Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a quick and delicious meal, and that’s exactly what you get with Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a busy weeknight, and I needed something that could be whipped up in no time. I had some fresh cabbage and tender chicken breasts in the fridge, and I thought, why not bring them together in a vibrant stir-fry? As the aromas filled my kitchen, I knew I had stumbled upon a new favorite. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition, making it the perfect go-to for any evening.
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
10 mins
25 mins
Easy
350 kcal
40 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
15 g
Skillet, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife
Why Try This Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
It’s Quick and Easy
One of the main reasons I love Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is how quickly it comes together. In less than thirty minutes, you can have a wholesome meal ready to serve. Perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want something delicious.
Wholesome Ingredients
This dish features fresh and nutritious ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The crunch of the cabbage, the protein from the chicken, and the aromatic garlic create a symphony of flavors that not only taste great but also nourish the body.
Customizable to Your Taste
Another aspect I appreciate about Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is its versatility. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your palate. Want to add some heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes. Prefer a sweeter touch? A hint of soy sauce can work wonders.
Family-Friendly
This dish is a hit with my family, and I think it will be with yours too. Kids often love the vibrant colors and the crispy texture of the cabbage, making it an easy way to sneak in some veggies without the complaints!
Great Leftovers
Leftovers from Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry are a delight. The flavors meld together beautifully overnight, making for a delicious lunch the next day. Just reheat it, and you’re good to go!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

When it comes to the ingredients for Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry, simplicity is key. The beauty of this dish lies in how a few basic components can come together to create something truly delightful. The star players are the tender chicken and the crisp cabbage, which together form a hearty and balanced meal.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – This oil provides a great base for frying and adds a rich flavor to the dish.
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces – The protein source that keeps you full and satisfied.
- Salt to taste – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your stir-fry.
- Black pepper to taste – Adds a lovely spice that complements the other ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter – Brings a wonderfully creamy richness to the sautĂ©ed onions.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the stir-fry.
- 1 medium green cabbage, cored and chopped – The main vegetable that provides crunch and a mild flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a hint of smokiness and vibrant color.
How to Assemble Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Assembling Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is easier than you might think. It’s all about prepping your ingredients and following a simple sequence. Trust me; this will soon become a staple in your kitchen.
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil shimmering but not smoking, indicating it’s hot enough for cooking.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning them with salt and black pepper. SautĂ© the chicken for about five to seven minutes, stirring frequently, until it’s cooked through and golden brown. The chicken should be no longer pink in the center.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. This step ensures the chicken stays juicy and doesn’t overcook.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for three minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Stir regularly to prevent burning and allow the onion to develop sweetness.
- Next, toss in the chopped cabbage and stir it in with the onions. Cook uncovered, stirring often, for ten to fifteen minutes. You want the cabbage to soften and become tender, cooking it down to your desired texture.
- After the cabbage has cooked down, mix in the minced garlic and paprika. Cook for an additional minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, making sure not to burn it as it can turn bitter.
- Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together, cooking until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve your hot stir-fry immediately! You can plate it up or even serve it straight from the skillet for a casual, family-style meal.
Things Worth Knowing
- Use a large skillet: A spacious skillet helps to evenly cook the ingredients without overcrowding.
- Chop ingredients uniformly: Cutting the chicken and cabbage into similar sizes ensures even cooking.
- Keep the heat high: Maintain medium-high heat to achieve that perfect stir-fry texture without steaming the ingredients.
- Flavor variations: Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrients.
Recipe Tips about Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Getting the most out of your Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is all about technique and thoughtful preparation. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the skillet for best results.
- Freezing: While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the cabbage might change. If you plan to freeze, consider waiting to add the cabbage until you reheat.
- Pairing: This stir-fry pairs beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Vegetable options: Experiment with seasonal vegetables. Broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers work wonderfully!
- Meal prep: Chop all your ingredients ahead of time to make cooking even quicker during busy weeknights.
Serving Options for Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
When it comes to serving Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry, there are plenty of delicious options to make the meal even more enjoyable:
- Over rice: Serve the stir-fry over a bed of steamed rice for a filling meal.
- With noodles: For a different twist, use your favorite noodles, such as egg noodles or rice noodles.
- As lettuce wraps: Spoon the stir-fry into large lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option.
- On its own: Enjoy it straight from the skillet for a simple, wholesome dish.
- Garnished: Top with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
- Perfect for gatherings: This dish is great for casual dinners or family meals, bringing everyone together around the table.
FAQ
Conclusion
In essence, Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a fantastic dish that combines ease and flavor to create a satisfying meal for any night of the week. Its versatility allows for endless customization, making it perfect for everyone. I encourage you to give it a try; it’s not just delicious but also an excellent way to introduce more vegetables into your diet. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and sauté until cooked through, about five to seven minutes, stirring often. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the onion for three minutes until translucent.
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and cook uncovered, stirring often, for ten to fifteen minutes until the cabbage is soft, or to your desired tenderness.
- Mix in the minced garlic and paprika, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stir well, and cook until heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve the stir-fry hot.
Notes
- Tip 1: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the skillet for best results.
- Tip 2: While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the cabbage might change. If you plan to freeze, consider waiting to add the cabbage until you reheat.
- Tip 3: This stir-fry pairs beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Tip 4: Experiment with seasonal vegetables. Broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers work wonderfully!
- Tip 5: Chop all your ingredients ahead of time to make cooking even quicker during busy weeknights.


