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Crispy Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry

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Crispy Chicken and Cabbage Stir‑Fry is a quick, savory one‑pan meal featuring golden, crispy chicken pieces and caramelized cabbage tossed in a tangy, umami sauce. Perfect for weeknights, it’s full of texture, flavor, and ease.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium head green cabbage, shredded or chopped
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or neutral oil) for frying
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes or chili paste (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Season chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to form a crust, then flip and cook through until golden. Remove chicken to a plate.
  3. Add the remaining 1 tbsp oil to the pan (if needed), then add cabbage. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until it softens and edges begin to caramelize.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook another ~30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour the sauce (soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil) over everything.
  6. Toss and stir to combine, cooking for another 1–2 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce coats everything.
  7. Garnish with green onions and red pepper flakes or chili paste if using. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use thighs for more richness and better moisture; breasts make it leaner.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if necessary to maintain crispiness.
  • For a lower-sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce or reduce the amount.
  • Swap cabbage for bok choy, napa cabbage, or shredded Brussels sprouts for variation.
  • If adding vegetables like bell pepper or carrot, toss them in along with cabbage.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/crispy-chicken-and-cabbage-stir-fry/