Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

A Healthy, Flavor-Packed Asian Dinner for Weight Loss, Meal Prep, and Busy Weeknights

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a classic Asian-inspired dish that brings together tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and savory aromatics in a light yet deeply satisfying sauce. This dish is widely loved for its simplicity, speed, and health benefits, making it one of the best options for anyone seeking healthy dinner ideas, low-carb meals, or quick weeknight recipes.

Unlike heavy takeout versions, this homemade stir-fry is low in calories, high in protein, naturally gluten-free (with substitutions), and perfect for weight-loss or clean eating lifestyles. It’s also incredibly budget-friendly and ideal for meal prep, making it popular among fitness enthusiasts, families, and professionals alike.

Why Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Is So Popular

This dish stands out because it hits multiple high-value food trends:

✅ Healthy Asian recipes
✅ Low-carb & keto-friendly meals
✅ High-protein dinner ideas
✅ Quick 30-minute recipes
✅ One-pan meals
✅ Weight-loss friendly foods

Cabbage is a nutritional powerhouse—low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in antioxidants—while chicken breast provides lean protein that supports muscle growth and fat loss. Combined with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, the result is a flavorful meal that tastes indulgent without being unhealthy.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Protein & Vegetables

1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-size pieces)
4 cups green cabbage (roughly chopped)
1 cup Napa cabbage or Chinese cabbage (optional but recommended)
½ cup green onions (chopped)
1 small carrot (julienned, optional)
1 red chili or ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

Aromatics

4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tbsp fresh ginger (minced)

Sauce

3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp honey or brown sugar (optional)
1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

Cooking Oil

2 tbsp vegetable oil, avocado oil, or sesame oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Keeping the chicken dry helps achieve a golden sear, which locks in flavor.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and swirl to coat the pan.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add chicken pieces in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to develop color, then stir-fry until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Aromatics

Add the remaining oil to the pan. Toss in garlic, ginger, and chili. Stir for 15–20 seconds until fragrant (do not burn).

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

Add cabbage, carrots, and green onions. Stir-fry on high heat for 3–5 minutes until cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.

Step 6: Sauce & Combine

Return chicken to the pan. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and honey. Stir well.

Step 7: Thicken

Add cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute until the sauce coats everything beautifully.

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot as-is, or over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.

Taste & Texture Profile

Flavor: Savory, umami-rich, lightly garlicky
Texture: Juicy chicken, tender-crisp cabbage
Aroma: Ginger, sesame, garlic
Finish: Clean and satisfying, not greasy

Health Benefits (High-CPM Wellness Keywords)

🥗 Weight Loss Friendly

This dish is naturally low in calories and carbohydrates, making it ideal for weight-loss meal plans and fat-burning diets.

💪 High-Protein Meal

Chicken breast delivers lean protein essential for muscle recovery and metabolism support.

❤️ Heart-Healthy

Cabbage contains antioxidants and fiber that support heart health and digestion.

🥑 Keto & Low-Carb Adaptable

Skip honey and use coconut aminos for a keto-friendly stir-fry.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Stores well for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken separately for best texture
Reheating: Use a pan instead of microwave for best flavor

Perfect for:

Weekly meal prep
Office lunches
Post-workout meals

Variations You’ll Love

Spicy Version

Add Szechuan peppercorns or chili oil.

Vegetarian Option

Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms.

Gluten-Free

Use tamari or coconut aminos.

Low-Sodium

Reduce soy sauce and add broth.

What to Serve With It

Steamed jasmine rice
Brown rice
Cauliflower rice (low-carb)
Rice noodles
Lettuce wraps

Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving)

Calories: ~280
Protein: ~32g
Carbs: ~10g
Fat: ~9g
Fiber: ~3g

(Values vary based on ingredients used)

Frequently Asked Questions (SEO + High-CPM Keywords)

Is Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry healthy?

Yes, it’s one of the healthiest Asian dinner recipes, low in calories and high in protein and fiber.

Can I eat this for weight loss?

Absolutely. This is a weight-loss friendly dinner that keeps you full without excess carbs.

Is this recipe keto or low-carb?

Yes, with minor substitutions, it’s perfect for keto diets and low-carb meal plans.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Fresh is best, but thawed frozen chicken works if fully dried before cooking.

Is cabbage good for digestion?

Yes. Cabbage supports gut health, digestion, and detoxification.

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

Yes, it’s one of the best meal-prep Asian recipes because it reheats well.

What oil is best for stir-fry?

Avocado oil or sesame oil are best for high-heat cooking.

How do I avoid soggy cabbage?

Use high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Final Thoughts

Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is more than just a quick meal—it’s a nutritious, budget-friendly, and versatile dish that fits nearly every modern diet. Whether you’re focused on healthy eating, weight loss, meal prep, or clean Asian cooking, this recipe deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.