Low Carb Chicken and Red Cabbage Stir Fry

Man, do I have a weeknight lifesaver for you! This Chicken and Red Cabbage Stir Fry is my go-to when I want something crazy flavorful but don’t wanna spend all night in the kitchen. Picture this: tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a peanut sauce so good you’ll wanna drink it with a straw (no judgment). Best part? It’s ready in 35 minutes flat, meal-prep friendly, and won’t wreck your diet. Let’s turn your ordinary weeknight into a takeout fake-out that’s actually good for you!

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken & Red Cabbage Stir Fry

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious fast.

✔ Meal Prep Hero – Stays fresh in the fridge for days, making lunches or dinners a no-brainer.

✔ Low-Carb & Healthy – Packed with protein and veggies, so it’s satisfying without the guilt.

✔ Bursting with Flavor – Sweet, savory, nutty, and a little spicy… every bite is a flavor party.

✔ Budget-Friendly – Uses simple ingredients you can find anywhere, all for around $20 total.

✔ Customizable – Swap in your favorite veggies or protein it’s your stir fry, after all!

✔ No Takeout Needed – Tastes even better than your favorite restaurant version (and way healthier).

Grab your skillet and let’s get cooking your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you!

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What You’ll Need To Make

Let’s Talk Key Ingredients (And Why They Rock!)

 Chicken Breast – Lean, protein-packed, and cooks up tender in minutes. Perfect for keeping this stir fry light but satisfying.

 Sugar-Free Peanut Butter – Adds creamy richness without the sugar crash. Pro tip: Room temp PB blends smoother into that dreamy sauce.

 Red Cabbage – Crispy, colorful, and packed with antioxidants. It’s the veggie that brings both crunch and a pretty pop of purple to your plate.

 Broccoli & Bell Peppers – Because every great stir fry needs texture and sweetness. These guys soak up the sauce like flavor sponges.

️ Chili Garlic Sauce – Just enough kick to keep things interesting. Adjust the amount if you’re feeling brave (or not).

 Cauliflower Rice – The low-carb hero that soaks up all the saucy goodness. No guilt, all flavor.

 Budget Bonus – Most ingredients cost less than $3 each, and staples like olive oil and spices don’t even count (because you already have them, right?).

Mix ‘em together and boom dinner’s done with minimal fuss and maximum taste. Who’s hungry?

NOTE: For measurements and rest of the ingredients check the recipe card below.

What You’ll Need To Do

⏱ 35 mins | Serves 4 | Low-Carb

Let’s Make This Flavor-Packed Stir Fry!

Step 1: Whip Up That Sauce

Grab a big skillet or wok and toss in all the sauce ingredients peanut butter, tamari, Swerve, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili garlic sauce. Stir it up, then crank the heat to medium-high until it starts bubbling. Once it’s boiling, dial the heat down to a happy simmer and keep stirring until the peanut butter melts and the sauce thickens (about 5–6 minutes). Pour it into a bowl and set it aside. (Trust me, it’ll smell amazing already.)

Step 2: Cook That Chicken

Wipe out the skillet (careful, it’s hot!), then add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in your chicken pieces and cook ’em over medium-high heat, stirring like you mean it, until they’re golden and almost done (4–5 minutes). Throw in the ginger, give it another minute of love, then scoop the chicken into a bowl and take a quick breather.

Step 3: Veggie Party Time

Same skillet, another tablespoon of olive oil. Now add the red cabbage, broccoli, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they’re just tender but still crisp (nobody likes soggy veggies).

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Dump the chicken back in, sprinkle those crunchy cashews on top, and pour that glorious sauce over everything. Stir it all up and let it cozy together for just 1-2 minutes don’t overdo it!

Finale: Taste and Devour

Kill the heat, give it a quick taste (add more tamari or chili sauce if you’re feeling wild), and serve it hot over steamed cauliflower rice. Boom dinner’s ready in under 35 minutes, and your kitchen smells like a takeout dream. Dig in!

Pro tip: Chop everything ahead of time for an even quicker meal. Leftovers? Heck yes – they’re just as good tomorrow.

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (1 of 4 portions):

Glycemic Impact

• Glycemic Index (GI): ~15 (Low)
• Glycemic Load (GL): ~3 (Very Low)

Macros

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 18g (Healthy fats from peanut butter, sesame oil, cashews)
• Carbs: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Net Carbs: 9g

Why It’s Blood-Sugar Friendly:

✅ Low-carb veggies (cabbage, peppers)

✅ No refined sugars (sweetener is optional)

✅ High protein + healthy fats slow digestion

Perfect for keto, diabetic-friendly, or low-GL diets! Let me know if you’d like adjustments.

Yes, this recipe is diabetes-friendly! Here’s why:

Diabetes-Friendly Features

✅ Low Glycemic Load (GL ~3): Won’t spike blood sugar.

✅ High Protein (28g/serving): Slows glucose absorption.

✅ Healthy Fats (18g): Peanut butter, sesame oil, and cashews improve satiety and stabilize blood sugar.

✅ Fiber-Rich Veggies (3g fiber): Red cabbage and peppers slow carb digestion.

✅ No Refined Sugars: Uses sugar-free peanut butter and Swerve (or skip sweetener entirely).

To Make It Even More Diabetes-Friendly:

• Swap cashews for almonds (lower carb impact).
• Increase fiber by adding broccoli or chia seeds to the sauce.
• Serve with avocado for extra blood-sugar-stabilizing fats.
• Monitor portion sizes (1 serving = 1/4 recipe).

Pro Tip: Pair with a vinegar-based side (like quick-pickled cucumbers) to further reduce glycemic response.

Already a solid choice for blood sugar management enjoy guilt-free!

Easy Ingredient Swaps for Your Stir Fry

Protein Swap

• Chicken → Thinly sliced beef, shrimp, tofu, or tempeh
• Cashews → Almonds, peanuts, or sunflower seeds for crunch

Veggie Variations

• Red cabbage → Green cabbage, bok choy, or Brussels sprouts (shredded)
• Broccoli → Snap peas, zucchini, or green beans
• Bell pepper → Carrots or sugar snap peas for sweetness

Sauce Twists

• Peanut butter → Almond butter or tahini for nut-free
• Tamari → Coconut aminos or low-sodium soy sauce
• Rice vinegar → Lime juice or apple cider vinegar

Grain/Carb Options

• Cauliflower rice → Brown rice, quinoa, or regular rice
• Want noodles? Try zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles

️ Spice Level

• Chili garlic sauce → Sriracha, red pepper flakes, or skip for mild

Budget Tips

• Swap cashews for cheaper peanuts
• Use frozen stir-fry veggie mix instead of fresh

Every swap keeps it tasty while making the recipe work for YOU!

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Fun Recipe Tweaks to Mix It Up

Flavor Boosters

• Add 1 tsp fish sauce for umami depth
• Toss in 1 tbsp lime zest for bright citrusy notes
• Finish with fresh cilantro or basil

Sauce Variations

• Make it sweeter: add 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• Make it creamier: stir in 2 tbsp coconut milk
• Make it tangier: double the rice vinegar

Extra Veggie Power

• Throw in mushrooms for meaty texture
• Add bean sprouts for extra crunch
• Include water chestnuts for that restaurant-style bite

Protein Upgrades

• Marinate chicken in 1 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tsp ginger first
• Use thigh meat instead of breast for juicier results
• Add crispy bacon bits on top (because bacon makes everything better)

Dietary Adjustments

• Make it Whole30: skip peanut butter, use almond butter
• Make it nut-free: use sunflower seed butter instead
• Add extra protein: stir in an egg at the end

⏱ Time Savers

• Use bagged coleslaw mix instead of chopping cabbage
• Grab pre-chopped stir fry veggies from the produce section
• Use frozen riced cauliflower to skip steaming

Cooking Method Twists

• Try air frying the chicken first for extra crispiness
• Roast the veggies separately for deeper flavor
• Grill the chicken beforehand for smoky notes

Every tweak keeps the recipe fresh and exciting while still being crazy delicious! Which variation will you try first?

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Pro Tips for Stir Fry Success

Prep Smart

• Cut chicken and veggies similar sizes for even cooking
• Measure all sauce ingredients before starting (it comes together fast!)

Cooking Hacks

• Use high heat for best stir fry texture
• Don’t overcrowd the pan cook in batches if needed
• Let chicken sit undisturbed for 1 minute to get nice browning

Sauce Secrets

• Warm peanut butter slightly if too thick to mix
• Taste sauce before adding to adjust sweetness/heat
• Mix 1 tsp cornstarch with sauce for thicker consistency

Veggie Wisdom

• Add harder veggies (like broccoli) first
• Keep stir fry moving constantly for perfect crisp-tender texture
• Undercook slightly since residual heat keeps cooking

Serving Suggestions

• Warm plates before serving to keep food hot longer
• Top with extra cashews and green onions for presentation
• Serve sauce on side for picky eaters

Leftover Magic

• Revive leftovers with quick pan reheat (not microwave)
• Turn into lettuce wraps for next-day lunch
• Add extra veggies when reheating to refresh

These little tricks will take your stir fry from good to restaurant-quality amazing! What tip will you try first?

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Budget-Friendly Tips

Smart Savings for Your Stir Fry

Protein Choices

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts (often cheaper and more flavorful)
• Swap half the chicken with canned chickpeas or scrambled eggs
• Buy family packs of chicken and freeze portions

Veggie Savings

• Use green cabbage instead of red (usually costs less)
• Choose seasonal veggies on sale
• Grab frozen stir fry blends instead of fresh

Pantry Swaps

• Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter (often cheaper)
• Use regular soy sauce instead of tamari or coconut aminos
• Skip cashews or use crushed peanuts from the bulk bin

Shopping Tricks

• Buy store brand olive oil and sauces
• Purchase ginger paste instead of fresh ginger root (lasts longer)
• Check the discount produce rack for slightly wilted veggies (perfect for cooking)

Portion Control

• Stretch the recipe by adding extra cabbage or riced veggies
• Serve with inexpensive white rice instead of cauliflower rice
• Make it a soup by adding broth and noodles

♻ Waste Not Tips

• Save veggie scraps for homemade broth
• Use leftover sauce as a salad dressing
• Freeze unused ginger for future recipes

These wallet-friendly tweaks keep the flavor big while keeping costs small! Which money saver will you try?

