If you’re searching for a quick and delicious dinner option that’s bursting with flavor, my Easy Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry with BBQ Sauce is just the ticket! Savory chicken, crisp veggies, and a delightful tangy sauce come together in a dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: Perfect for those busy weeknights, this recipe is ready in just 25 minutes.
- Packed with Flavor: The tangy and savory BBQ sauce transforms this dish into a flavor explosion with each bite.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with lean protein and fresh vegetables, it’s a wholesome meal everyone will enjoy.
- Easily Customizable: Adapt it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs with different veggies or a dash of extra spice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels both special and effortless. Each component plays a crucial role in adding layers of taste and texture.
- 450g (1 pound) chicken breast meat: This lean protein is tender and soaks up the flavors beautifully.
- 2 tsp cornstarch: Helps create a silky sauce that clings to the chicken.
- 4 tbsp Char Siu sauce: Adds a sweet and smoky element that is irresistible.
- 1/2 medium-sized carrot: Provides a pop of color and a subtle sweetness.
- 450g (1 pound) cabbage: Crunchy and full of nutrients, this is the star veggie.
Variations
Want to put your personal stamp on this Easy Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry with BBQ Sauce? It’s a breeze to tweak, making it perfect for any palate or dietary preference.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha to bring heat to the dish.
- Vegan Twist: Swap chicken for firm tofu and enjoy a plant-based delight without compromising on flavor.
How to Make Easy Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry with BBQ Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces and marinate them in BBQ sauce with a pinch of salt and cornstarch. Let them soak up these delicious flavors for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Heat up some oil in a skillet, then add your onion, garlic, and carrot strips. Stir-fry them until they’re fragrant and slightly softened, then throw in your cabbage.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
Once your cabbage is crisp-tender, return the chicken to the pan, toss everything together with a splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of ground white pepper. Finish with some sliced scallions for a hit of freshness.
Pro Tips for Making Easy Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry with BBQ Sauce
- Marination Magic: Letting the chicken marinate longer intensifies the flavors, resulting in a more delicious bite.
- Stir-Fry Secrets: Keep the heat medium-high when cooking vegetables to retain their crunch and vibrant colors.
- Oil of Choice: Use sesame oil for an added depth and nutty aroma that enhances the overall taste.
- Balancing Act: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving, ensuring a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
How to Serve Easy Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry with BBQ Sauce
Garnishes
Top your dish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or fresh chopped herbs like cilantro for an extra flair of flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
Serve this stir-fry with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce, or even alongside a simple green salad for a lighter option.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your stir-fry in lettuce cups for a fresh, modern twist, or in a large, rustic bowl passed around a communal dining table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep well for up to three days.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your stir-fry gently on the stovetop or in the microwave—just make sure not to overcook the chicken, as it will become tough.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of protein?
Absolutely! This dish works well with tofu, shrimp, or even beef for varied flavor profiles and cooking experiences.
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How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Ensure that your BBQ sauce and soy sauce are gluten-free alternatives. Most brands offer these options now.
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What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for additional veggies and color variations.
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Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It’s perfect for making ahead and keeping in the fridge, ready to reheat and enjoy during the week.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry with BBQ Sauce is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavors that’ll have you coming back for seconds. Give it a try and bring a bit of joy and deliciousness to your next meal!
Print
BBQ Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Stir-Fry
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese-inspired
Description
This Easy Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry with BBQ Sauce is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish that combines tender chicken, crisp-tender cabbage, and a savory BBQ-infused sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, it brings together vibrant vegetables and succulent chicken with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Ingredients
Protein and Marinade
- 450g (1 pound) chicken breast meat
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 4 tbsp Char Siu sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground white pepper
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
Vegetables
- 1/2 medium-sized carrot
- 2 stalks scallions
- 450g (1 pound) cabbage (weight after cut)
- 1 medium-sized onion
- 3 cloves of garlic
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and marinate with Char Siu sauce, salt, and cornstarch for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Prepare Vegetables: Remove the core of the cabbage and cut into roughly two-inch pieces. Slice the carrots into thin 2-inch strips. Chop the scallions into 0.5-inch sections. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Cook Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until golden brown on both sides, then remove from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Carrots: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if necessary. Sauté the onion until translucent, then add chopped garlic and carrot, cooking on low heat until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Cook Cabbage: Add drained cabbage to the pan, stir-fry over medium-high heat until crisp-tender, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt, light soy sauce, and ground white pepper.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss everything together until evenly coated and hot. Add scallions at the end for freshness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately with steamed white rice.
Notes
- Ensure cabbage is thoroughly drained after washing to prevent excess water during stir-frying.
- Use a wok or large skillet to facilitate even cooking and stir-frying.
- Feel free to add a pinch of sesame oil at the end for additional aroma.
- This dish can be customized with other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas.
- The marinade helps tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor, so do not skip this step.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/3 of dish
- Calories: 358
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 1111mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 53g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
