Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

This Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry is a lightning-fast meal packed with savory umami flavors, vibrant crunch, and just the right hint of sweetness. It comes together in under 30 minutes and requires only one pan, making it a weeknight hero in every sense.

With tender bites of chicken, crisp napa or green cabbage, and a soy-garlic sauce that clings to every ingredient, this dish is both nourishing and comforting. Whether you’re serving it over rice or enjoying it as a low-carb option on its own, this stir fry delivers a satisfying, better-than-takeout experience right from your kitchen.

---

What Kind of Cabbage Works Best in Stir Fry?

Napa cabbage is often preferred for stir fries thanks to its tender texture and subtly sweet flavor. However, regular green cabbage works beautifully too and holds up well to high heat. The key is to slice it thin so it cooks quickly and soaks up the delicious sauce.

---

Ingredients for the Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), thinly sliced
• 4 cups cabbage, shredded (napa or green)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon water (to mix with cornstarch)
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving (optional)

---

How To Make the Easy Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Veggies

Slice your chicken into thin, even strips and shred the cabbage. Mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and slice the green onions.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add sesame oil. Toss in the garlic, ginger, and green onions. Stir quickly to avoid burning and release their aroma, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage

Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still vibrant.

Step 5: Combine and Sauce

Return the chicken to the pan. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce. If using cornstarch, mix it with water and add it in to slightly thicken the sauce. Add red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and garnish with extra green onions. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a full meal.

---

How to Serve and Store This Stir Fry

Serve your stir fry hot right out of the skillet with a bowl of jasmine rice or lo mein noodles. For a lighter meal, skip the grains and enjoy it on its own—the cabbage and chicken are filling enough!

To store leftovers, cool the stir fry and place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of chili garlic sauce while cooking.

Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms make excellent additions.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce and check your oyster sauce label to keep it gluten-free.

What kind of chicken works best?

Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving, but breasts work fine if you slice them thin.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, swap chicken for tofu and use a vegetarian oyster sauce.

Do I have to use oyster sauce?

No, but it adds depth. You can sub hoisin or a bit more soy sauce for a similar savory touch.

---

Want More Stir Fry & Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this quick chicken stir fry hit the spot, you might love these tasty options too:

• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for something saucier and rich.
• One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles when you’re craving cozy comfort.
• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta for a creamy, indulgent twist.
• Healthy Sausage Veggie Skillet Meal if you’re looking for more veggie-packed options.
• Nutella French Toast Casserole for a sweet breakfast-for-dinner vibe.

---

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board for easy, healthy dinners!

Let me know how yours turned out. Did you go spicy or mild? Add mushrooms or use chicken breast?

Comment below to share your version or ask any questions—I love seeing your kitchen creations. And for even more quick, crave-worthy meals, follow me on Pinterest @NinaDishes.

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?