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Diet-Friendly Variations

Here’s how to adapt this stir fry for Keto, Low Carb, and Paleo diets:

Keto & Low Carb Version ✅

• Already Keto-Friendly! This recipe is naturally low-carb with only minor tweaks needed:
• Confirm your peanut butter has no added sugar
• Use sugar-free chili garlic sauce (or make your own)
• Double-check that your tamari/coconut aminos are gluten-free (many brands sneak in sugars)
• Increase healthy fats by adding avocado slices or extra sesame oil

Paleo Version

• Swap these ingredients:
• Peanut butter → Almond butter or cashew butter (peanuts aren’t Paleo)
• Soy sauce/tamari → Coconut aminos (soy-free)
• Swerve → Raw honey or maple syrup (in moderation, for strict Paleo omit sweetener entirely)
• Cauliflower rice → Serve over spiralized veggies or skip the base

Bonus Tips for All Versions:

• Need more protein? Add an extra egg or bacon bits
• Veggie boost: Throw in mushrooms or spinach
• Extra crunch: Toasted coconut flakes instead of nuts (for nut-free Paleo)

All versions keep the big flavor while staying diet-friendly. Which one will you try?

(Note: Always check labels for hidden sugars/additives if strict compliance is needed!)

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Delicious Serving Ideas for Your Stir Fry

Classic Bowl – Serve over cauliflower rice for low-carb, or jasmine rice if carbs aren’t a concern. Top with extra cashews and sesame seeds for crunch.

Lettuce Wraps – Spoon into butter lettuce or romaine leaves for a fresh, crunchy handheld meal. Perfect for lunch!

Noodle Twist – Swap the cauliflower rice for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to keep it low-carb but noodle-y.

Salad Style – Serve chilled over mixed greens with extra dressing for a satisfying salad option.

Taco Night Remix – Use as a taco filling in low-carb tortillas or cheese shells. Add avocado and lime crema.

Breakfast Bowl – Top with a fried egg for a protein-packed breakfast. The runny yolk makes an amazing sauce!

Appetizer Portions – Serve in small bowls with toothpicks for party-friendly finger food.

Meal Prep Magic – Divide into single-serving containers with extra veggies for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Comfort Food Upgrade – Mix with cooked spaghetti squash for a hearty, veggie-packed dinner.

Each serving style gives this versatile stir fry a whole new personality! Which will you try tonight?

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Perfect Beverage Pairings for Your Stir Fry

Non-Alcoholic Options

• Jasmine green tea – floral notes complement the peanut sauce beautifully
• Sparkling limeade – citrus cuts through the richness
• Ginger kombucha – adds probiotic goodness with zesty spice
• Coconut water – tropical and hydrating
• Iced hibiscus tea – tart and refreshing contrast

Beer & Cider

• Crisp lager – cleanses the palate between bites
• Hefeweizen – banana/clove notes love the ginger
• Dry cider – apple brightness balances the heat
• Saison – peppery yeast enhances the dish’s spice

Wine & Cocktails

• Off-dry Riesling – fruity with balancing acidity
• Gewürztraminer – lychee notes pair magically
• Gin basil smash – herbal freshness elevates the meal
• Moscow mule – ginger beer ties everything together

For Spice Lovers

• Mango lassi – cools the chili heat
• Mexican coke – real cane sugar tames the burn
• Peach iced tea – sweet stone fruit vibes

Fun Bonus

• Serve with hot sake for an authentic experience
• Try lemongrass soda for Southeast Asian flair

Every sip enhances the flavors! Which pairing speaks to you?

Smart Storage & Reheating Tips

Storage Guidelines

• Refrigerate in airtight container for 3-4 days
• Freeze for up to 2 months (sauce may separate slightly)
• Store sauce separately if meal prepping for best texture

❄️ Freezing Tips

• Portion individual servings before freezing
• Leave out fresh herbs/cashews to add after reheating
• Use freezer-safe bags laid flat to save space

Reheating Like a Pro

• Stovetop: Medium heat with splash of water or broth to revive sauce
• Microwave: Cover and heat at 50% power in 1-minute intervals
• Air Fryer: 300°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispness

Revival Tricks

• Toss in fresh veggies when reheating for renewed crunch
• Drizzle with extra sesame oil to refresh flavors
• Sprinkle with fresh herbs or citrus zest before serving

Cauliflower Rice Note

• Store separately to prevent sogginess
• Reheat in dry pan to remove excess moisture

Pro Tip: The flavors often deepen after 1 day in fridge! Which method works best for you?

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Final Thoughts

And there you have it, folks a stir fry so tasty, you’ll forget it’s healthy. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to hit the spot. Don’t be surprised if you catch yourself licking the plate… I totally do. Give it a whirl, tweak it your way, and let me know how it turns out! Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got leftovers calling my name. Happy cooking, and may your skillet always be sizzling!

Recipe Card