Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
Light Mediterranean-Style Weeknight Stir-Fry
Description
Tender chicken strips are quickly stir-fried with crisp cabbage, garlic, and ginger in a glossy soy-based sauce. This version keeps things lighter by using olive oil instead of heavy oils and balancing the flavors with a touch of lemon and herbs—ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for a healthy dinner.
Ingredients
Stir-Fry
-
2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
-
3 cups green cabbage, thinly shredded
-
1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
-
1 tsp sesame oil (for aroma)
-
3 garlic cloves, minced
-
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
-
2 green onions, sliced
-
1 small carrot, julienned (optional)
Sauce
-
3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
-
1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional but flavorful)
-
1 tsp honey or brown sugar
-
1 tsp cornstarch
-
2 tbsp water
-
½ tsp black pepper
-
½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Optional Garnish
-
Sesame seeds
-
Fresh cilantro or parsley
Instructions
-
Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, cornstarch, water, pepper, and chili flakes. Set aside. -
Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil and sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
Add chicken and stir-fry 4–5 minutes until lightly golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside. -
Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add garlic and ginger. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add cabbage and carrots. Stir-fry 3–4 minutes until just tender but still crisp. -
Combine & Sauce
Return chicken to the pan. Pour in the sauce and toss well.
Cook 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything. -
Finish & Serve
Stir in green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot 🍽️
Serving Ideas
-
Serve over steamed rice or brown rice
-
Pair with noodles or cauliflower rice
-
Enjoy as a light, low-carb meal on its own
Q & A
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
A: Yes! Thighs are juicier and very flavorful—just slice thinly.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: Mild by default. Add chili flakes or chili oil if you like heat.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and skip oyster sauce or use a GF version.
Q: Can I meal-prep this?
A: Absolutely. Store in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat quickly in a pan.
Q: What other veggies can I add?
A: Bell peppers, mushrooms, snow peas, or zucchini work great.

