ground chicken and cabbage recipe

The Best ground chicken and cabbage recipe

This recipe for ground chicken and cabbage is one of my go-to meals because it’s simple, filling, and always gets a big thumbs-up from my family. I love how it uses affordable ingredients that are easy to find at the grocery store, and it doesn’t take a lot of time to prepare—just enough to keep things moving without feeling like a chore.

My kids, especially my son who’s always picky, will eat it straight from the pan because it’s packed with flavor and doesn’t taste like anything they’d normally expect from chicken and cabbage. It’s that kind of dish that feels comforting yet light, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or even a casual family gathering.

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What I really appreciate about this recipe is how it’s packed with nutrients. Chicken is a lean protein source, and cabbage is loaded with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s not heavy or greasy, so it’s great for anyone watching their portions or trying to eat healthier without feeling deprived.

My family loves it because it’s versatile—you can serve it with rice, quinoa, or even just mashed potatoes, and it pairs well with simple sides like roasted potatoes or a fresh salad. Plus, it’s one of those meals that feels special, even if it’s just for everyday eating. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re making an effort, but it’s still easy to make when life gets busy.

Cabbage and Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Garlic Sauce

4.6 from 1576 votes

A flavorful and healthy dish combining tender ground chicken with crisp cabbage in a savory garlic sauce. Light on calories but packed with protein and vitamins.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time25 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time45 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Proteins

• 1.5 lbs ground chicken
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Vegetables

• 1 large head green cabbage
• 1 small onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp fresh ginger

Sauce

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Extras

• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it heat. Season ground chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until fully browned and no longer pink (about 6-7 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. 2 In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté onion until translucent (~3 minutes). Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. 3 Cut the cabbage into thin wedges and add to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5 minutes until slightly softened. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well.
4. 4 In a small bowl, mix chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the chicken and cabbage. Stir well and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. 5 Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with steamed rice or your choice of sides.

🔧Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14💛Saturated Fat: 2.5❤️Cholesterol: 110🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 20🥦Dietary Fiber: 4🍬Sugars: 6🥩Protein: 35

📝Notes

Tip: For extra flavor, add a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top before serving.,Tip: Substitute chicken broth with water if preferred.,Tip: Use a mandoline slicer for even cabbage wedges if available.

This ground chicken and cabbage recipe is always a solid choice for any family gathering because it’s simple yet hearty, making it easy to prepare ahead of time while keeping everyone satisfied. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers because the flavors meld together nicely without needing fancy techniques, and the cabbage adds a satisfying crunch and freshness that balances out the meal. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and works well for both small and larger groups, so it never disappoints when you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cabbage and Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Garlic Sauce

1. What ingredients are typically needed for a simple ground chicken and cabbage recipe? A classic ground chicken and cabbage dish usually requires ground chicken (or turkey), diced cabbage (like green or purple), onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes (optional), broth or water, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar or honey. Some recipes also include spices like black pepper, salt, or a pinch of ginger for extra flavor.

2. How long does it take to prepare and cook this recipe? Prep time for this dish is about 15–20 minutes (chopping veggies, mixing seasonings), while cooking usually takes 30–40 minutes, depending on the cut of chicken and whether you’re using frozen or fresh ingredients. Stir-frying or sautéing can shorten the cooking time slightly.

3. Can I substitute ground turkey for ground chicken in this recipe? Yes, ground turkey works well in this dish—it’s leaner but still holds up to the flavors. Just reduce the oil slightly since turkey has less fat. If you prefer, you can also use ground beef (though it may require a little more browning).

4. What’s the best way to ensure the cabbage stays tender while cooking? To keep cabbage tender, chop it into small, even pieces (about 1-inch cubes) and cook it in stages. Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add the cabbage in batches if needed, stirring frequently. Avoid overcrowding the pan, and if using frozen cabbage, thaw it first and drain excess liquid.

5. How can I make this recipe healthier or lower in calories? To reduce calories, use lean ground chicken (93% lean or higher), trim excess fat from the meat, and opt for low-sodium broth. Boost flavor with herbs like cilantro, cumin, or a splash of lime juice instead of extra salt. Adding more veggies (like bell peppers or zucchini) can also increase volume without much extra calories.