There’s something irresistibly satisfying about a quick and healthy stir fry. Not only does it come together in a matter of minutes, but it also delivers a punch of flavors and nutrients. Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry—a dish that’s as vibrant as it is nourishing! With tender chunks of chicken, colorful veggies, and a medley of spices, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.

Top Reasons to Make Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich vegetables, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
Versatile: You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have at home.
Flavorful: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously satisfying dish.

Ingredient Notes

4 tablespoons olive oil: A healthy fat that adds flavor and helps cook the chicken and vegetables evenly.
1 ½ lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts: Cut into small pieces for quick cooking; thighs add moisture while breasts are leaner.
1 medium cabbage: Sliced into thin strips; it adds crunch and is a great source of vitamins.
1 onion: Diced; it provides a sweet and savory base flavor.
4 cloves garlic: Minced; it adds aromatic goodness and depth to the dish.
2 medium carrots: Shredded; for a pop of color and natural sweetness.
1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
1 teaspoon dried basil: A fragrant herb that enhances the overall taste.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: Offers an earthy note that pairs well with the other ingredients.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Provides a rich, umami flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: A flavorful base that keeps the stir fry moist.
Salt and pepper: To taste; essential for seasoning the dish.
Chopped fresh parsley: For garnish; adds a fresh finish to the dish.

Setup & Equipment

Large skillet or wok: Essential for even cooking and to give you plenty of space to stir the ingredients.
Cutting board and knife: For chopping vegetables and cutting the chicken.
Measuring spoons: To ensure the right balance of spices and ingredients.
Wooden spatula or tongs: For stirring and flipping the chicken and vegetables.
Serving plates: For plating your beautiful stir fry!

Cook Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Like This

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing and slicing your cabbage into thin strips. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and shred the carrots. Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. Having everything prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process seamless.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to get hot, shimmering but not smoking.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and shredded carrots, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Add the Cabbage

Stir in the sliced cabbage and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until it starts to wilt.

Step 6: Incorporate the Spices

Once the cabbage is tender, sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried basil, and oregano. Stir to combine the spices with the vegetables.

Step 7: Add the Tomato Paste and Broth

Next, stir in the tomato paste and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for a few minutes.

Step 8: Return the Chicken

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken is coated in the flavorful sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.

Step 9: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Give your stir fry a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 10: Serve and Garnish

Remove the skillet from heat. Plate the Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Fit It to Your Goals

Low-carb: Serve it over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice to keep the carbs low.
Higher protein: Add more chicken or toss in some chickpeas for extra protein.
Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based twist.
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a kick of heat.

Missteps & Fixes

Even the best of us can have a misstep in the kitchen! Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

Too salty: If your stir fry turns out too salty, balance it with a splash of vinegar or a bit of sugar.
Overcooked chicken: If your chicken is dry, consider adding a bit more chicken broth to moisten the dish.
Burnt garlic: If your garlic burns, it can turn bitter. Next time, add it after the onions have softened.
Too watery: If your stir fry is too soupy, let it simmer longer to reduce the sauce.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry is perfect for meal prep! Here are some tips for making ahead and storing:

Make-ahead: You can prep all your vegetables and chicken the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge.
Leftovers: Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the stir fry for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

FAQ

Can I use other vegetables in this stir fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.

What can I serve with Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry?

This stir fry is delicious on its own, but you can serve it over rice, quinoa, or even noodles for a heartier meal.

Can I make this stir fry in advance?

Yes! You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just cook it when you’re ready to eat!

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

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Serve & Enjoy

There you have it! A vibrant, flavorful Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry that’s not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. This dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re enjoying it for dinner or packing it for lunch, it’s a satisfying choice that never disappoints. So grab your skillet, and let’s get cooking! Enjoy your delicious creation and the joy that comes with a nourishing home-cooked meal.