Craving a quick, delicious Asian-inspired meal that will make your taste buds dance? Look no further! This Sesame Chicken and Cabbage recipe is about to become your new weeknight superhero. In just 25 minutes, you'll transform simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish that rivals your favorite takeout – but with the added bonus of being homemade and healthier. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this incredibly easy yet restaurant-worthy recipe that brings the perfect balance of crispy chicken, tender cabbage, and nutty sesame flavors!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by slicing chicken breasts into thin, even strips and ensuring cabbage is finely shredded. Mince the garlic clove and measure out all sauce ingredients.
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to become hot but not smoking, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add sliced chicken to the skillet, spreading pieces in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken turns golden and is nearly cooked through.
- Add shredded cabbage to the skillet and stir-fry with chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes. The cabbage should remain slightly crisp and not become completely wilted.
- Pour soy sauce over the chicken and cabbage, tossing to ensure even coating. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld and chicken to finish cooking.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle sesame seeds over the dish. Toss gently to distribute seeds evenly.
- Transfer to serving plates immediately. Garnish with additional sesame seeds if desired and serve hot.
Tips
- Slice Chicken Evenly: Uniform chicken strips ensure even cooking and a professional look. Use a sharp knife and cut against the grain for the most tender results.
- Oil Temperature is Key: Make sure your sesame oil is hot but not smoking. This helps achieve that perfect golden-brown sear on the chicken without burning.
- Don't Overcook the Cabbage: Keep the cabbage slightly crisp for the best texture. Overcooking will make it soggy and lose its fresh crunch.
- Sesame Seed Pro Tip: Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes before adding to intensify their nutty flavor.
- Quick Marinade Option: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and garlic for 15-30 minutes before cooking if you have extra time.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal. A sprinkle of green onions can add a fresh finishing touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 85mg
