Chicken and cabbage recipes are an excellent choice for anyone seeking a blend of healthy ingredients and mouthwatering flavors. These dishes are ideal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or satisfying cravings while staying on track with your nutrition goals. From a quick chicken and cabbage stir fry to a comforting cabbage chicken casserole, the variety of ways to pair these two ingredients ensures there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re preparing a low-carb chicken cabbage skillet or an Asian-style chicken and cabbage dish, this combination promises to deliver taste and nourishment in every bite.
Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from cabbage, these recipes are also great for those following keto or low-carb diets. Options like braised chicken and cabbage, chicken cabbage salad recipes, and spicy chicken cabbage stir-fry showcase how versatile this duo can be. Whether you’re after a hearty one-pot chicken cabbage dinner or a light chicken cabbage soup, this article has you covered with creative and delicious ideas.
Best Chicken and Cabbage Recipes to Try
Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipes
Here are the ingredients for the Spicy Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry:
- 2 boneless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup carrots, julienned or shredded
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chili garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Steamed rice (optional, for serving)
A spicy chicken cabbage stir-fry is the perfect meal when you need something fast, flavorful, and nutritious. Start by slicing boneless chicken breast or thighs into thin strips, seasoning them with garlic, ginger, and a touch of soy sauce. Stir-fry the chicken in a hot skillet until golden brown, then set it aside. Next, add shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions to the skillet, cooking just long enough to retain their crunch. Combine the chicken and vegetables, and toss them in a spicy sauce made with chili garlic paste, soy sauce, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Serve over steamed rice or enjoy it as is for a low-carb chicken cabbage skillet.
Asian-Style Chicken and Cabbage Stir Fry with Ginger and Soy Sauce
Here are the ingredients for the Asian-Style Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy Sauce:
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup snow peas, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
This Asian-style chicken and cabbage dish brings vibrant flavors to the table. To make this recipe, marinate the chicken in a mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and a hint of honey for sweetness. Sauté the chicken until it’s cooked through, then stir-fry shredded cabbage, bell peppers, and snow peas. Finish by mixing everything together with the marinade, letting the sauce coat every bite. The combination of tender chicken and sautéed cabbage creates a balanced, delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Low-Carb Chicken Cabbage Skillet for Busy Weeknights
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or cumin, as preferred)
- 4 cups finely chopped cabbage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
If you’re following a low-carb diet, this chicken cabbage skillet is an excellent option for a quick chicken cabbage meal. Sauté diced chicken with onions, garlic, and your favorite spices, then add finely chopped cabbage to the skillet. Let the cabbage cook down slightly to create a tender yet slightly crisp texture. For added flavor, sprinkle in smoked paprika or cumin and a squeeze of lemon juice. This simple chicken cabbage recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare and makes for an easy, satisfying dinner.
Healthy Chicken and Cabbage Main Dishes
Braised Chicken and Cabbage with Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
Braised chicken and cabbage is a classic, hearty dish that’s both healthy and flavorful. To prepare, sear bone-in chicken thighs in a deep skillet or Dutch oven until golden brown. Remove the chicken, then sauté garlic, onions, and a mix of shredded green and red cabbage in the same pan. Deglaze with chicken broth and add a knob of butter for a rich, silky texture. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together. This dish is perfect for serving with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Cabbage Chicken Casserole: A Comforting One-Pot Meal
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the casserole dish)
For those who love one-pot meals, a cabbage chicken casserole is a great option. Start by layering shredded cabbage at the bottom of a casserole dish, then add diced, cooked chicken on top. Mix together a creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, and a pinch of nutmeg for a comforting, hearty flavor. Pour the sauce over the cabbage and chicken, sprinkle breadcrumbs or more cheese on top, and bake until golden and bubbly. This dish combines simplicity and comfort, making it a family favorite.
Keto Chicken Cabbage Recipe for a Low-Carb Lifestyle
- 2 boneless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (apple cider or white vinegar)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
If you’re looking for a keto-friendly dish, this recipe offers all the flavors you crave without the carbs. Sear chicken thighs or breasts with olive oil and seasonings, then set them aside. In the same pan, cook cabbage with garlic, onions, and a splash of vinegar to add depth. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to create a rich, creamy sauce, and then return the chicken to the skillet to simmer. This keto chicken cabbage recipe is indulgent yet perfectly aligned with a low-carb lifestyle.
To explore more creamy chicken delights, check out the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, which features a similarly indulgent texture.
Chicken and Cabbage Soup and Stews
Chicken and Cabbage Soup with Hearty Vegetables
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
A warm bowl of chicken and cabbage soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days. To prepare, start by sautéing diced onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot until softened. Add shredded cabbage, chunks of cooked chicken, and your choice of herbs such as thyme and bay leaves. Pour in chicken broth, bring it to a boil, and then let it simmer until the vegetables are tender. For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This chicken and cabbage soup is not only filling but also packed with nutrients for a healthy meal.
Spicy Chicken and Cabbage Stew for Chilly Nights
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 jalapeños, chopped (adjust for desired heat)
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning chicken)
If you enjoy bold flavors, a spicy chicken and cabbage stew will warm you up in no time. Start by browning chicken thighs in a heavy pot, then remove them and sauté onions, garlic, and chopped jalapeños for heat. Add shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot, along with spices like paprika, cayenne, and a pinch of cumin. Return the chicken to the pot and let it simmer until the meat is tender and the flavors are well developed. Serve this stew with crusty bread or a side of rice for a satisfying, hearty meal.
Salads and Wraps with Chicken and Cabbage
Chicken Cabbage Salad Recipe with Tangy Dressing
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded purple cabbage
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (for crunch)
For the dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
A chicken cabbage salad is a refreshing, nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare. Start by shredding green and purple cabbage for a colorful base, then add cooked, shredded chicken breast, grated carrots, and sliced almonds for crunch. For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey for a tangy-sweet flavor. Toss the salad together, ensuring every ingredient is coated in the vibrant dressing. This chicken cabbage salad recipe is perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner.
Chicken Cabbage Wraps: A Portable Healthy Meal
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cups finely chopped cabbage
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the wraps:
- 8 large cabbage leaves (blanched briefly in boiling water to soften)
- Toothpicks (optional, to secure wraps)
Chicken cabbage wraps are a delicious and low-carb alternative to traditional wraps. Start by preparing a flavorful filling with ground chicken, diced onions, garlic, and soy sauce, then stir in finely chopped cabbage for added crunch. Use large cabbage leaves as the wrap, blanching them briefly in boiling water to make them pliable. Fill each cabbage leaf with the chicken mixture, roll them up tightly, and secure with a toothpick if needed. These wraps are great for on-the-go meals or as an appetizer for gatherings.
Quick and Easy Chicken and Cabbage Recipes
One-Pot Chicken Cabbage Dinner in Under 30 Minutes
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cups thinly sliced cabbage
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups spinach or kale (optional, for added nutrients)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
When time is of the essence, a one-pot chicken cabbage dinner is a lifesaver. To make this dish, sauté diced chicken breast with garlic and onions in a large skillet. Add thinly sliced cabbage, cherry tomatoes, and a handful of spinach or kale for extra nutrients. Season with paprika, salt, pepper, and a splash of chicken broth to create a light sauce. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the cabbage to soften and absorb the flavors. This quick chicken cabbage meal is not only easy to prepare but also minimizes cleanup, making it ideal for busy nights.
Simple Chicken Cabbage Recipe for Weekday Lunches
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for stir-frying)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Quinoa or brown rice (optional, for serving)
A simple chicken cabbage recipe can be a go-to for meal prep or a healthy midday meal. Start by stir-frying strips of chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Remove the chicken from the pan and cook shredded cabbage with a touch of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor. Combine the chicken and cabbage in the pan, allowing them to cook together for a few minutes to marry the flavors. Serve this dish on its own or pair it with quinoa or brown rice for a balanced lunch.
If you’re looking for more creative ways to pair chicken with vibrant ingredients, the Alice Springs Chicken Recipe offers a unique take with mushrooms and honey mustard.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chicken and Cabbage Dishes
Cooking Tips to Retain Cabbage’s Crunch and Flavor
When preparing chicken and cabbage recipes, it’s important to avoid overcooking the cabbage to preserve its texture and flavor. For stir-fries, cook cabbage over high heat for a few minutes to keep it crisp. For soups and stews, add the cabbage toward the end of the cooking process to prevent it from becoming too soft. If you’re braising or roasting cabbage, slice it into thick wedges to maintain its structure. These simple tips ensure that cabbage remains a vibrant and delicious component in your dishes.
Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts for Different Recipes
The type of chicken you choose can significantly impact the flavor and texture of your dish. For recipes like braised chicken and cabbage or one-pot meals, bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks add depth and richness. For stir-fries and quick meals, boneless chicken breasts or thighs work best due to their faster cooking time. Shredded chicken from a rotisserie or poached chicken can be perfect for salads, soups, and wraps. By selecting the right cut of chicken, you can elevate the overall experience of your meal.
Balancing Seasonings for Chicken and Cabbage Combinations
Cabbage has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with bold seasonings. Use spices like garlic, ginger, paprika, cumin, or chili flakes to enhance your dish. For Asian-inspired recipes like chicken and cabbage stir fry, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar create a balanced umami profile. When making creamy dishes like a cabbage chicken casserole, a hint of nutmeg or thyme can add depth. Experimenting with seasonings allows you to customize flavors to suit your preferences while keeping your meals exciting and flavorful.
For an additional boost, serve these recipes with a side of Cottage Cheese Recipes to add extra protein and creamy texture to your meal.
FAQs
What Makes Chicken and Cabbage Recipes Healthy?
Chicken and cabbage recipes are packed with essential nutrients. Chicken provides lean protein, which supports muscle growth and repair, while cabbage is high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. Together, they form a nutrient-dense meal that is low in calories and fat, making these dishes an excellent choice for those aiming to maintain a balanced and healthy diet.
Can I Use Different Types of Cabbage?
Absolutely! Green cabbage is the most common variety used in recipes, but you can also experiment with red cabbage, savoy cabbage, or napa cabbage. Red cabbage adds a vibrant color and slightly peppery flavor, while napa cabbage has a more delicate, tender texture, making it ideal for Asian-style chicken and cabbage dishes. Feel free to mix and match to suit your preferences and the recipe.
How Can I Make a Vegetarian Version of Chicken and Cabbage Recipes?
To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute chicken with plant-based protein options like tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas. For stir-fries, marinate tofu or tempeh in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for added flavor. In soups or casseroles, chickpeas provide a hearty, protein-packed alternative. With a few adjustments, you can enjoy the same flavors and textures while keeping the dish entirely plant-based.
Are Chicken and Cabbage Recipes Keto-Friendly?
Yes, many chicken and cabbage recipes are naturally keto-friendly or can be easily adapted. Cabbage is low in carbs and high in fiber, making it a great choice for a keto diet. Pair it with chicken and healthy fats like olive oil, butter, or heavy cream for creamy casseroles, braises, or keto chicken cabbage skillet dishes. Just be mindful of sauces and seasonings that may contain added sugars.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken and Cabbage Dishes?
Store leftover chicken and cabbage dishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For soups or stews, allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating. To reheat, warm the dish gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture if needed. Freezing is also an option for casseroles or soups, but stir-fries are best enjoyed fresh.
What Sides Pair Well with Chicken and Cabbage Recipes?
Chicken and cabbage recipes are versatile and can be paired with various sides depending on the dish. For stir-fries or low-carb meals, serve with cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli. Soups and stews pair well with crusty bread or a side of roasted vegetables. Casseroles and braised dishes can be enjoyed with mashed potatoes, quinoa, or even a simple green salad. The possibilities are endless!
Conclusion
Chicken and cabbage recipes offer endless possibilities for creating healthy, delicious, and satisfying meals. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick chicken and cabbage stir fry, a hearty cabbage chicken casserole, or a comforting bowl of chicken and cabbage soup, there’s a dish for every occasion and taste preference. These recipes are not only versatile but also packed with nutrients, making them an excellent choice for anyone pursuing a balanced and nutritious diet.
From keto-friendly options like the low-carb chicken cabbage skillet to flavorful creations like braised chicken and cabbage or chicken cabbage wraps, this combination proves to be as adaptable as it is delicious. Plus, with tips for retaining cabbage’s crunch, choosing the right chicken cuts, and balancing seasonings, you’ll have all the tools needed to create mouthwatering dishes every time.
So, the next time you’re looking for a simple, wholesome, and satisfying meal, give one of these chicken and cabbage recipes a try. You’re sure to find a new favorite that will keep your family coming back for more.
