Chicken and cabbage are a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a healthy meal option, or something flavorful and versatile, a chicken and cabbage recipe is always a winner. These two ingredients are not only budget-friendly but also packed with nutrients—chicken provides lean protein, while cabbage offers fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
From stir-fries to soups, baked dishes, and salads, the combination of chicken and cabbage lends itself to countless delicious possibilities. In this blog post, we’ll explore five simple chicken and cabbage recipes that are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, these recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen. Let’s dive in!
Classic Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry
What Makes It Special
Classic chicken and cabbage stir-fry is a go-to recipe for anyone craving a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast but don’t want to compromise on taste or nutrition. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and savory sauces creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet light. Best of all, it’s incredibly versatile—customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your palate.
Ingredients Needed
To whip up this delicious stir-fry, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
- Chicken breast (boneless and skinless): Sliced into thin strips for quick cooking.
- Green cabbage: Shredded or thinly sliced for the perfect crunch.
- Garlic: Minced to infuse a rich, aromatic flavor.
- Soy sauce: For a salty, umami kick.
- Sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and enhances the dish’s overall depth.
- Optional extras: Chili flakes, ginger, carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli.
For those looking to upgrade their kitchen tools, consider the Stainless Steel Wok – perfect for stir-frying with even heat distribution.
How to Cook It
Follow these simple steps to prepare your classic chicken and cabbage stir-fry:
- Prep Your Ingredients: Slice the chicken into thin strips and season lightly with salt and pepper. Shred or slice the cabbage, and mince the garlic. If using additional vegetables, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat the Oil: Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sesame oil and allow it to heat until shimmering.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken strips to the hot wok and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until fully cooked and lightly golden. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add a bit more sesame oil if needed, then toss in the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the cabbage and any other vegetables. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the cabbage softens but still retains some crunch.
- Combine and Season: Return the cooked chicken to the wok and pour in the soy sauce. Stir everything together to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until heated through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat and garnish with chili flakes or sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for Perfection
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle in chili flakes or add a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Get Creative with Veggies: Incorporate other crunchy vegetables like carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers to add color and variety.
- Use High Heat: Stir-frying works best at high heat to quickly cook the ingredients without making them soggy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Stir-fry in batches if needed to ensure all the ingredients cook evenly and maintain their texture.
- Add a Touch of Sweetness: Balance the savory flavors with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of brown sugar.
This classic chicken and cabbage stir-fry is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy nights. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite side for a complete meal!
To learn how to prepare tender chicken breasts, check out our guide on How to Cook Chicken Breast. For more easy and flavorful side dishes, you can also explore Easy Side Dish Recipes for Every Meal.
One-Pan Baked Chicken and Cabbage
Why You’ll Love It
One-pan baked chicken and cabbage is the ultimate recipe for anyone who loves delicious meals with minimal effort. This dish shines because of its simplicity: everything cooks together in a single baking pan, which means fewer dishes to wash and less time spent in the kitchen. The chicken becomes perfectly tender and juicy, while the cabbage absorbs all the savory flavors, turning soft and caramelized in the oven. It’s a wholesome, comforting meal that’s as perfect for a weeknight dinner as it is for meal prep.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to create this effortless yet flavorful dish:
- Chicken thighs: Bone-in and skin-on for extra juiciness and flavor.
- Savoy cabbage: Quartered or sliced into large chunks, perfect for roasting.
- Olive oil: Helps everything roast to golden perfection.
- Seasoning mix: A combination of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and dried thyme (or your favorite seasonings).
- Optional extras: Lemon wedges, fresh rosemary sprigs, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for added flavor.
For the best baking sheets to make clean-up even easier, check out the Nonstick Baking Sheet Set for consistent, hassle-free roasting.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your one-pan baked chicken and cabbage:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub them with olive oil and generously season both sides with the seasoning mix.
- Prepare the Cabbage: Cut the savoy cabbage into quarters or thick wedges. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.
- Arrange on the Pan: Place the cabbage pieces on the baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Arrange the chicken thighs on top of or beside the cabbage.
- Roast in the Oven: Bake for 35–40 minutes, turning the cabbage halfway through to ensure even browning. The chicken should be golden and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Variations
- Add Root Vegetables: For a heartier meal, toss chunks of potatoes, sweet potatoes, or carrots in olive oil and seasoning, then roast alongside the chicken and cabbage.
- Use Other Cuts of Chicken: Swap thighs for drumsticks or boneless chicken breasts, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
- Try Different Cabbages: Substitute savoy cabbage with green cabbage, Napa cabbage, or even Brussels sprouts for a slightly different flavor and texture.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze during the last 10 minutes of baking for a touch of sweetness.
