Ground Chicken And Cabbage Stir Fry

Name: Ground Chicken And Cabbage Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 4 cups shredded cabbage; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Weeknight Quick Meals Inspiration

I love whipping up quick meals, and Ground Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry has become one of my go-to recipes. The combination of juicy ground chicken with crunchy cabbage is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. I often throw in whatever veggies I have on hand to make it even more colorful and nutritious. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights because it comes together in just a few minutes, allowing me to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-27T11:29:35.918Z

When I first tried making a stir fry with ground chicken, I was amazed at how quickly it cooked and how flavorful it turned out. I used a mix of soy sauce and ginger for seasoning, which not only enhanced the chicken but also complemented the cabbage beautifully.

One tip I discovered is to add the cabbage towards the end of the cooking process so it retains its crunch. It adds a delightful texture that pairs wonderfully with the tender meat and creates a dynamic bite in each forkful.

What You'll Love About This Recipe
Quick preparation for a healthy weeknight meal
Flavorful combination of ground chicken and fresh cabbage
Versatile dish that can accommodate various vegetables

Mastering the Stir Fry Technique

To achieve the best texture in your Ground Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry, it's essential to maintain high heat throughout the cooking process. Using a large skillet or a wok allows for ample space to properly sauté and sear the chicken and vegetables. Make sure your skillet is sufficiently hot before adding the sesame oil, as this will help the ingredients to cook quickly and evenly, ensuring they develop a pleasant char without becoming mushy.

Another key aspect of stir frying is the order in which you add the ingredients. Since the chicken takes the longest to cook, it should be added to the hot skillet first. By breaking the chicken apart and cooking it until browned, you develop deeper flavors. Once the chicken is cooked through, the aromatics like garlic and ginger can be added to infuse the oil with their scents before throwing in the cabbage, which cooks swiftly but should retain some crunch for a delightful contrast in textures.

Ingredient Role and Substitutions

Ground chicken is not only a lean protein source but also absorbs flavors exceptionally well, making it a standout star in this recipe. However, if ground chicken isn't available, turkey or even textured vegetable protein can be excellent alternatives. Both options will blend seamlessly with the other ingredients while offering different flavor profiles, allowing for easy customization according to your preferences or dietary restrictions.

Cabbage serves as the perfect base for this stir fry due to its crunchy texture and ability to stay crisp when cooked briefly. If you're looking for a variation, consider using Napa cabbage or bok choy, which will provide a slightly sweeter flavor. If you're short on cabbage, other leafy greens like kale or spinach can also be used, just remember to reduce cooking time, as they wilt faster than cabbage.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious stir fry:

Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken
4 cups shredded cabbage
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Ensure everything is prepped and ready to go before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your stir fry:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Then, add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through.

Add Garlic and Ginger

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Incorporate Cabbage

Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and pour in the soy sauce. Stir well to combine, and let it cook for about 5 minutes until the cabbage wilts but still retains some crunch.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.

Your delicious Ground Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try experimenting with different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. You can also serve this stir fry over rice or noodles for a heartier meal.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to meal prep, Ground Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture, adding a splash of soy sauce or a bit of broth to reintroduce moisture and prevent drying out. This dish also freezes well; simply portion it into air-tight containers, and use within three months for optimal flavor.

Make sure to cool the stir fry fully before placing it in the freezer. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop for an easy and satisfying meal. Having this dish ready to go means lesser time cooking during your busy week while still enjoying a healthy, homemade meal.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, you could serve this stir fry over steamed rice or quinoa, which will absorb the savory flavors while providing extra sustenance. Alternatively, for a low-carb option, serve it in lettuce wraps or over spiralized vegetables like zucchini or carrots for a vibrant presentation and added nutrition.

Garnishing with sliced green onions adds a burst of freshness, but consider sprinkling some sesame seeds or toasted nuts like cashews on top for added crunch and flavor. A drizzle of chili oil can also elevate this dish for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This stir fry pairs well with steamed rice or noodles. You could also serve it with a side of spring rolls.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.