How to Make the Best Hmong Cabbage and Chicken Recipe

Hmong cuisine is all about simplicity, bold flavors, and wholesome ingredients—and this Hmong cabbage and chicken recipe is no exception. Have you ever craved a hearty yet light dish that comes together effortlessly in one pan? This savory stir-fry combines tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and a fragrant blend of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce for a comforting meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this dish pairs beautifully with steamed white rice or sticky rice, soaking up every bit of its rich, umami-packed sauce. Whether you’re new to Hmong cooking or looking to recreate a traditional Hmong recipe at home, this simple yet flavorful dish is sure to become a favorite. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

What is Hmong Cabbage and Chicken?

Hmong cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, simple cooking techniques, and bold yet balanced flavors. This Hmong cabbage and chicken recipe is a perfect example—combining tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and a savory, aromatic sauce to create a comforting, home-cooked meal.

At its core, this dish is a quick stir-fry that highlights the natural sweetness of cabbage while absorbing the rich flavors of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and fish sauce. It’s a staple in Hmong households, often served with steamed white rice or sticky rice to soak up the delicious juices.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple & Quick – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• Nutritious – Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable, everyday ingredients.
• Versatile – Easily adaptable with different proteins or veggies.

Whether you’re exploring Hmong cuisine for the first time or looking for a new go-to chicken and cabbage stir-fry, this recipe delivers a flavorful, satisfying meal with minimal effort. Ready to cook? Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Hmong Cabbage and Chicken

One of the best things about this Hmong cabbage and chicken recipe is its simplicity—just a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken thighs or breast, thinly sliced (thighs add more flavor)
• ½ head of green cabbage, sliced into strips
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce, for umami depth
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce, for authentic Hmong flavor
• 1 teaspoon sugar, to balance the flavors
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, for mild heat
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil, for stir-frying
• ½ cup water or chicken broth, for a light sauce

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 teaspoon chili flakes – for a bit of heat
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil – for extra depth of flavor
• 1 green onion, chopped, for garnish

Ingredient Tips:

✔ Chicken choice: Boneless, skinless thighs work best for tenderness, but chicken breast is a great lean option.
✔ Cabbage texture: Slice it into thin, even strips so it cooks quickly while maintaining a slight crunch.
✔ Balancing flavors: The fish sauce brings a savory depth, but if you prefer a milder taste, reduce it slightly and add a dash of lime juice for freshness.

Now that we have everything prepped, let’s move on to the cooking process!

How to Make Hmong Cabbage and Chicken

Cooking this Hmong cabbage and chicken recipe is as easy as it is delicious. With just one pan and a few simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful, home-cooked meal ready in no time. The key to a perfect stir-fry is high heat, quick cooking, and layering flavors—so let’s get started!

The Directions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure everything is ready to go:
✔ Slice the chicken into thin strips for even cooking.
✔ Shred the cabbage into bite-sized pieces so it stays crisp but tender.
✔ Mince the garlic and grate the ginger to release their full aroma.
✔ Mix the sauce by combining soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl for easy seasoning.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Warm 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
3. Take the chicken out of the pan and place it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

1. If necessary, add a bit more oil to the same pan before continuing.
2. Toss in the onions, garlic, and ginger, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Be careful not to burn the garlic—keep it moving in the pan!

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage

1. Add the sliced cabbage and stir well, letting it cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
2. Pour in ½ cup of water or chicken broth to help it steam and absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

1. Return the seared chicken to the pan and toss everything together.
2. Pour in the prepared soy sauce mixture, making sure it coats everything evenly.
3. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
2. Serve hot with steamed white rice or sticky rice for the perfect balance of flavors.
3. Enjoy this authentic Hmong comfort dish, packed with warmth and tradition!

Cooking Tips for the Best Results

• Don’t overcook the cabbage – You want it tender but still crisp for the best texture.
• Adjust the seasoning – Taste before serving and tweak the fish sauce, soy sauce, or pepper to your liking.
• Spice it up – Add chili flakes for heat or a drizzle of sesame oil for extra depth.

With these simple steps, you’ll have a delicious, Hmong-style cabbage and chicken stir-fry that’s perfect for any meal. Time to dig in!

Storing Tips for Hmong Cabbage and Chicken

Got leftovers? This Hmong cabbage and chicken recipe stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or next-day meals. Follow these simple storage tips to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Refrigerating Leftovers

✔ Cool Before Storing: Let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
✔ Storage Time: It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
✔ Reheating: Warm it in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce and keep the cabbage from drying out. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between for even heating.

Freezing for Later

• Best for Chicken Only: While the chicken freezes well, cabbage can become mushy after thawing. If planning to freeze, store the cooked chicken separately and stir-fry fresh cabbage when reheating.
• Use Freezer-Safe Containers: Store in portioned, airtight bags or containers for up to 2 months.
• Thawing: Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual for a quick meal.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Prep in Advance: Slice the chicken, chop the cabbage, and mix the sauce a day ahead to cut down on cooking time.
• Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and store portions for easy grab-and-heat meals throughout the week.

Whether you’re saving leftovers or planning ahead, these simple storage tips will help keep your Hmong chicken and cabbage stir-fry just as tasty the next time you enjoy it!

Conclusion

This Hmong cabbage and chicken recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings warmth and tradition to your table. With its tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and rich umami flavors, it’s a meal that’s both comforting and easy to prepare.

Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish offers versatility and nourishment in every bite. Plus, with its minimal ingredients and simple cooking process, it’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned home cooks.

Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to customize it—add extra veggies, adjust the seasoning, or spice it up to suit your taste. However you enjoy it, this Hmong-inspired stir-fry is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!

FAQs

Do you have questions about hmong cabbage and chicken recipe? Drop them in the comments and let’s get cooking!