Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing the chicken into thin strips. Prepare the cabbage by shredding or chopping it into bite-sized pieces. Slice the onion, mince the garlic, and grate or mince the ginger. Having everything ready to go makes stir-frying a lot easier and faster!

2. Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the pan, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes or until the onion softens and becomes translucent. This will infuse the oil with those aromatic flavors that are the base of a great stir-fry.

4. Add the Cabbage

Add the shredded cabbage to the pan, stirring constantly. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage begins to soften but still has a slight crunch. If you like your cabbage a bit more tender, you can cook it for a few minutes longer.

5. Prepare the Sauce

While the cabbage is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce (if using), sesame oil, and white pepper. Add the sauce to the pan, along with the chicken broth (or water), and stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.

6. Combine the Chicken and Cabbage

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stirring to coat it in the sauce. Cook everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to reheat. Taste the stir-fry and adjust seasoning, adding a bit more soy sauce, vinegar, or pepper if desired.

7. Serve and Garnish

Once everything is well combined, remove the pan from the heat. Serve the stir-fry hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry:

• Use a Wok or Large Skillet: A wok works best for stir-fries because it allows the ingredients to cook quickly and evenly, but any large skillet will work if you don’t have one.
• Cut Ingredients Evenly: Slice the chicken and vegetables evenly so that they cook uniformly. This will ensure every bite is perfectly cooked.
• Customize the Veggies: While cabbage is the star of this dish, feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. They add extra texture, color, and nutrients to the dish.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a few red pepper flakes or some sliced fresh chili peppers to the stir-fry for a spicy kick.
• Low-Sodium Options: If you’re concerned about sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce and broth, and reduce or omit the hoisin sauce.

Why This Stir-Fry is a Great Meal:

• Lean Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and when paired with cabbage (which is low in calories but high in fiber and nutrients), it makes for a well-balanced meal that keeps you full and satisfied.
• Packed with Veggies: Cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s great for digestion, supports your immune system, and is high in fiber to help keep you full longer.
• Flavorful and Low-Calorie: This stir-fry is full of bold, savory flavors from the soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, but it remains low in calories—making it a great option for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts:

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a perfect weeknight dinner that’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a healthier meal or need something simple to prepare after a busy day, this stir-fry is an ideal choice. The combination of tender chicken, crispy cabbage, and savory sauce is sure to become a favorite in your household.

So, next time you’re craving a nutritious and satisfying dish, give this stir-fry a try! It’s simple, customizable, and absolutely delicious—your taste buds will thank you!