Discover the Amazing Chinese Chicken and Cabbage with Savory Soy Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a quick, flavorful, and nutritious stir-fry, look no further than this Chinese Chicken and Cabbage with Savory Soy Sauce Recipe. This easy-to-make dish combines tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and a tantalizing soy-based sauce for a mouthwatering meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Stir-fries are a staple in Chinese cuisine, offering a delicious way to pack in plenty of fresh vegetables and lean protein.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Chinese Chicken and Cabbage with Savory Soy Sauce

To make this tasty stir-fry, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1/2 small head cabbage, shredded or hand-torn
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp black sesame seeds for garnish

For the savory sauce, you’ll need:

• 1/2 cup chicken stock
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp dark soy sauce (optional, for color)
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp white pepper
• 1 tsp cornstarch

How to Make Chinese Chicken and Cabbage with Savory Soy Sauce

Follow these easy steps to create this delicious stir-fry:

1. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken stock, soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), brown sugar, white pepper, and cornstarch. Set the sauce aside.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Pour about 2 tablespoons of the sauce over the sliced chicken and let it marinate for a few minutes while you prep the vegetables.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
4. Cook the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the sesame oil. Toss in the cabbage, onion, and red bell pepper. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
5. Add the Aromatics: Push the vegetables to the side and add the minced garlic and ginger to the center of the pan. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then mix the aromatics with the vegetables.
6. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour the remaining sauce over everything and stir-fry on medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes, tossing frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
7. Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped green onions and sprinkle with the black sesame seeds. Serve the Chinese Chicken and Cabbage with Savory Soy Sauce hot over white rice or noodles for a quick, healthy, and delicious stir-fry meal.

The Art of Stir-Frying

Stir-frying is a cooking technique that originated in China and has become a popular way to prepare quick, flavorful meals. The key to a successful stir-fry is using high heat and cooking the ingredients quickly, which helps to preserve the vegetables’ crunch and the chicken’s tenderness.

When stir-frying, it’s important to use a wok or a large skillet with high sides to allow for the quick movement of the ingredients. Maintain a high heat throughout the cooking process, and be sure to stir or toss the ingredients constantly to prevent burning. The quick cooking time also helps to lock in the flavors and nutrients of the fresh ingredients.

Serving Suggestions for Chinese Chicken and Cabbage with Savory Soy Sauce

This Chinese Chicken and Cabbage with Savory Soy Sauce pairs perfectly with steamed white rice or noodles, allowing the flavorful sauce to be soaked up. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. You can also add a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for extra vegetables.

To present the dish, garnish it with the toasted black sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a visually appealing and authentic Chinese-inspired meal.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of this Chinese Chicken and Cabbage with Savory Soy Sauce recipe is that it’s easy to customize to your taste preferences. Try substituting the chicken with thinly sliced beef or pork for a different protein. You can also swap out the cabbage for other crunchy vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, or bok choy.

For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, increase the amount of brown sugar. And for a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I adjust the seasoning of the sauce for different taste preferences?

Adjusting the seasoning of the sauce is quite easy and can be tailored to individual tastes. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, consider adding more brown sugar or a splash of honey. For a saltier flavor, increase the soy sauce slightly, but be cautious not to overpower the dish. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha. For a more savory depth, consider incorporating additional oyster sauce or a splash of rice vinegar for acidity. Always taste the sauce as you adjust to find the perfect balance for your palate.

Can I prepare Chinese Chicken and Cabbage with Savory Soy Sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare parts of the dish in advance, making it a great option for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator to enhance the flavor. The vegetables can also be prepped ahead of time—wash, chop, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. However, it’s best to cook the dish right before serving to maintain the vegetables’ crunch and the overall freshness. If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume them within 3-4 days.

What are some suitable side dishes to complement this stir-fry?

To create a complete meal alongside Chinese Chicken and Cabbage with Savory Soy Sauce, consider serving it with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a comforting option. Noodles, such as chow mein or rice noodles, also pair well and can absorb the flavors of the dish. For a lighter side, serve with a simple cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar and sesame oil to provide a refreshing contrast. If you want to keep things low-carb, consider serving it over a bed of cauliflower rice.

Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe for a slow cooker or Instant Pot, but the cooking method will change slightly. For a slow cooker, combine all ingredients except the cabbage and cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding the cabbage in the last hour to prevent it from becoming too soft. In an Instant Pot, sauté the chicken and vegetables using the sauté function, then add the sauce ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 5 minutes, followed by a quick release. Keep in mind that the texture may vary from traditional stir-frying, but it can still be delicious and convenient!

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
• Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef with Potatoes
• Honey Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli
• Garlic Soy Napa Cabbage Rolls

Conclusion

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delectable Chinese Chicken and Cabbage with Savory Soy Sauce. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and the flavorful soy-based sauce makes for a quick, healthy, and irresistible stir-fry that’s sure to become a new favorite. With its customizable nature and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meals. Give it a try, and enjoy the tastes of China in your own kitchen!

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