Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken strips, crisp cabbage, and vibrant peppers in a savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or when you want a quick yet satisfying meal. With its balance of flavors and textures, it stands out as an easy-to-make favorite for any occasion.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chicken
- For the Vegetables
- For the Sauce
- How to Make Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
- Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
- Step 4: Add Sauce Ingredients
- Step 5: Combine Everything
- How to Serve Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
- With Rice
- In Lettuce Wraps
- Over Noodles
- Topped with Fresh Herbs
- As a Salad
- How to Perfect Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
- Best Side Dishes for Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
- Reheating Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I customize my Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry?
- Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
- What side dishes go well with Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry?
- How long does it take to make Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: The entire dish can be made in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
- Flavorful: The combination of chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory sauces creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins, allowing you to customize each stir-fry to your liking.
- Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and colorful veggies, this meal is both nutritious and delicious.
- One-Pan Wonder: With minimal cleanup required, this recipe makes cooking and serving easy.
Tools and Preparation
To make Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet or wok: Essential for even cooking and allows for plenty of space to toss ingredients without spilling.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing vegetables and chicken, ensuring clean cuts.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping faster and safer.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee the perfect balance of flavors in your sauce.

Ingredients
A quick stir-fry combining tender chicken strips with crisp cabbage and peppers in a flavorful sauce. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
For the Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 head green cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 jalapeño pepper, finely diced
- 1 orange pepper, diced
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Pinch of salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Thinly slice the chicken breasts into strips. Slice the onion and orange pepper, mince the garlic, finely dice the jalapeño pepper, and shred the green cabbage.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and stir-fry until cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In the same skillet, add sliced onion. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Next, add minced garlic and jalapeño; cook for 1 minute. Finally, add shredded cabbage and diced orange pepper to the skillet.
Step 4: Add Sauce Ingredients
Pour in chicken stock, oyster sauce, and soy sauce. Stir well to coat all vegetables evenly. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until cabbage is tender-crisp.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Mix well with vegetables and sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Adjust seasoning if needed.
With these steps complete, you have a delicious Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry ready to serve! Enjoy this healthy meal with family or friends any night of the week.
How to Serve Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
This Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is not just delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience.
With Rice
- Serve the stir-fry over a bed of steamed white or brown rice for a filling meal.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Spoon the stir-fry mixture into fresh lettuce leaves for a low-carb option that’s crunchy and refreshing.
Over Noodles
- Pair the stir-fry with cooked noodles, such as rice noodles or whole wheat spaghetti, for added texture and flavor.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions to add freshness and color to your dish.
As a Salad
- Let the stir-fry cool slightly and toss it into a salad for a nutritious lunch option that’s packed with protein and veggies.
How to Perfect Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
To achieve the best results with your Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry, consider these helpful tips.
- Slice chicken thinly: Thin strips ensure quick cooking and tender texture.
- Prep ingredients ahead: Have all vegetables and sauces ready before cooking to streamline the process.
- Use high heat: Cooking on medium-high heat allows vegetables to remain crisp while chicken cooks through.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If making a larger batch, cook in batches to avoid steaming the chicken and veggies.
- Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning during cooking for optimal flavor balance.
- Add crunch at the end: Consider adding nuts or seeds just before serving for extra texture.
Best Side Dishes for Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
Pairing side dishes with your Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while complementing the flavors of the stir-fry.
- Quinoa: A fluffy quinoa side offers protein and fiber, making it a nutritious alternative to rice.
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for those who enjoy a comforting carb alongside their meal.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a hearty side that contrasts nicely with the savory stir-fry.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad seasoned with vinegar can balance out the richness of the dish.
- Fried Rice: For more carbs, serve fried rice made with leftover rice for an easy yet satisfying pairing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Stir-frying can be a quick and easy way to prepare meals, but there are common mistakes that can affect the quality of your dish. Here are some tips to avoid them:
Overcrowding the pan: This leads to steaming rather than frying. Make sure you have enough space for the chicken and vegetables to cook evenly.
Using low heat: Cooking on low heat can prevent proper browning. Use medium-high heat for a quick stir-fry that enhances flavors and textures.
Not prepping ingredients ahead: Preparing your ingredients beforehand ensures everything cooks evenly and efficiently. Chop, slice, and measure out all ingredients before you start cooking.
Skipping the marinade: Neglecting to marinate chicken can result in bland flavors. A simple marinade with soy sauce or broth can make a big difference.
Ignoring cooking time for vegetables: Different vegetables have varying cooking times. Add them according to how long they need to soften for a balanced dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place stir-fry in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Transfer stir-fry to a microwave-safe dish. Cover and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken stock if needed and stir until heated through, about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry:
How do I customize my Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry?
You can add other vegetables like carrots or broccoli for extra crunch and nutrition. Feel free to adjust the sauces based on your taste preference.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb depending on your preference or dietary needs.
What side dishes go well with Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also serve it with a simple salad for added freshness.
How long does it take to make Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry?
The total time is approximately 35 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Final Thoughts
Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to incorporate various vegetables or proteins as desired. Try it tonight for a healthy meal that comes together in no time!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken with crisp cabbage and colorful peppers, all coated in a savory sauce. This easy-to-make stir-fry is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious yet healthy. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you can enjoy a flavorful meal that’s packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables. Customize it with your favorite ingredients for a unique twist!
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 head green cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 jalapeño pepper, finely diced
- 1 orange bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by slicing the chicken, onion, and bell peppers; mincing the garlic; and shredding the cabbage.
- In a large skillet or wok, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips and season with salt and pepper. Stir-fry until cooked through (5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion until softened (about 3 minutes). Add garlic and jalapeño; cook for another minute.
- Add cabbage and orange bell pepper; pour in chicken stock, oyster sauce, and soy sauce. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cabbage is tender-crisp.
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Mix well with veggies and sauce; heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg





