Chicken Cabbage Soup  

Get ready for a soothing bowl of warmth that combines tender chicken and nutritious cabbage in one cozy soup. This dish is called a chicken and cabbage soup recipe, and it pairs hearty produce with savory broth for a meal you can savor at lunch or dinner. In many soups you find at the store, the flavors may feel muted, but here, you get fresh aromas and a homemade touch.

People often turn to chicken soup when they want something comforting. By adding cabbage, you elevate that classic base into something lighter, yet still satisfying. This soup is a nice way to make chicken for the whole family, especially if you want to expand your dinner options or use up leftover produce. You can choose between chicken breast or chicken thighs, or even try using rotisserie chicken to speed things along.

For this delicious soup, you’ll see a blend of carrots, celery, onions, and fresh garlic cloves forming a flavorful base. After you saute these ingredients, you’ll add chicken broth, plus a head of cabbage (green or savoy cabbage), then let everything simmer. The result is a chicken soup with cabbage that warms you from the inside out. If you enjoy different soup recipes, this version might become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Hearty and Nutritious
    If you’re craving a hearty meal without the heaviness of certain comfort foods, this soup checks all the boxes. The combination of chicken pieces, green cabbage, and vegetables offers a filling meal rich in vitamins. You can also keep it low carb by skipping pasta or grains. Many people see this as a nutritious option for busy evenings.
  2. Versatile with Different Cabbage Types
    You might like standard green cabbage, savoy cabbage, or even napa cabbage if you want a slightly milder taste. Each type brings its own texture. Using fresh produce is key—use fresh leaves for the best flavor and to ensure they don’t turn mushy too quickly. You can also try red cabbage for a more colorful outcome.
  3. Quick to Prepare
    A lot of folks appreciate cabbage soup recipe ideas that don’t demand hours of prep. You can chop your veggies, saute, and then bring to a boil in a relatively short window. The cooking time from start to finish can fit into a busy schedule. Plus, you can choose to use rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken if you want to shave off even more time.
  4. Adaptable for Different Diets
    This chicken cabbage soup can work if you’re aiming for a low carb diet. It’s also feasible to make it gluten-free by checking the ingredients in your broth or chicken stock. If you want an Asian-inspired taste, you might add a splash of sesame oil or toasted sesame oil instead of standard cooking oil. That small twist can bring a special spark to the final dish.
  5. Easy to Store and Reheat
    Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container for easy storage. If you prefer to reheat for lunch the next day, the flavors may grow richer overnight. This ability to store and reheat makes the soup practical for meal prep. You can also freeze portions to enjoy later.

Ingredients

Below is a clear list of ingredients for your chicken and cabbage soup. You can adjust amounts based on personal preference, but these measurements are a good starting point.

Prepped Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Cabbage Soup

  1. Chicken
    • Choose one pound of skinless chicken. You can use boneless chicken breast or chicken thighs, depending on flavor and texture preferences. If you have frozen chicken, thaw it fully first. Or, if you want quick prep, you can also use rotisserie chicken (remove and chop the chicken meat).
  2. Head of Cabbage (1 medium)
    • A green cabbage is standard, but savoy or napa cabbage also works for this recipe. You’ll want to slice or coarsely chop the leaves. If you’re learning how to make cabbage in soup, aim for half-inch strips so they retain some bite.
  3. Carrot (2-3 large)
    • Carrot offers color, sweetness, and nutrients. Slice or dice them into smaller pieces so they cook evenly.
  4. Celery (2-3 ribs)
    • Celery adds subtle flavor and aroma. Chop into half-inch segments for best results.
  5. Onion (1 medium)
    • Yellow or white onion works. Dice it fine so it blends well.
  6. Garlic (4 cloves)
    • Garlic is essential to building that fragrant base. You can finely mince or crush. If you’re a big fan of garlic, don’t hesitate to add an additional clove or two.
  7. Broth (6-8 cups)
    • You can use chicken broth or a mix of chicken stock and water. If you prefer a deeper flavor, opt for low sodium so you can control the salt yourself. Some folks combine half broth and half water to keep the taste balanced.
  8. Seasoning
    • Common picks include italian seasoning, salt and pepper, and possibly a pinch of chili flakes if you like heat. Start with a teaspoon of italian seasoning. If you want an Asian flair, a drizzle of sesame oil or toasted sesame oil is delicious. Add a dash of pepper to taste near the end.
  9. Additional Vegetables (Optional)
    • Some people like to toss in broccoli florets or spinach for extra nutrients. If you do, add them near the end to prevent overcooking.
  10. Fresh Herbs
    • Chopped parsley, dill, or cilantro can brighten the final dish. Fresh parsley is especially popular if you aim for classic flavors.

This combination of ingredients is what makes this cabbage chicken soup so special. By sticking to these fundamental items, you’ll create a base that’s flexible enough for future tweaks.

Instructions

This is where we detail exactly how to bring your chicken cabbage soup to life. Feel free to adapt the approach based on the equipment you have. Some folks prefer a dutch oven, while others rely on a standard large pot. An instant pot is also an option for a quicker cook.

Step 1: Gather and Prep Ingredients

Prepped Vegetables and Chicken for Cabbage Soup

  1. Chop Vegetables
    • Rinse and peel the carrot. Slice it into chunks or half-moons. Chop the celery in similar-size pieces. Dice your onion. Finely mince or crush the garlic.
  2. Handle the Cabbage
    • Slice the head of cabbage into strips. Rinse the slices and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Chicken
    • If you picked chicken breast or chicken thighs, cut them into smaller cubes or strips. If you plan to cook the chicken whole and shred later, keep them intact. Alternatively, if using rotisserie chicken, pull the meat from the bones. If you do that, hold off on adding the chicken until the final phase of cooking.

Step 2: Saute the Base

  1. Heat the Pot
    • Set a large soup pot or Dutch oven on the stovetop and heat over medium-high. Add a tablespoon of oil (olive oil or sesame oil, depending on your preference) and let it warm up until it shimmers.
  2. Saute Onions and Garlic
    • Toss in the onions and garlic, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant.
  3. Add Celery and Carrots
    • Mix in the celery and carrot pieces. Continue to saute for another 3 minutes. This step softens the vegetables and releases extra aroma. If you want a deeper layer of flavor, add a pinch of salt and pepper at this point.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Broth

  1. Add the Chicken
    • If you’re working with raw boneless skinless chicken cubes or strips, add the chicken into the pot. Stir gently for a minute to let the surface seal. If using whole pieces, place them carefully so they brown slightly. If you’re using rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken, wait until later in the process so it doesn’t overcook.
  2. Pour in Broth
    • Add your broth or chicken stock. If it’s cold, let it warm. You can start with 6 cups and add more if you prefer a brothier consistency. This is also where you can incorporate extra water if needed. The pot should have enough liquid to cover the solids.
  3. Stir in Seasoning
    • Spoon in your chosen seasoning. This might be a teaspoon of italian seasoning plus a dash of chili flakes. Add pepper to taste. Keep tasting as you go so you don’t oversalt.

Step 4: Bring to a Boil and Simmer

Soup Pot with Chicken, Cabbage, and Vegetables Boiling

  1. Bring to a Boil
    • Increase your heat to high until the soup begins to bubble. This might take a few minutes. Once you see a rolling boil, reduce the heat to medium heat or medium-low so you can simmer gently.
  2. Add the Cabbage
    • Once the soup is at a simmer, add the cabbage. Stir to distribute it evenly. If your pot seems crowded, let the leaves wilt a bit, then stir again.
  3. Cover the Pot
    • Put the lid on (slightly ajar if you need to let steam escape) and let the mix simmer. Keep the flame steady so it doesn’t boil too hard.
  4. Simmer for 10
    • You’ll want to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes or until the cabbage is tender. If you used raw chicken pieces, check one for doneness. If it’s no longer pink and reaches an internal temp of 165°F, you’re good. For whole pieces, you can remove them now, then shred the meat and return it to the broth.

Step 5: Final Adjustments

  1. Shred the Chicken
    • If you started with whole chicken breast or chicken thighs, remove them carefully using tongs. Let them cool slightly, then shred the chicken with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. If you used raw cubed meat, you can skip this step unless you prefer a shredded texture.
  2. Taste and Season
    • Sample a spoonful of broth. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed to your preferred taste. Add extra italian seasoning or fresh chili flakes if you want more depth. If you want an Asian-inspired finish, swirl in a bit of toasted sesame oil at this point.
  3. Add Fresh Herbs
    • Stir in your fresh parsley or other fresh herbs you enjoy. This final burst of green makes the soup pop. If you have leftover spinach or kale, you could toss that in too for extra nutrients.

At this point, your cabbage and chicken mixture has transformed into a hearty masterpiece. The soup is ready to serve!

Pro Tips and Variations

This section helps you adapt the chicken and cabbage soup to match your unique tastes or dietary needs. Feel free to get creative with these ideas.

  1. Bone-In Chicken Thighs
    • Some cooks argue that chicken thighs develop richer flavor. If you want that route, cook the chicken with the bones, then remove bones before the final stage. The extra collagen can create a thicker broth.
  2. Instant Pot Shortcut
    • You can also prepare this in an instant pot. Use the Sauté setting on your appliance to cook the onions, carrot, celery, and garlic until softened. Then add your liquids and chicken. Set the pressure for about 8–10 minutes on high. Manually release, toss in the cabbage, and simmer briefly on Sauté until the leaves are softened.
  3. Add Extra Vegetables
    • Some folks like throwing in broccoli, zucchini, or peppers for variety. You can also add mushrooms for a meaty texture. Think about what’s in your fridge and use up leftover veggies.
  4. Adjust the Texture
    • If you find the soup too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce. If the soup is too thick for your liking, add more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. You control how hearty or soupy it becomes.

  5. Use Frozen Chicken
    • In a pinch, you can use frozen chicken if your cooking method (like an instant pot) allows it. Just confirm it’s safe to do so, and lengthen the cooking time as needed.

These variations show that you can easily tailor the chicken cabbage soup recipe to suit your style, your pantry, and your taste buds.

Serving Suggestions

Once your hearty soup is done, how do you enjoy it? Here are a few serving ideas to make every bowl shine.

  1. Warm Bread or Crackers
    • A simple crusty loaf pairs well with any chicken soup. Whole wheat rolls or hearty rye bread can also hold up to the broth’s moisture. If you’re strictly low carb, you might skip the bread and go for a green salad on the side.
  2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs
    • A sprinkle of parsley or dill brightens up each serving. This final garnish also makes the soup more visually appealing. Another option is fresh thyme leaves.
  3. Protein Boost
    • If you want even more protein, you can add drained chickpeas or white beans. This modifies the texture and can stretch the soup for more servings.
  4. Side of Grains
    • Brown rice or quinoa can complement the soup if you want a fuller meal. Cook them separately and spoon them into bowls before ladling soup on top.
  5. Toppings
    • Some enjoy a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt for extra creaminess. A small squeeze of lemon juice can further enhance the overall flavor of the soup. If you want spice, top it with chili flakes or a swirl of hot sauce.
  6. Alternative Carbs
    • If you’re not worried about carbs, egg noodles or small pasta shapes can create a more classic vibe, somewhat similar to a standard chicken soup. Cook them separately to avoid soaking up all the broth.

Conclusion

This chicken and cabbage soup merges the best traits of chicken soup with the nutrient-rich bonus of cabbage and other vegetables. It’s a great recipe when you want comforting flavors without feeling weighed down. The steps are straightforward: chop, saute, bring to a boil, and simmer the soup until you reach that perfect consistency. Along the way, you’ll notice how the aroma fills your kitchen, making it tough to wait until dinnertime.

We call it a cabbage chicken soup or a chicken cabbage soup, but you can adapt it to your taste. Whether you choose chicken thighs or chicken breast, or you skip raw poultry entirely by using cooked chicken from a rotisserie chicken, you’ll find the broth soaks up all the flavors from your veggies and fresh herbs. The final result is a savory combination that feels both light and hearty at the same time.

You can store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick lunch. Many people find that this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. If you prefer a crisp or less-soft cabbage, simply reduce the cooking time to keep some bite in your leaves. With minimal cleanup and a flexible approach, this dish will likely become one you turn to regularly.

Chicken Cabbage Soup

Emily
Warm up with this hearty chicken cabbage soup made with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and savory broth—a simple, healthy meal ready in under an hour.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American
Servings 6 peoples
Calories 210 kcal

Ingredients
  

Chicken

  • Choose one pound of skinless chicken. You can use boneless chicken breast or chicken thighs depending on flavor and texture preferences. If you have frozen chicken, thaw it fully first. Or, if you want quick prep, you can also use rotisserie chicken (remove and chop the chicken meat).

Head of Cabbage (1 medium)

  • A green cabbage is standard but savoy or napa cabbage also works for this recipe. You’ll want to slice or coarsely chop the leaves. If you’re learning how to make cabbage in soup, aim for half-inch strips so they retain some bite.

Carrot (2-3 large)

  • Carrot offers color sweetness, and nutrients. Slice or dice them into smaller pieces so they cook evenly.

Celery (2-3 ribs)

  • Celery adds subtle flavor and aroma. Chop into half-inch segments for best results.

Onion (1 medium)

  • Yellow or white onion works. Dice it fine so it blends well.

Garlic (4 cloves)

  • Garlic is essential to building that fragrant base. You can finely mince or crush. If you’re a big fan of garlic don’t hesitate to add an additional clove or two.

Broth (6-8 cups)

  • You can use chicken broth or a mix of chicken stock and water. If you prefer a deeper flavor opt for low sodium so you can control the salt yourself. Some folks combine half broth and half water to keep the taste balanced.

Seasoning

  • Common picks include italian seasoning salt and pepper, and possibly a pinch of chili flakes if you like heat. Start with a teaspoon of italian seasoning. If you want an Asian flair, a drizzle of sesame oil or toasted sesame oil is delicious. Add a dash of pepper to taste near the end.

Additional Vegetables (Optional)

  • Some people like to toss in broccoli florets or spinach for extra nutrients. If you do add them near the end to prevent overcooking.

Fresh Herbs

  • Chopped parsley dill, or cilantro can brighten the final dish. Fresh parsley is especially popular if you aim for classic flavors.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Gather and Prep Ingredients

  • Chop Vegetables
  • Rinse and peel the carrot. Slice it into chunks or half-moons. Chop the celery in similar-size pieces. Dice your onion. Finely mince or crush the garlic.
  • Handle the Cabbage
  • Slice the head of cabbage into strips. Rinse the slices and set aside.
  • Prepare the Chicken
  • If you picked chicken breast or chicken thighs, cut them into smaller cubes or strips. If you plan to cook the chicken whole and shred later, keep them intact. Alternatively, if using rotisserie chicken, pull the meat from the bones. If you do that, hold off on adding the chicken until the final phase of cooking.

Step 2: Saute the Base

  • Heat the Pot
  • Set a large soup pot or Dutch oven on the stovetop and heat over medium-high. Add a tablespoon of oil (olive oil or sesame oil, depending on your preference) and let it warm up until it shimmers.
  • Saute Onions and Garlic
  • Toss in the onions and garlic, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant.
  • Add Celery and Carrots
  • Mix in the celery and carrot pieces. Continue to saute for another 3 minutes. This step softens the vegetables and releases extra aroma. If you want a deeper layer of flavor, add a pinch of salt and pepper at this point.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Broth

  • Add the Chicken
  • If you’re working with raw boneless skinless chicken cubes or strips, add the chicken into the pot. Stir gently for a minute to let the surface seal. If using whole pieces, place them carefully so they brown slightly. If you’re using rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken, wait until later in the process so it doesn’t overcook.
  • Pour in Broth
  • Add your broth or chicken stock. If it’s cold, let it warm. You can start with 6 cups and add more if you prefer a brothier consistency. This is also where you can incorporate extra water if needed. The pot should have enough liquid to cover the solids.
  • Stir in Seasoning
  • Spoon in your chosen seasoning. This might be a teaspoon of italian seasoning plus a dash of chili flakes. Add pepper to taste. Keep tasting as you go so you don’t oversalt.

Step 4: Bring to a Boil and Simmer

  • Bring to a Boil
  • Increase your heat to high until the soup begins to bubble. This might take a few minutes. Once you see a rolling boil, reduce the heat to medium heat or medium-low so you can simmer gently.
  • Add the Cabbage
  • Once the soup is at a simmer, add the cabbage. Stir to distribute it evenly. If your pot seems crowded, let the leaves wilt a bit, then stir again.
  • Cover the Pot
  • Put the lid on (slightly ajar if you need to let steam escape) and let the mix simmer. Keep the flame steady so it doesn’t boil too hard.
  • Simmer for 10
  • You’ll want to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes or until the cabbage is tender. If you used raw chicken pieces, check one for doneness. If it’s no longer pink and reaches an internal temp of 165°F, you’re good. For whole pieces, you can remove them now, then shred the meat and return it to the broth.

Step 5: Final Adjustments

  • Shred the Chicken
  • If you started with whole chicken breast or chicken thighs, remove them carefully using tongs. Let them cool slightly, then shred the chicken with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. If you used raw cubed meat, you can skip this step unless you prefer a shredded texture.
  • Taste and Season
  • Sample a spoonful of broth. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed to your preferred taste. Add extra italian seasoning or fresh chili flakes if you want more depth. If you want an Asian-inspired finish, swirl in a bit of toasted sesame oil at this point.
  • Add Fresh Herbs
  • Stir in your fresh parsley or other fresh herbs you enjoy. This final burst of green makes the soup pop. If you have leftover spinach or kale, you could toss that in too for extra nutrients.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 210 kcal
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 500mg
Total Carbohydrates: 10g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 25g
Keyword chicken and cabbage soup, chicken cabbage soup, healthy chicken soup, low carb soup

FAQs

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions. This section clarifies the health perks and meal ideas involving cabbage, chicken, and other soup ingredients.

How healthy is cabbage soup?

Cabbage soup is often known for its low-calorie profile. Cabbage contains vitamins C and K, along with fiber. When you mix it with a lean protein source like skinless chicken, carrots, and celery, you get a nutritious blend. It can be low carb and still taste satisfying, especially if you control the salt and avoid heavy creams.

Does cabbage go with chicken?

Yes. Cabbage and chicken pair nicely in many dishes. The mild sweetness of cabbage complements the savory flavor of chicken. In soups and stews, cabbage softens without losing its character, creating a perfect base for tender chicken. If you incorporate a tasty seasoning, the synergy becomes even more apparent.

What are the benefits of cabbage in chicken?

Cabbage provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It also adds volume to chicken soup, making it more filling without boosting calories excessively. The leaves become tender during cooking and absorb the flavors of broth, garlic, and other ingredients. This leads to a well-rounded meal that supports a balanced diet.

Can I eat cabbage every day?

Many people enjoy cabbage regularly. It’s generally safe to eat daily in reasonable servings, but moderation is key. Too much raw cabbage might cause stomach discomfort in some individuals. Still, adding cooked cabbage to your diet, such as in chicken soup with cabbage, can be a wholesome approach to getting more vegetables.

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