Savory Chicken and Chinese Cabbage Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce Glaze – Quick, Healthy & Packed with Flavor!
Looking for a delicious and healthy dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes? This savory chicken stir-fry with Chinese cabbage and a rich soy sauce glaze is your perfect go-to! It’s a high-protein, veggie-loaded dish with irresistible Asian flavors—light, satisfying, and packed with textures you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
For the stir-fry:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 medium Chinese cabbage (bok choy), shredded
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (such as sunflower or peanut oil)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger (about 2.5 cm), finely chopped
For the soy glaze:
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional but recommended)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons cold water
Optional toppings:
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Thinly sliced green onions
- Steamed rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Make the soy glaze
In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, vinegar, and the cornstarch-water mixture. Whisk well until smooth and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Add the sliced chicken and stir-fry for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-fry the vegetables
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan.
- Toss in the garlic and ginger; stir quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the red bell pepper and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until it softens slightly.
- Add the shredded Chinese cabbage and stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes. Don’t overcook—it should stay slightly crisp!
Step 4: Combine and glaze
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
- Pour the soy glaze over everything.
- Toss everything together and stir-fry for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is nicely coated.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stir-fry hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra flavor boost and visual appeal.
Tips for Best Results:
- Use a wok for authentic texture and quick cooking.
- Cut the chicken thinly for fast, even cooking.
- Want it spicy? Add chili flakes or sliced fresh red chilies with the garlic and ginger.
- For a low-carb version, serve over cauliflower rice or eat as-is!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Ready in under 30 minutes
Loaded with lean protein and veggies
Bold Asian-inspired flavor
Perfect for busy weeknights
Kid-friendly and customizable
Variations to Try:
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Add mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots for more veggie variety.
- Double the sauce if serving with noodles!