Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a quick stir-fry that brings a burst of color and flavor to your dinner table. This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry has become a favorite in our household, especially during busy weeknights. It’s packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a delightful blend of sauces that harmonize beautifully. My family loves the crunch of the cabbage and the slight kick from the jalapeño, making each bite exciting. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up, which means more time spent enjoying dinner and less time in the kitchen!

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 head green cabbage, shredded
• 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 1/2 jalapeño pepper, finely diced
• 1 orange pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup chicken stock
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

1. Thinly slice the chicken breasts into strips.
2. Slice the onion and orange pepper.
3. Mince the garlic and finely dice the jalapeño pepper.
4. Shred the cabbage.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. In a large skillet or wok, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until cooked through and browned.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Using the same skillet, add the onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the garlic and jalapeño, cooking for another minute.
3. Add the shredded cabbage and diced orange pepper, followed by the chicken stock. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Add Sauces

1. Stir in the oyster sauce and soy sauce, ensuring the vegetables are evenly coated.
2. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender yet slightly crisp.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Return the chicken to the skillet and mix with the vegetables and sauce.
2. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through and allow the flavors to meld.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the stir-fry hot, either on its own or over a bed of steamed rice or noodles.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 320

Nutrition Breakdown (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve hot straight from the skillet.
• Pair with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation.
• Add a side of pickled vegetables for extra crunch and tang.
• Consider serving with a light soy sauce or chili sauce for dipping.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken.
2. Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your spice tolerance; you can omit it for a milder dish.
3. Meal Prep Friendly: This stir-fry is great for meal prep; just keep the chicken and vegetables separate until cooking.
4. Add More Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
5. Cooking in Batches: If your skillet is small, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can cause steaming instead of stir-frying.

Recipe Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different protein option.
• Different Sauces: Try teriyaki sauce or hoisin sauce for a unique twist.
• Vegan Version: Replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
• Add Nuts: Toss in some cashews or peanuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or sriracha for an extra layer of heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a refreshing cucumber salad for a light meal.
• Pair with a hot bowl of miso soup for a complete Asian-inspired dinner.
• Offer spring rolls or dumplings as an appetizer to round out the meal.
• Complement with a glass of chilled green tea for a refreshing beverage option.
• Consider a light fruit salad for dessert to cleanse the palate.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This stir-fry can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
• Reheating: Add a splash of water or chicken stock when reheating to prevent drying out.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
   Yes, but ensure it is fully thawed before slicing and cooking.
2. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! Carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas work well.
3. What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
   You can substitute it with hoisin sauce or a homemade mix of soy sauce and sugar.
4. Is this dish gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free.
5. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
   The chicken should be browned on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance and stir-fry right before serving.
7. What can I serve with this stir-fry?
   It pairs well with rice, noodles, or a side salad.
8. Can I use a different type of cabbage?
   Yes, napa cabbage or red cabbage can also be used.
9. How spicy is this dish?
   It has a mild heat from the jalapeño; you can adjust to your taste.
10. Can I skip the butter?
    Yes, you can use oil or a non-dairy butter substitute.

Conclusion

This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is not only a delightful dish but also a nutritious option for busy weeknights. With its vibrant colors and fantastic flavors, it’s sure to please everyone at your dinner table. Easy to prepare and customize, it’s a recipe that can fit into any meal plan, bringing a taste of Asian cuisine right into your home. Give it a try, and enjoy the burst of flavors and textures in every bite!

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