- Make It Spicy: Sprinkle red chili flakes or drizzle with hot sauce before serving for a spicy twist.
One-pan baked chicken and cabbage is a versatile, foolproof recipe that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking for a meal-prep-friendly option, this dish is sure to satisfy while keeping cleanup stress-free!
This simple one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights! If you need more quick dinner ideas, take a look at 20 Cheap and Easy Dinner Ideas for Busy Weeknights. You can also learn about the Top Baking Powder Substitutes to pair with any baked goods served alongside.
Healthy Chicken and Cabbage Soup
Perfect for Cold Days
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of warm, nourishing soup. Healthy chicken and cabbage soup is a perfect choice for those cold days when you’re craving something hearty yet light. Packed with lean protein from the chicken and loaded with vitamins from the cabbage, this soup is not only delicious but also low-calorie and ideal for anyone looking to eat healthy. It’s a simple, wholesome dish that fills you up without weighing you down, making it great for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this cozy and healthy soup:
- Shredded chicken: Use pre-cooked shredded chicken (such as rotisserie chicken) or cook fresh chicken breasts and shred them.
- Napa cabbage: Thinly sliced for a tender texture that melts beautifully into the soup.
- Chicken broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content and keep it heart-healthy.
- Garlic and onion: Finely minced to build the base flavor of the soup.
- Spices: Include salt, pepper, dried thyme, and a pinch of paprika for a subtle warmth.
- Optional extras: Fresh parsley, lemon juice, or a splash of soy sauce for added depth of flavor.
How to Prepare
Making this soup is as easy as it is satisfying. Follow these steps:
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add the Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
- Cook the Cabbage: Stir in the sliced Napa cabbage and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes until the cabbage becomes tender but still retains some texture.
- Season to Taste: Add salt, pepper, dried thyme, and a pinch of paprika. Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Customization Ideas
- Add Noodles: Toss in egg noodles, rice noodles, or even spiralized zucchini for a hearty, comforting twist.
- Incorporate Rice or Quinoa: Add cooked rice or quinoa for extra texture and to make the soup more filling.
- Go Creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream for a richer, creamier soup.
- Boost Protein: Mix in a handful of white beans, chickpeas, or lentils for added protein and fiber.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Add-Ons: Include other vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutrient content.
Healthy chicken and cabbage soup is a true crowd-pleaser that can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. Its light, brothy base makes it a guilt-free indulgence, while the variety of customization options ensures you’ll never get bored. Perfect for cold days or anytime you need a comforting, nutritious meal, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
For more cozy soup recipes, check out 10 Best Soup Recipes for Cozy Meals This Winter. If you’re looking for more budget-friendly options, be sure to browse through our Affordable Meal Plans for Healthy and Easy Meals.
Low-Carb Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry Wraps
Why It’s a Favorite
Low-carb chicken and cabbage stir-fry wraps are a favorite for those following low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets. This dish combines the savory flavors of seasoned ground chicken with the natural crunch and freshness of cabbage leaves, which serve as a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional wraps. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy stir-fry in a portable, hand-held format—perfect for meal preppers and on-the-go eaters alike.
Ingredients Needed
To make these delicious and nutritious wraps, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ground chicken: Lean and protein-packed, this forms the base of the filling.
- Cabbage leaves: Use large, sturdy leaves of green or Napa cabbage as your low-carb wraps.
- Ginger: Freshly grated to add a warm, zesty kick.
- Garlic: Minced for depth of flavor.
- Soy sauce: For a savory, umami boost (use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option).
- Sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and richness to the stir-fry.
- Optional toppings: Chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or shredded carrots for extra flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s how to prepare these flavorful low-carb wraps:
- Prepare the Cabbage Wraps:
- Carefully separate the cabbage leaves, keeping them intact.
- Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 30 seconds to soften them slightly, then transfer to an ice bath. Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel and set aside.
- Cook the Filling:
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes).
- Stir in soy sauce and mix until the chicken is well-coated. Adjust the seasoning to taste by adding salt, pepper, or a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
- Assemble the Wraps:
- Spoon the stir-fried chicken mixture into the center of each cabbage leaf.
- Fold the sides of the leaf inward and roll it up like a burrito, or simply fold it taco-style for an easier wrap.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Arrange the wraps on a platter and garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or shredded carrots if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a Dipping Sauce: Serve these wraps with a light dipping sauce like sesame-soy vinaigrette, spicy sriracha mayo, or garlic-lime dressing to elevate the flavors.
- Add a Side Dish: Pair the wraps with a crisp coleslaw or a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing side.
- Make It Meal Prep-Friendly: Prepare the chicken filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble the wraps just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Turn It Into a Bowl: Skip the wraps entirely and serve the stir-fried chicken over shredded raw cabbage or zucchini noodles for a quick low-carb bowl.
- Boost the Veggies: Add diced mushrooms, bell peppers, or water chestnuts to the filling for added crunch and variety.
Low-carb chicken and cabbage stir-fry wraps are a versatile, satisfying, and guilt-free meal that delivers on both flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re following a specific diet or just looking for a healthier take on traditional wraps, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Easy to make and packed with bold, savory flavors, these wraps are sure to earn a regular spot on your meal plan!
This recipe is perfect for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet. For more low-calorie meal ideas, check out Meals 500 Calories and Under: Delicious and Healthy Ideas. You can also try pairing your stir-fry wraps with How to Make Green Bean and Bacon: A Quick and Delicious Recipe.
Shredded Chicken and Cabbage Slaw
Quick and Refreshing
Shredded chicken and cabbage slaw is a light, crunchy dish that’s as refreshing as it is versatile. Perfect for a quick lunch, a healthy snack, or as a side dish, this slaw is a great way to incorporate protein and vegetables into your meal in a delicious and satisfying way. The crispness of the cabbage pairs beautifully with the tender shredded chicken, creating a balanced texture, while the tangy dressing ties it all together. Whether you’re looking for a no-cook recipe on a busy day or a healthy addition to your BBQ spread, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this vibrant and nutritious slaw:
- Shredded chicken: Use leftover chicken breast, rotisserie chicken, or boil and shred fresh chicken for a protein-packed base.
- Thinly sliced cabbage: Green or purple cabbage works perfectly, or use a mix for added color.
- Shredded carrots: Adds natural sweetness and bright color.
- Dressing: Choose between a tangy vinaigrette (made with olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and honey) or a creamy mayo-based dressing.
- Optional extras: Chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans), raisins, diced apples, or fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for extra texture and flavor.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to whip up this quick and refreshing slaw:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Shred the chicken using two forks or your hands.
- Thinly slice the cabbage and shred the carrots using a mandoline or box grater.
- Make the Dressing:
- For a tangy vinaigrette, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- For a creamy dressing, mix mayonnaise, a splash of lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of sugar until smooth.
- Assemble the Slaw:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cabbage, and carrots. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve:
- Let the slaw sit in the fridge for about 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled as a light lunch, a side dish, or even in a wrap.
Pro Tips
- Add Extra Texture: Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts for a satisfying crunch.
- Incorporate Sweetness: Toss in a handful of raisins, dried cranberries, or diced apples to add a touch of sweetness that balances the tangy dressing.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or dill can enhance the flavor and add a burst of freshness to the slaw.
- Switch Up the Dressing: Experiment with Asian-inspired flavors by using a sesame-ginger dressing, or go bold with a smoky chipotle-lime mayo.
- Make It Meal-Prep Friendly: Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the slaw from becoming soggy.
Shredded chicken and cabbage slaw is a vibrant, nutritious dish that’s easy to prepare and endlessly customizable. Its crisp, refreshing texture makes it ideal for warm days or as a complement to heavier main dishes. Whether you’re aiming for a light, protein-packed lunch or a colorful side for a potluck, this slaw is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe repertoire!
Looking for more protein options? Try out 10 Easy Ground Bison Recipes You Need to Try. For another light and flavorful dish, check out The Best Calabacitas Recipe: Flavorful & Easy to Make.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we’ve explored five delicious and versatile chicken and cabbage recipes, each offering a unique way to enjoy these nutritious and budget-friendly ingredients. From the bold flavors of the Classic Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry to the hearty comfort of the One-Pan Baked Chicken and Cabbage, and from the soothing warmth of the Healthy Chicken and Cabbage Soup to the innovative twists of Low-Carb Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry Wraps and Shredded Chicken and Cabbage Slaw, there’s truly something for everyone.
These recipes showcase just how adaptable chicken and cabbage can be. Whether you’re seeking a quick dinner for a busy weeknight, a low-carb meal option, or a refreshing side dish, these recipes are easy to prepare and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. Add your favorite spices, incorporate additional veggies, or try out different cooking methods to make these dishes truly your own. The possibilities are endless!
We hope these recipes inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and bring a new level of excitement to your meals. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just for yourself, these recipes are sure to be a hit.
If you’re looking for more healthy meal ideas, try our How to Cook Perfect Steelhead Trout Recipe. For more quick dinner inspiration, check out 25 Easy Instant Pot Recipes for Quick Dinner Meals.
We’d Love to Hear From You!
What’s your favorite way to cook with chicken and cabbage? Have you tried any of the recipes shared here? Or do you have a unique recipe of your own that you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments below! Your ideas and feedback might just inspire someone else to try something new.
Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your favorite chicken and cabbage creations with us!