Ground Chicken And Cabbage Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Rapid Recipes
I believe that one of the best quick meals you can whip up is a stir fry, and this Ground Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry is one of my all-time favorites. It combines the savory flavor of ground chicken with the crunch of fresh cabbage, all seasoned beautifully. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, it's perfect for busy weeknights when I want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. I love how you can customize the veggies to make it your own!
When I first made this Ground Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. I seasoned the chicken with ginger and garlic, which gave it a wonderful aroma, and added in a splash of soy sauce for an extra umami kick. Watching the cabbage wilt down while still retaining some crunch was satisfying, and it holds up well even after being cooked.
I found that cooking at high heat allows the vegetables to maintain their vibrant colors and crunch, which adds to the overall texture of the dish. It’s a meal I can make in just 25 minutes, which makes it ideal for those hectic nights!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory ground chicken combined with crisp cabbage
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy nights
- Healthy, packed with nutrients and flavor
Essential Tips for the Perfect Stir Fry
When making this Ground Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry, the heat level is crucial. Start with medium-high heat to ensure the ground chicken browns nicely without steaming. It should take about 5 minutes; you'll know it's ready when there's a lovely golden color and the edges are slightly crispy. Remember to break apart the chicken well, allowing for even cooking and maximum flavor release into the dish.
Each vegetable you choose plays a significant role in balance and texture. Cabbage, for instance, adds a satisfying crunch and absorbs the flavors beautifully. Opt for fresh, tightly packed cabbage for the best results. If you're short on time, using pre-shredded cabbage can be a real lifesaver. Just be sure to rinse it under cold water to refresh its texture before adding it to the stir fry.
Customizing Your Stir Fry
One of the most enjoyable aspects of stir fries is their versatility. While this recipe calls for cabbage, bell peppers, and carrots, feel free to experiment with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms could all be great additions. Aim for around 4 cups total of mixed vegetables for a balanced dish. Just remember that firmer vegetables will need a bit more cooking time, so add them earlier in the process.
If you're looking for a healthier twist, consider using lean ground turkey or tofu as a substitute for the ground chicken. They both work wonderfully with the soy sauce and spices here. For a vegan option, replacing the ground chicken with a firm tofu or tempeh, and adjusting the soy sauce to a low-sodium option, can make this dish just as satisfying while meeting dietary needs.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious Ground Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry:
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Make sure to have everything prepped before starting to stir fry, as this process goes quickly!
Instructions
Follow these steps to cook your Ground Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry:
Cook the Chicken
In a large pan or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5 minutes.
Add the Vegetables
Stir in the minced garlic, ginger, bell pepper, and carrot. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Mix in the Cabbage
Add the shredded cabbage and soy sauce. Stir well to combine and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still has some crunch.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve hot. Enjoy your healthy dinner!
This stir fry is delicious serve over rice or noodles, if you like!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating sesame oil or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also use other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas based on your preference.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This stir fry is ideal for meal prep! After cooking, let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Stored properly in the fridge, it will keep for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional soy sauce to bring back moisture if necessary. This technique keeps the vegetables from becoming limp while ensuring your meal is just as flavorful on Day Three.
If you prefer to make this dish in bulk for freezing, consider undercooking the vegetables slightly so they maintain their texture when reheated. Portion the stir fry into freezer-safe bags or containers, sealing out air as much as possible. Frozen, it can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, fully thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry can be enjoyed on its own, but I love serving it over a bed of fluffy brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients. The grains soak up the sauce beautifully, creating a well-rounded meal. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice to keep things lighter while still being filling.
To elevate the dish further, consider garnishing with toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also brighten up the flavors. Presentation matters, so serve it in colorful bowls to make your meal not only delicious but visually appealing as well.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of ground chicken?
Yes, you can use diced chicken thighs, but the cooking time may vary slightly.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Ground Chicken And Cabbage Stir Fry
I believe that one of the best quick meals you can whip up is a stir fry, and this Ground Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry is one of my all-time favorites. It combines the savory flavor of ground chicken with the crunch of fresh cabbage, all seasoned beautifully. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, it's perfect for busy weeknights when I want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. I love how you can customize the veggies to make it your own!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pan or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic, ginger, bell pepper, and carrot. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add the shredded cabbage and soy sauce. Stir well to combine and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still has some crunch.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve hot. Enjoy your healthy dinner!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating sesame oil or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also use other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas based on your preference.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 28g