Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry
A savory, tangy stir-fry with tender chicken strips, sweet napa cabbage, and earthy shiitake mushrooms, all brought together by a glossy black vinegar sauce. The chicken gets a quick 15-minute rest in a simple soy-based marinade—no baking soda or cornstarch needed. Serve over steamed rice for a comforting weeknight meal.

A savory, tangy stir-fry with tender chicken strips, sweet napa cabbage, and earthy shiitake mushrooms, all brought together by a glossy black vinegar sauce. The chicken gets a quick 15-minute rest in a simple soy-based marinade—no baking soda or cornstarch needed. Serve over steamed rice for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
19 ingredients- Fat
- 12g
- Carbs
- 14g
- Protein
- 28g
Whole recipe (4 servings): 1120 kcal
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/3 cup chicken stock or low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp black vinegar (Chinkiang vinegar)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp dark soy sauce (optional, for color)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/4 tsp white pepper
- 2 tbsp neutral oil (such as canola or vegetable), divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 4 oz (115 g) fresh shiitake mushrooms, stems removed, caps thinly sliced
- 1 lb (450 g) napa cabbage, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 6 cups)
- 2 green onions, sliced on the bias, for garnish
- Steamed rice, for serving (optional)
Method
6 steps- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken strips with 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine, 1 tsp sesame oil, and 1 tsp honey. Toss to coat, then let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
- While the chicken rests, whisk together the cornstarch and chicken stock in a small bowl until completely smooth. Set aside. In another small bowl, stir together the black vinegar, 1 tbsp soy sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), 1 tsp honey, and white pepper. Set the sauce mixture near the stove.
- Heat 1 tbsp neutral oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry for 15 seconds until fragrant. Add the shiitake mushrooms and cook for 2 minutes, until they begin to soften and brown. Add the napa cabbage and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, until the cabbage is wilted but still has some crunch. Transfer the vegetables to a plate.
- Add the remaining 1 tbsp oil to the wok. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook without moving for 1 minute, then stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, until the chicken is nearly cooked through and no longer pink on the outside. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Return the vegetables to the wok. Pour in the black vinegar sauce mixture and toss to coat. Stir the cornstarch-stock mixture again (it settles), then pour it into the wok. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1–2 minutes, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon and turns glossy. If it thickens too much, add a splash of stock or water; if too thin, simmer a few seconds more.
- Remove from heat. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately over steamed rice, if desired.
Recipe notes
Helpful tips
- For extra vegetables, add thinly sliced bell peppers or snow peas with the cabbage.
- If you don't have black vinegar, balsamic vinegar mixed with a splash of rice vinegar can substitute, though the flavor will differ.
- Slice chicken while partially frozen for easier, thinner strips.
Equipment
- Wok or large skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or fork
- Instant-read thermometer
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until steaming hot.
Additional tips
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving. Use a clean plate for the cooked chicken if you need to hold it. The wok will be very hot; keep a lid nearby to smother any oil flare-ups.
Recipe inspiration
Inspired by Cook! Stacey Cook
Estimated nutrition
Per serving: 280 calories
Fat: 12 g · Carbs: 14 g · Protein: 28 g
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