in 20 minutes.

This dish combines tender chicken, soft cabbage, and savory flavors. It’s inspired by the rich tastes of Central Europe. It shows that simple ingredients can make a big impact.

Key Takeaways

• Delicious and efficient 20-minute meal
• Combines tender chicken with soft, flavorful cabbage
• Inspired by Czech and Central European cuisine
• Affordable and requires minimal seasoning
• Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep

What Makes This Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Special

This chicken and cabbage stir fry is special because it’s a healthy one-pan meal. It has a great mix of flavors and textures. The chicken is tender, and the cabbage, bell peppers, and cashews are crunchy.

This makes every bite a delight. It’s a perfect mix of sensations.

Perfect Balance of Flavors and Textures

The dish gets even better with a Honey Sriracha sauce. It’s sweet and spicy at the same time. The honey balances out the Sriracha’s heat, creating a unique taste. Easy Chicken Cabbage Recipe

Budget-Friendly Ingredients

This high protein recipe is also affordable. Ingredients like cabbage, ground chicken, and bell peppers are cheap. Cabbage is especially good because it’s cheap and lasts a long time.

Time-Saving Preparation

This chicken and cabbage stir fry is quick to make, just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy nights. You can make a healthy meal fast, without spending hours cooking.

Essential Ingredients for Your Stir Fry Success

Making a tasty vegetable stir fry or a delicious chinese stir fry cuisine begins with the right ingredients. The base of this chicken and cabbage stir fry recipe includes:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast
• Green cabbage
• Onion
• Garlic
• Paprika
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Salt and pepper

To add more depth and complexity, consider adding:

1. Honey
2. Sriracha
3. Dry sherry or Shaoxing wine
4. White vinegar
5. Bell peppers
6. Cashews
7. Green onions

This recipe is very flexible. You can try different vegetables and proteins to match your taste or what you have. The goal is to mix flavors and textures that will make your taste buds happy.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make the perfect stir fry, you need the right tools and equipment. From cookware to utensils, the right setup is key. It helps achieve the perfect mix of flavors and textures.

Recommended Cookware

A good wok or large skillet is essential for stir fry. Choose one that conducts heat well for even cooking. Stainless steel or carbon steel woks are great because they handle high heat well.

Essential Utensils

Having the right utensils is also important. A strong pair of kitchen tongs helps mix ingredients easily. A sharp knife or Chinese cleaver makes chopping veggies and proteins quick. And a heat-resistant spatula is great for stirring and scraping.

Time-Saving Gadgets

• Garlic press: Crush fresh garlic effortlessly to infuse your stir fry with its aromatic flavor.
• Instant-read thermometer: Ensure your chicken or protein is cooked to the perfect temperature for food safety and doneness.
• Vegetable spiralizer: Create fun, noodle-like shapes from vegetables like zucchini or carrots to add texture and visual appeal.

Having the right stir fry cooking equipment and kitchen essentials for stir fry makes cooking easier. You can then make delicious, restaurant-quality stir fry dishes with ease.

Preparing Your Ingredients the Right Way

Getting your ingredients ready is crucial for a great stir fry. Cut your chicken into small pieces for even cooking. Make sure to chop the cabbage and other veggies the same size for even cooking.

Finely mince the garlic and ginger. This helps their flavors burst out quickly when you cook.

For the stir fry sauce, measure everything ahead of time. This makes adding the right amounts easy, ensuring a tasty sauce. Having everything ready before you start cooking is key for a smooth stir-fry.

Vegetable Cutting Techniques

• Slice the cabbage into thin, even strips for a tender-crisp texture.
• Julienne the bell pepper and onion for a visually appealing presentation.
• Mince the garlic and ginger finely to evenly distribute their flavors.
• Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes or thin strips for quick and even cooking.

Stir Fry Preparation Tips

1. Gather all your prepped ingredients near the stove for easy access during cooking.
2. Measure the stir fry sauce ingredients and have them ready to add at the appropriate time.
3. Chop the vegetables and protein into similar-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
4. Mince the aromatics, like garlic and ginger, to release their flavors quickly.

By spending time on proper ingredient prep, you’re on your way to a tasty stir fry. This focus on detail ensures your dish will be both flavorful and beautiful.

The Secret to Perfect Stir-Fried Chicken

Getting the perfect stir-fried chicken is all about technique and timing. To keep the chicken tender and juicy, focus on how you cut and cook it.

Proper Cutting Techniques

Start by cutting the chicken into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and prevents overcooking. Aim for 1-inch cubes or strips that are no thicker than 1/2 inch. You want pieces that sear quickly in the hot wok or skillet.

