Keto Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings

• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the Stir Fry:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced against the grain

• 2 tbsp avocado oil or coconut oil, divided

• 1/2 head green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced (about 6 cups)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

• 4 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)

• Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, for heat

For the Keto Stir Fry Sauce:

• 1/4 cup low-sodium tamari or coconut aminos (for a gluten-free and soy-free option)

• 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (ensure it’s unseasoned to avoid added sugar)

• 1 tsp liquid allulose or monk fruit sweetener (or substitute with 1/2 tsp stevia glycerite, to taste)

• 1/2 tsp xanthan gum (this will thicken the sauce without carbs)

• 1 tsp water

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce and Chicken

1. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the tamari (or coconut aminos), toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, and your chosen sweetener. In a separate tiny bowl, combine the xanthan gum with 1 teaspoon of water to create a slurry. Set both aside.

2. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken slices dry with a paper towel. This helps them sear, not steam. Lightly season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large wok or 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering.

2. Add the chicken in a single layer (you may need to do this in two batches to avoid overcrowding). Let it sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown.

3. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Stir Fry the Aromatics and Cabbage

1. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of avocado oil to the wok.

2. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and the white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Add the sliced cabbage and red pepper flakes (if using). The wok will be very full, but the cabbage will wilt quickly.

4. Stir-fry the cabbage for 3-4 minutes, until it is crisp-tender and has slightly reduced in volume. You want it to still have a bit of a crunch.

Step 4: Combine and Thicken

1. Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the cabbage.

2. Give the sauce a quick stir and pour it over the chicken and cabbage. Toss everything together to coat evenly.

3. Push the mixture to the sides of the wok, creating a well in the center. Pour the xanthan gum slurry into the center and immediately begin stirring vigorously. The sauce will begin to thicken in about 30 seconds. Toss to combine the thickened sauce with the rest of the stir fry.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the wok from the heat.

2. Garnish with the reserved green parts of the onions.

3. Serve immediately on its own or with cauliflower rice for a complete, satisfying keto meal.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Xanthan Gum is Key: This is the secret to a keto stir fry with a glossy, takeout-style sauce. Do not skip it or try to use cornstarch, as it will add too many carbs. Make sure to mix it with water first to create a slurry; otherwise, it can clump in the hot wok.

• Customize Your Veggies: This recipe is very forgiving. You can add other low-carb vegetables like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, broccoli florets, or snow peas. Just add them with the cabbage, adjusting the cook time as needed.

• Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Chicken thighs have a higher fat content and are more forgiving to cook, remaining juicy and tender. Chicken breasts are leaner and work perfectly well if you’re careful not to overcook them.

• Meal Prep: This stir fry stores well. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

Nutrition Information

The following nutrition information is an estimate and provided as a courtesy. It is calculated using Cronometer and based on the ingredients listed, using chicken breast, tamari, and avocado oil. Values may vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients you use.