Easy BBQ Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

If you’re craving a quick, delightful meal that packs a punch in both flavor and nutrition, look no further than this Easy Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry with BBQ Sauce. It’s a no-fuss recipe that brings together succulent chicken, crunchy cabbage, and the irresistible kick of BBQ sauce for a dinner that’s on the table in 25 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just 25 minutes!
  • Flavor Explosion: Thanks to the BBQ sauce, every bite has that perfect tangy, sweet, and savory kick.
  • Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein from the chicken and vitamins from fresh veggies.
  • Customizable: Adapt it to suit your taste by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of accessible ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s both satisfying and colorful. Each component is chosen to elevate the dish—ensuring crunchiness, tenderness, and of course, great taste!

  • 450g (1 pound) chicken breast meat: Opt for free-range chicken for the best flavor and texture.
  • 2 tsp cornstarch: This helps in creating a lovely sear on the chicken, locking in all the flavors.
  • 4 tbsp Char Siu sauce: This is where the magic happens—the perfect sweet and smoky flavors!
  • 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp ground white pepper: These simple seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the dish.
  • 1 tbsp light soy sauce: Adds umami depth and balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
  • 1/2 medium-sized carrot: Thinly sliced for a pop of color and crunch.
  • 2 stalks scallions: A gentle oniony note with a hint of color.
  • 450g (1 pound) cabbage: Light and crunchy, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
  • 3 cloves of garlic: Essential for that aromatic base flavor.
  • 1 medium-sized onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the stir-fry.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

This Easy Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry with BBQ Sauce is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand or tweak it to suit any dietary requirements for a personalized touch.

  • Spice It Up: Add sliced chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce for those who love extra heat.
  • Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken with tofu or tempeh for a delightful vegetarian version.
  • Asian Twist: Include a dash of sesame oil and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for added aroma.

How to Make Easy Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry with BBQ Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Marinate them with the BBQ sauce, salt, and cornstarch for at least 30 minutes. This marination process ensures the chicken absorbs maximum flavor and remains tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken marinates, get your veggies ready. Shred the cabbage into two-inch pieces, slice the carrots finely, and cut the scallions and onions. The key is to keep everything uniform so they cook evenly.

Step 3: Stir-Fry Time

Heat a generous amount of oil in your wok. Stir-fry the chicken until golden brown, then remove. Sauté the onions, garlic, and carrots until fragrant, followed by the cabbage. Return chicken to the pan, toss everything with soy sauce, and finish with scallions.

Pro Tips for Making Easy Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry with BBQ Sauce

  • Marination Magic: Let the chicken marinate longer for the flavors to penetrate deeper.
  • Veggie Timing: Stir-fry veggies just until they’re crisp-tender for maximum crunch.
  • Oil Balance: Ensure your pan is hot before adding ingredients for the best sear without excess oil.
  • Flavor Testing: Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving.

How to Serve Easy Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry with BBQ Sauce

Easy BBQ Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Consider sprinkling sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top to add texture. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can brighten the dish with a refreshing green note.

Side Dishes

This stir-fry pairs seamlessly with a bowl of steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa. For a heartier meal, you can serve it with egg fried rice or even some noodles tossed in garlic and soy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the stir-fry in individual bowls garnished with sliced chili for color. Arrange it on a long platter if you’re aiming for family-style dining, or roll it into lettuce wraps for a delightful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools down before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

If you wish to freeze this dish, transfer it to a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best results.

Reheating

For reheating, use the stovetop for even heating. A gentle warm-up on medium-low ensures the veggies stay crisp. You can also use the microwave; just cover the bowl to retain moisture.

FAQs

  1. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

    Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, so swap chicken with beef, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein like tofu to suit your preference.

  2. What can I substitute for Char Siu sauce if I don’t have it?

    If you’re out of Char Siu sauce, a blend of hoisin sauce and a touch of honey makes a delicious alternative. Adjust sweetness to your liking.

  3. How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

    Marinating the chicken with cornstarch helps lock in moisture, and ensuring it’s cooked over medium heat prevents it from becoming too dry.

  4. Is there a low-sodium option for this recipe?

    Yes, use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the salt. Additionally, ensure your BBQ sauce is low in sodium to maintain balanced flavors.

Final Thoughts

With its harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, this Easy Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry with BBQ Sauce is bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this dish as much as I do. Happy cooking!

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Easy BBQ Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

Easy BBQ Chicken & Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 146 reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings
  • Category: Stir-Fry
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Description

This easy chicken and cabbage stir-fry with BBQ sauce is a quick, savory meal that combines tender marinated chicken with crunchy vegetables, all tossed in flavorful barbecue sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, it’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and served best over fluffy white rice.


Ingredients

Marinade & Chicken

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 – 3 cloves garlic – 1 medium-sized onion

Additional

– Vegetable oil for stir-frying

Instructions

  1. Marinate Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and marinate in barbecue sauce, salt, and cornstarch for at least 30 minutes to an hour to ensure flavor and tenderness.
  2. Prepare Vegetables: Remove the core from the cabbage and chop the leaves into two-inch pieces. Slice the carrots into thin two-inch strips. Cut scallions into half-inch sections, mince the garlic, and chop the onion into small chunks.
  3. Cook Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of 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 and set aside.
  4. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Add a little more oil if needed, and sauté the onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and sliced carrots and cook over low heat until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Stir-Fry Cabbage: Add the drained cabbage into the pan and stir-fry over medium-high heat until crisp-tender, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, light soy sauce, and white pepper.
  6. Combine & Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss everything together. Add chopped scallions at the end of cooking. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve immediately over steamed white rice.

Notes

  • Ensure the cabbage is thoroughly drained to prevent excess water during stir-frying.
  • You can substitute the Char Siu sauce with other barbecue sauces for different flavor profiles.
  • For extra crunch, add a handful of chopped nuts or toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/3 of recipe
  • Calories: 358 kcal
  • Sugar: 9 g
  • Sodium: 1111 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 21 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 53 g
  • Cholesterol: 135 mg

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