Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick, flavorful, and budget-friendly Asian-inspired recipe that combines tender chicken breast with crisp cabbage, garlic, and a savory stir-fry sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, and anyone looking for a low-carb dinner recipe, high-protein meal plan idea, or healthy weight-loss friendly recipe.

This dish is popular in many Chinese home kitchens because it uses simple ingredients, cooks in under 20 minutes, and delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re following a keto diet plan, searching for easy Chinese recipes, or looking for a family-friendly dinner idea, this recipe checks all the boxes.

🥢 Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 small head Chinese cabbage (Napa cabbage), chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (optional but recommended)
2 green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil or avocado oil

For the Marinade:

1 tablespoon light soy sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Stir-Fry Sauce:

2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sugar or honey
2 tablespoons chicken broth or water
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for 10–15 minutes. This step keeps the chicken tender and juicy—similar to restaurant-quality Chinese takeout recipes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Use a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and swirl to coat the surface.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Sear for 3–4 minutes without stirring too much, allowing it to brown. Stir-fry until fully cooked, then remove and set aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry Aromatics

In the same pan, add garlic and ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 6: Add the Cabbage

Add chopped Napa cabbage and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes. The cabbage should soften slightly but still remain crisp.

Step 7: Combine and Finish

Return the chicken to the pan. Pour in the stir-fry sauce and toss everything together. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Garnish with green onions.

Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, cauliflower rice (for a low-carb option), or noodles.

🌟 Why This Recipe Works

High-protein meal prep idea – Lean chicken breast supports muscle growth and fat loss.
Low-carb and keto-friendly option – Skip the sugar and serve with cauliflower rice.
Budget-friendly family dinner – Simple, affordable ingredients.
Gluten-free adaptable – Use tamari or coconut aminos.
Quick 20-minute dinner recipe – Ideal for busy professionals.

This recipe fits well into healthy meal planning, clean eating lifestyles, and even diabetic-friendly dinner ideas when sugar is reduced.

🥗 Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving)

Calories: ~280–320
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 10–15g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 3g

Exact values vary depending on sauce and oil used.

🔥 Pro Tips for Restaurant-Style Stir-Fry

Use high heat – Authentic stir-fry relies on quick cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook chicken in batches if necessary.
Slice chicken evenly – Ensures even cooking.
Dry cabbage before cooking – Too much moisture prevents browning.
Add sesame oil at the end – Preserves aroma.

🥡 Variations & Customizations

Make It Spicy

Add chili garlic sauce or fresh Thai chili for a spicy Chinese chicken recipe variation.

Add More Vegetables

Include bell peppers, snow peas, carrots, or mushrooms for extra fiber and nutrients.

Swap the Protein

Use shrimp, tofu, ground turkey, or thinly sliced beef.

Low-Sodium Version

Use reduced-sodium soy sauce and skip oyster sauce.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (High-Intent Search Queries)

1. Is Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry healthy?

Yes. It’s high in protein, low in refined carbs, and rich in fiber. When prepared with minimal oil and low-sodium sauces, it’s a balanced, heart-healthy dinner recipe.

2. Can I use regular green cabbage instead of Napa cabbage?

Absolutely. Green cabbage works well but has a firmer texture. Slice it thinly for best results.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s excellent for healthy meal prep ideas and reheats well.

4. Can I freeze chicken cabbage stir-fry?

Yes, but cabbage may soften after thawing. Freeze for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers.

5. What’s the best oil for stir-fry?

Use high smoke-point oils like avocado oil, peanut oil, or vegetable oil for authentic Chinese cooking techniques.

6. How do I thicken stir-fry sauce?

Cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water) can help create a glossy, restaurant-style finish.

7. Is this recipe good for weight loss?

Yes. It’s a high-protein, low-calorie dinner option that keeps you full longer, making it ideal for weight management plans.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

With jasmine rice for a traditional Chinese dinner experience
Over zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly meal
With brown rice for a high-fiber whole-grain option
As lettuce wraps for a low-carb appetizer idea

🧄 Final Thoughts

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a versatile, nutritious, and flavor-packed recipe that rivals takeout—without the excess sodium or added sugars. Whether you’re focused on healthy dinner recipes, easy Asian meal prep, low-carb family meals, or high-protein budget-friendly dinners, this dish deserves a regular spot in your weekly rotation.