Ideal Cooking Temperature

Cook the chicken over medium-high to high heat for the best results. This high heat sears the outside while keeping the inside moist. Cook the chicken in a single layer, allowing it to brown on one side before turning to cook the other side.

Timing and Doneness

• Cook the chicken for 2-4 minutes per side, until it’s browned and cooked through.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – work in batches if needed to maintain the high heat.
• The chicken is done when it’s no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.
• To ensure the chicken remains tender, remove it from the pan once it’s nearly cooked through, then add it back in towards the end of the stir-fry process.

By using these chicken stir fry techniques for cooking chicken for stir fry, you’ll get perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time. The key is in the cutting, cooking temperature, and timing. Master these, and you’ll be on your way to stir-fry success.

How to Cut and Prepare Cabbage for Stir Frying

Preparing cabbage for a stir-fry is easy and can make your dish better. Start by removing the outer leaves and discarding the core. This makes a clean, crisp base.

Then, use a chef’s knife to cut the cabbage into small chunks. You’ll need about 6 cups of chopped cabbage, which is a 2-pound head after removing the outer leaves and core. You can use green, red, or both for a colorful dish.

If you want a softer texture, try Savoy cabbage. It wilts down more during stir-frying. Napa cabbage is also good, cooking quickly and staying slightly soft.

Cutting the cabbage into uniform pieces ensures even cooking. With your cabbage ready, you’re almost there to make a tasty chicken and cabbage stir-fry.

Creating the Perfect Stir Fry Sauce

Improving your chicken and cabbage stir fry starts with the right sauce. This key ingredient can turn a basic dish into a tasty masterpiece. Let’s look at what makes the best stir fry sauce.

Base Ingredients

Begin with a strong base of honey, Sriracha, dry sherry (or Shaoxing wine), white vinegar, and salt. This mix offers a sweet, spicy, and tangy taste that goes well with the stir fry.

Flavor Enhancers

• Soy sauce or coconut aminos for a savory depth of flavor
• Fish sauce or tamari for an umami boost
• Fresh ginger or garlic for an aromatic punch

Sauce Consistency Tips

To get the sauce just right, mix chicken broth and cornstarch. This trick makes the sauce stick to the stir-fried food, giving it a smooth texture. Adjust the Sriracha to your liking, and make the sauce ahead of time for easier prep.

Mastering the stir fry sauce can take your chicken and cabbage stir fry to the next level. It brings together flavors that will excite your taste buds. Try different ingredients and adjust to your taste for a unique dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Get ready to make a tasty chicken and cabbage stir fry in just 20 minutes! This quick recipe is great for busy weeknights. It’s a perfect way to use the stir fry cooking method. Let’s go through the steps to make this healthy and flavorful dish.

1. First, heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and once it’s shimmering, add the cubed chicken. Stir fry the chicken until it’s lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger and stir fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Next, add the shredded cabbage and sliced bell pepper. Stir fry the vegetables for 3-4 minutes, until they start to soften.
4. Pour in the prepared stir fry sauce and let it simmer, covered, for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and broth. Slowly pour this mixture into the stir fry, stirring constantly, to thicken the sauce.
6. Finally, return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir fry everything together for 2-3 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has reached your desired consistency.
7. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the sliced scallions or chopped cilantro, along with a handful of roasted cashews.

And that’s it! In just 20 minutes, you’ve mastered the stir fry cooking method to create a delicious and chicken and cabbage stir fry that’s sure to please the whole family. Bon appétit!

Nutritional Benefits and Health Advantages

This healthy stir fry dish with chicken and cabbage is tasty and full of nutrients. It has about 256 calories, 27g of protein, 17g of carbs, and 10g of fat. It’s a balanced meal that keeps you full.

Cabbage is a nutritional superstar. One cup of cooked cabbage has just 33 calories but lots of fiber for your gut. It’s also packed with vitamins, especially vitamin C, which boosts your immune system. Plus, red cabbage’s anthocyanins help your brain stay sharp.

• Cabbage is related to kale, broccoli, and cauliflower, all superfoods.
• Eating cabbage daily can make your brain feel 11 years younger.
• Red cabbage’s betalains fight inflammation, great for arthritis or gout.

The chicken in this dish is a big source of protein. Protein is key for muscle health. Chicken and cabbage together make a meal that’s good for you.

“Eating leafy green vegetables like cabbage may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.”

