If you’re looking for a wholesome, colorful dish that brings together the fresh crunch of vegetables and tender chicken in a delightful harmony, this Cabbage Sautéed with Chicken Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s quick to make, bursting with vibrant flavors, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual meal with friends. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish transforms everyday produce into something extraordinary that feels both comforting and exciting on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this recipe are straightforward and easy to find, yet each plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color that makes the dish so satisfying.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into thin strips: Lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious seasonings.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps to beautifully sauté the ingredients without sticking.
- 1 onion, thinly sliced: Offers a natural sweetness that mellows as it cooks, creating depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides an aromatic punch that brightens every bite.
- 1 small head of green cabbage, thinly sliced: The star of the dish, adding satisfying crunch and a mild, slightly peppery flavor.
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Brings vibrant color and a touch of sweetness.
- 1 carrot, julienned: Adds a lovely crisp texture and a hint of natural sweetness to balance the savory notes.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Infuses savory umami flavor while enhancing the dish’s rich color.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Offers a gentle acidity that brightens and lifts the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds warmth and a slight zing that complements the chicken and veggies beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring the whole dish together.
- 2 green onions, chopped: For a fresh, mild onion kick as garnish.
- Sesame seeds for garnish: Adds a subtle nutty crunch and a lovely finishing touch.
How to Make Cabbage Sautéed with Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add your thin chicken strips to the hot pan and let them cook until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust and are cooked through, usually about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set it aside. This step locks in moisture and flavor that will shine through when combined with the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the thinly sliced onions and cook them gently for about 3 minutes until they start softening to bring out their natural sweetness. Then add the minced garlic and stir for another 1 to 2 minutes until you can smell that irresistible fragrant aroma. Now it’s time to add the thinly sliced cabbage, red bell pepper, and julienned carrot. Stir frequently as the vegetables sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until they’re tender but still have a satisfying crunch—this texture contrast is crucial for the dish’s appeal.
Step 3: Combine and Season
Return your cooked chicken strips to the skillet with the vibrant veggies. Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, then sprinkle 1 teaspoon of ground ginger along with salt and pepper to taste. Gently stir everything together, letting all the elements mingle and heat through for another 2 to 3 minutes. This quick toss ensures every bite has that perfect blend of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy notes.
How to Serve Cabbage Sautéed with Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To finish your dish beautifully, sprinkle chopped green onions and a generous pinch of sesame seeds atop the sauté. These garnishes add fresh bursts of onion flavor and a subtle nutty crunch that elevate the whole experience, making the presentation as enticing as the flavors.
Side Dishes
This Cabbage Sautéed with Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa, both of which soak up the delicious sauce perfectly. For those who love a heartier meal, a side of garlic noodles or roasted sweet potatoes would also complement the dish’s texture and flavor elegantly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to jazz things up, serve this sauté in crisp lettuce cups or wrap it in warm tortillas for a fun fusion twist. You can also pile it onto toasted baguette slices for a quick open-faced sandwich or use it as a filling for savory crepes. These creative presentations make the dish feel special and allow you to enjoy it in different ways.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This dish stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect choice for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.
Freezing
While the texture of sautéed vegetables can change after freezing, you can freeze this dish if needed. Use a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. It keeps well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For the best texture and flavor, gently reheat your leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. Microwave reheating works too, but be mindful not to overcook the cabbage to preserve its slight crunch and vibrant color.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cabbage in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute green cabbage with Napa or Savoy cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor. Each type offers its own twist while still working beautifully with the chicken and seasonings.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken for firm tofu, tempeh, or even chickpeas. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the alternative protein is cooked through and flavorful.
What can I do to make the dish spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes, a drizzle of sriracha, or some finely chopped fresh chili peppers during the seasoning step. These additions pack a punch without overwhelming the other flavors.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the vegetables and chicken ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply combine and sauté everything as directed for a speedy meal.
What other seasonings go well with this dish?
Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add brightness, while a splash of toasted sesame oil at the end gives a lovely nutty aroma. Feel free to experiment with a pinch of five-spice powder or a squeeze of fresh lime to personalize your Cabbage Sautéed with Chicken Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Sautéed with Chicken Recipe is a fantastic way to bring something fast, flavorful, and nutritious to your table with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself to a satisfying solo dinner, it’s sure to become one of your go-to meals. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll love the freshness and comforting warmth that every bite delivers.
Print
Cabbage Sautéed with Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and healthy dish featuring tender chicken breast sautéed with vibrant cabbage and colorful vegetables, flavored with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Vegetables
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 green onions, chopped
Seasonings & Garnish
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced chicken breast strips and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onion and cook for approximately 3 minutes until it begins to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Then add the sliced cabbage, red bell pepper, and julienned carrot. Stir frequently and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still retain some crispness.
- Combine and Season: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes while stirring to evenly combine everything and heat through.
- Serve: Transfer the sautéed cabbage and chicken mixture to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil when cooking the vegetables.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.
- Julienne the carrot finely to ensure it cooks evenly with the other vegetables.
- This recipe works well with other protein options such as tofu, shrimp, or beef strips.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
