If you are craving a dish that’s both comforting and packed with vibrant flavors, this Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry with Sesame and Ginger Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender chicken breast pieces with crunchy cabbage and colorful bell peppers, all coated in a luscious, savory sauce that balances the nuttiness of sesame with the zing of fresh ginger. Perfectly quick to prepare, it’s a one-pan wonder that delivers bold taste and satisfying texture in every bite, making it a beloved go-to for busy weeknights or anytime you want something delicious and wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create an impressive medley of flavors. Each element plays a crucial role: the chicken brings protein and juiciness, the cabbage offers crisp texture, while garlic, ginger, and sesame oils layer in that irresistible aromatic boost.
- 3 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces: Choose fresh chicken for the best tenderness and flavor.
- 1 large onion, coarsely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the stir fry.
- 1 large red bell pepper, coarsely chopped: Introduces a pop of color and natural sweetness.
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with savory pungency and warmth.
- 2 pounds green cabbage, coarsely chopped: Gives the dish satisfying crunch and bulk, balanced with gentle earthiness.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle spicy kick.
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil, divided and for frying: A healthy oil that withstands high heat without smoking.
- 2 green onion sprigs, for garnish: Introduce freshness and a slight bite at the end.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish: Toasted for a nutty crunch that elevates each bite.
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and adds savory depth.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides umami richness and saltiness.
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar: Balances the salty and tangy elements with sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seed oil: Imparts that signature, fragrant sesame aroma.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Used to thicken the stir fry sauce to the perfect consistency.
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced (for sauce): Adds extra garlicky flavor to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (or 2 teaspoons dried ginger): Brings a fresh, zesty brightness essential for authentic stir fry flavor.
How to Make Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry with Sesame and Ginger Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce
Start by whisking together chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame seed oil, cornstarch, minced garlic, and ginger in a medium bowl. This sauce is the heart of the dish, melding sweet, salty, and nutty notes that will cling perfectly to the chicken and vegetables later.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken is browned on the edges but still juicy inside. This searing step builds great flavor, so resist moving the chicken too much while cooking to let it caramelize.
Step 3: Set the Chicken Aside
Once the chicken has a nice golden color, transfer it to a plate. This allows you to cook the veggies next without overcrowding the skillet, ensuring everything gets the perfect texture.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the remaining tablespoon of avocado oil back to the hot skillet. Toss in the onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Stir occasionally as they soften and brown gently for about 3 minutes, releasing their fragrance and sweetness to build the flavor base for your stir fry.
Step 5: Cook the Cabbage
Turn the heat down to medium-low, then add the chopped cabbage. Give everything a good stir, cover the skillet, and cook for 7 minutes, stirring halfway through. Adding a splash of water during cooking helps soften the cabbage quickly without steaming it into mush, preserving a nice crunch.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir the prepared sauce once again before pouring it in. Gently mix everything together and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients in a glossy, flavorful glaze.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top. These final touches add fresh color and texture, making your Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry with Sesame and Ginger Recipe look as fantastic as it tastes.
How to Serve Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry with Sesame and Ginger Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds bring brightness and a subtle crunch to every forkful of this stir fry. Try adding a few fresh cilantro leaves or a drizzle of fresh lime juice if you want to add another layer of zing and freshness.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs wonderfully with fluffy jasmine rice or steamed brown rice to soak up all the delightful sauce. For a low-carb twist, serve it alongside cauliflower rice or a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and a pinch of chili flakes.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive weekday meal or light dinner party dish, serve portions in small bowls topped with a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for crunch or a drizzle of chili oil for extra heat. Wrapping the stir fry in crisp lettuce leaves creates an interactive and fun way to enjoy it as well.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover stir fry in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors develop nicely overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated properly.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze the stir fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. When freezing, leave out the garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds, adding them fresh after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore the perfect consistency. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain crisp textures.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and a richer flavor that works perfectly in this stir fry. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, and swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. The sauce and vegetables will still shine wonderfully.
Can I make this stir fry spicy?
Definitely. Add red pepper flakes, a dash of sriracha, or diced fresh chili when sautéing the vegetables to give it a nice kick tailored to your spice tolerance.
What type of soy sauce works best?
Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels without sacrificing umami flavor. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative that also tastes fantastic.
How do I get the cabbage perfectly tender but still crisp?
Cooking the cabbage covered with occasional stirring, and adding a splash of water midway, gently steams and softens it while keeping that essential crisp texture that makes this dish so satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry with Sesame and Ginger Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and straightforward methods can come together to create a meal full of heart and flavor. It’s quick, adaptable, and perfect for sharing with family or friends. Give it a try tonight—you’ll wonder how it ever took so long to become one of your kitchen favorites!
Print
Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry with Sesame and Ginger Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry recipe is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal featuring tender chicken breast sautéed with crunchy cabbage and colorful bell peppers in a savory, slightly sweet soy-ginger sauce. Garnished with toasted sesame seeds and green onions, this dish combines fresh textures with rich Asian-inspired flavors, making it a wholesome and satisfying stir fry perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 3 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, coarsely chopped
- 1 large red bell pepper, coarsely chopped
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced (for vegetables)
- 2 pounds green cabbage, coarsely chopped
- 2 green onion sprigs, for garnish
Seasoning and Sauce
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil, divided and for frying
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seed oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced (for sauce)
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced (or 2 teaspoons dried ginger)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Stir Fry Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, toasted sesame seed oil, cornstarch, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Whisk well until smooth and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Cook Chicken: Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of avocado oil. Add the chicken pieces, sprinkle with salt and black pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Allow brown edges to form for better flavor and texture. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of avocado oil. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the vegetables to soften slightly and develop some browning.
- Cook Cabbage: Reduce heat to medium-low, add the cabbage to the skillet, stir well, then cover and cook for 7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, and add a splash of water about halfway through to help soften the cabbage without burning.
- Combine and Thicken Sauce: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables. Give the prepared sauce a quick stir and pour it over the chicken and vegetables. Stir gently to combine everything evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients beautifully.
- Garnish and Serve: Turn off the heat. Sprinkle the stir fry with sliced green onion sprigs and toasted sesame seeds for a fresh and nutty finish. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier result.
- Adjust the brown sugar amount to make the stir fry more or less sweet according to your preference.
- Add red chili flakes or fresh chili for a spicy twist.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or noodles.
- To keep the cabbage crunchy, do not overcook and add water sparingly.