If you want to feel better, lose weight, or just eat well, try this chicken and cabbage stir fry. Add it to your meals for more vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing Options

The easy 20-minute chicken and cabbage stir fry is a versatile dish. It pairs well with many sides. You can choose traditional options or modern alternatives to complete this flavorful meal.

Traditional Sides

• White rice
• Brown rice
• Noodles

Modern Alternatives

• Cauliflower rice
• Zoodles (zucchini noodles)
• Spiralized vegetables

The chicken and cabbage stir fry has bold flavors. Simple side dishes are best to complement it. For extra texture and look, try garnishing with:

Garnishing Ideas

• Extra green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Chopped cashews

To make a complete meal, pair the stir fry with a light soup or salad. This combo is satisfying and nutritious.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Storing and reheating your chicken and cabbage stir fry is easy. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best taste, add cashews just before serving.

To reheat, use a non-stick skillet with a splash of chicken broth. Cover and heat over medium-high, stirring often, until hot. Or, microwave for about 2 minutes per serving. The flavors get even better after a day.

If you have questions about storing stir fry or reheating stir fry leftovers, ask away. Following these tips will keep your stir fry fresh and tasty for days.

Conclusion

It’s great for adding more veggies to your diet or for a tasty protein dish. You can make it your own, pleasing everyone in your family. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal to add to your regular menu.

This 20-minute Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s delicious, versatile, and quick to make. It’s a great choice for easy weeknight dinners and quick stir fry meals.

This stir fry is a hit for its speed, taste, and health benefits. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures. You’ll be proud to make a nutritious meal in just 20 minutes.

FAQ

What makes this Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry special?

This stir fry is special because it combines tender chicken and stir-fried cabbage. It also has bell peppers, crunchy cashews, and green onions. The Honey Sriracha sauce adds a sweet and spicy touch.

What are the key ingredients in this recipe?

The main ingredients are boneless skinless chicken breast, green cabbage, and onion. You’ll also need garlic, paprika, olive oil, butter, salt, and pepper. Honey, Sriracha, and dry sherry or Shaoxing wine add depth. Bell peppers, cashews, and green onions are also used.

What kitchen tools and equipment are needed for this recipe?

You’ll need a large skillet or wok and kitchen tongs. An instant read thermometer is important for chicken doneness. A garlic press makes garlic prep easier. Choose cookware that heats evenly.

How do I properly prepare the ingredients for this stir fry?

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Chop cabbage and vegetables into uniform sizes. Mince garlic and ginger finely for quick flavor release. Pre-measure sauce ingredients for easy addition during cooking.

What’s the secret to cooking perfect stir-fried chicken?

Cut chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Cook in a single layer over medium-high heat until browned on the bottom. Then, turn and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

How do I properly prepare the cabbage for this stir fry?

Remove the outer leaves and core of the cabbage. Chop it into small, bite-sized chunks. Aim for about 6 cups of chopped cabbage, which is roughly equivalent to a 2-pound cabbage after discarding the outer leaves and core.

How do I create the perfect stir fry sauce?

The stir fry sauce combines honey, Sriracha, dry sherry (or Shaoxing wine), white vinegar, and salt. This blend creates a balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. For added depth, consider incorporating soy sauce, coconut aminos, fish sauce, or tamari. To thicken the sauce, mix chicken broth with cornstarch.

What is the step-by-step cooking process for this stir fry?

Start by cooking the chicken in oil over high heat until browned. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, stir-fry garlic and ginger, then add cabbage and bell pepper. Pour in the sauce and cook covered until the cabbage wilts. Add the cornstarch-broth mixture to thicken, then return the chicken to the pan. Cook until the chicken is done and cabbage is tender. Finally, stir in scallions or cilantro and cashews.

What are the nutritional benefits and health advantages of this dish?

A typical serving contains approximately 256 calories, 27g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It’s rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the cabbage and bell peppers. The dish is high in protein from the chicken, making it satisfying and beneficial for muscle health. The cabbage provides fiber, supporting digestive health.

What are some serving suggestions and pairing options for this stir fry?

This stir fry pairs well with various sides, including white rice, brown rice, or noodles. For lower-carb alternatives, try cauliflower rice, zoodles, or spiralized vegetables. The dish is flavorful on its own, so simple sides work best. Garnish with extra green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped cashews for added texture and visual appeal. Easy Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

How do I store leftovers and reheat this stir fry?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, add cashews just before serving rather than storing them with the leftovers. To reheat, use a non-stick skillet with a splash of chicken broth, cover, and heat over medium-high, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave for about 2 minutes per serving.

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