Cabbage Chicken (Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe)

Cabbage Chicken (Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe) is a delightful dish that combines tender ground chicken with crisp cabbage and flavorful peanut sauce. This easy recipe takes just 20 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick meal prep. The mix of fresh vegetables and protein creates a nutritious option that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a tasty dish to impress guests, this stir fry is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
• Flavor-Packed: The creamy peanut sauce adds a unique twist, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with veggies like cabbage and carrots, this stir fry is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile Meal: You can easily customize it with other vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Cabbage Chicken, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon
• Grater
• Chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents food from sticking, making it easier to cook without burning.
• Whisk: Essential for thoroughly mixing your peanut sauce ingredients for a smooth consistency.
• Slotted spoon: Helps transfer cooked chicken without excess juices, keeping your stir fry from becoming soggy.

Ingredients

Easy 20-minute chicken and cabbage skillet with ground chicken, coleslaw mix, carrots, and the most delicious peanut sauce.

For the Stir Fry

• 3 Tbsp. neutral oil, such as avocado oil, divided
• 1 lb. ground chicken
• 16 oz. coleslaw cabbage mix
• 2 medium carrots, grated
• 2-3 green onions, sliced
• ½ cup chopped cilantro, plus more for serving
• Kosher salt and fresh black pepper
• Hot chili sauce, for serving

For the Peanut Sauce

• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
• ¼ cup soy sauce (use tamari for gluten free)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 Tbsp. honey
• 1 Tbsp. freshly grated ginger
• 1 Tbsp. rice vinegar
• 1 tsp. sesame oil

How to Make Cabbage Chicken (Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe)

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Sauce

• Whisk together the following ingredients in a small bowl until well combined:
• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
• ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari)
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Step 2: Cook the Ground Chicken

• In a large non-stick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
• Once hot, add the ground chicken:
• Cook until no longer pink, breaking up the meat with a spoon.
• Transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl using a slotted spoon.
• Drain excess juices from the pan and wipe it clean.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

• Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to the skillet:
• When hot, add:
• 16 oz. coleslaw mix
• Grated carrots
• Cook until tender-crisp, stirring constantly (about 3-4 minutes).
• If veggies begin to burn, reduce heat slightly.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

• Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with prepared peanut sauce:
• Season with kosher salt and fresh black pepper to taste.
• Cook for a few minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 5: Final Touches

• Stir in sliced green onions and chopped cilantro:
• Serve topped with additional cilantro and hot chili sauce.
• A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds an extra burst of flavor!

How to Serve Cabbage Chicken (Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe)

Serving Cabbage Chicken is as fun as it is delicious. This dish can be enjoyed in a variety of ways that enhance its flavors and textures. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Crisp lettuce leaves make an excellent base for this stir fry. Simply spoon the cabbage chicken mixture into the leaves, add some hot chili sauce, and enjoy!

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the stir fry over fluffy white rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. The grains soak up the flavorful peanut sauce beautifully.

With Noodles

• Pairing this dish with rice noodles or soba noodles adds a delightful texture. Toss everything together for a complete noodle bowl experience.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your Cabbage Chicken with extra cilantro and sliced green onions to enhance freshness and color.

With Lime Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving brightens the flavors and adds a zesty kick.

As Meal Prep

• Portion out leftovers into individual containers for quick grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. It reheats well in the microwave!

How to Perfect Cabbage Chicken (Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe)

To master the art of making this Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a significant difference in flavor, so choose vibrant produce for the best results.

• Don’t Overcook: Aim for tender-crisp vegetables. Cooking them too long can lead to mushiness, diminishing their crunch.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, add extra hot chili sauce or red pepper flakes to your peanut sauce for an extra kick.

• Experiment with Proteins: While ground chicken is fantastic, you can substitute ground turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option that still delivers on taste.

Best Side Dishes for Cabbage Chicken (Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe)

Pairing side dishes with your Cabbage Chicken can turn a simple meal into something special. Here are some tasty options that complement this stir fry perfectly.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while keeping the meal healthy.

2. Garlic Fried Rice: A simple garlic fried rice brings an aromatic touch to your dinner plate.

3. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing complements the stir fry’s flavors.

4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing adds a nice contrast in texture.

5. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies make a delightful appetizer alongside your main dish.

6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup enhances the meal’s Asian flair and provides comforting warmth.

7. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame makes for a nutritious snack or side that’s easy to prepare.

8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness balances the savory notes of the stir fry while adding extra fiber and vitamins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, but avoiding a few common mistakes will help you create the perfect Cabbage Chicken (Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe).

• Ignoring the heat: Cooking on too high of a heat can burn your veggies. Keep the heat at medium-high to achieve tender-crisp cabbage without burning.
• Overcooking the chicken: Ground chicken cooks quickly, so avoid leaving it on the heat for too long. Cook until no longer pink, then remove it to prevent dryness.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season with salt and pepper can lead to bland results. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
• Skipping the sauce prep: Preparing the sauce ingredients in advance ensures they blend well. Whisk them together before starting to cook for better flavor integration.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Low-quality peanut butter or soy sauce can affect the dish’s overall flavor. Use good-quality ingredients for a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Cabbage Chicken (Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe)

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as it may expand when frozen.

Reheating Cabbage Chicken (Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this delicious Cabbage Chicken (Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe), you’re not alone!

Can I use regular cabbage instead of coleslaw mix?

Yes! Shredded regular cabbage works perfectly if you don’t have coleslaw mix on hand.

What can I substitute for ground chicken?

You can use ground turkey or lean beef as alternatives for ground chicken in this recipe.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra nutrients and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Cabbage Chicken (Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe) is not only quick but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or sauces, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Give it a try; you’ll love how easy and satisfying it is!