Ever find yourself staring into the fridge wondering what to make with that half head of cabbage and a few chicken breasts? We’ve all been there—and this chicken cabbage recipe is the answer you didn’t know you needed. It’s a shockingly delicious, healthy chicken dinner that comes together in one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meal prep.
What I love most about this dish is its simplicity—tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and just the right amount of seasoning to bring it all to life. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb chicken recipe, a comforting meal with bold flavor, or just a new way to use up everyday ingredients, this one hits all the right notes.
So grab your skillet—this is about to become your new go-to dinner favorite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cabbage
If you’re looking for a go-to dish that’s equal parts comforting, nutritious, and weeknight-friendly, this chicken cabbage recipe is about to earn a spot in your regular rotation. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep. Perfect for those evenings when takeout is tempting but a homemade meal sounds better.
- Healthy and hearty: Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich cabbage, this dish fits beautifully into a low-carb or balanced eating plan.
- One-pan wonder: Fewer dishes, more flavor. You’ll only need a skillet or large sauté pan to bring this meal together.
- Customizable: Whether you like it mild and savory or with a spicy kick, the flavors are easy to tweak to suit your taste buds.
- Meal prep hero: It stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it a smart choice for make-ahead lunches or dinners.
Think of it as your midweek culinary lifesaver—simple, satisfying, and secretly impressive. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, sticking to a healthier routine, or just craving something flavorful without the fuss, this dish checks all the boxes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This chicken cabbage recipe is all about simplicity and bold, comforting flavor. You only need a handful of everyday ingredients to create something truly shockingly delicious—no fancy pantry required.
What You’ll Need:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for searing the chicken and building flavor
- 1 tablespoon butter – adds richness and depth
- 1 medium onion, chopped – brings a savory base
- 1 medium green cabbage, cored and chopped – the hearty star of the show
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – because garlic makes everything better
- 1 teaspoon paprika – for a touch of warmth and color
- Salt and pepper, to taste – always season to your liking
Ingredient Tips
- Chicken: Bite-size pieces cook faster and absorb flavor more evenly. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan so you get a good sear.
- Cabbage: Chop it into medium chunks—not too thin—so it holds its texture when sautéed.
- Paprika: Smoked paprika can be used instead if you want a hint of smokiness.
With just these few ingredients, you’re already on your way to a cozy, satisfying meal that feels both rustic and refined.
How to Make Chicken Cabbage
Ready to turn simple ingredients into something unforgettable? This chicken cabbage recipe comes together in one pan, making it a breeze to cook and even easier to clean up. Follow these step-by-step instructions and you’ll have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
How to Make It:
- Sear the chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-size chicken pieces, season with a little salt and pepper, and cook for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly golden and cooked through.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—this helps the chicken brown instead of steam. - Sauté the onion and garlic
Push the chicken to one side of the pan (or remove it briefly if your skillet is small). Add the butter and chopped onion, and cook for about 2–3 minutes until the onion softens. Stir in the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. - Cook the cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage and sprinkle in the paprika. Stir everything together, coating the cabbage well in the buttery, savory goodness. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
Pro tip: If your cabbage is overflowing the pan at first, let it wilt down for a minute or two before stirring. - Bring it all together
Toss the chicken back into the skillet (if removed) and stir everything together. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper to your preference.
You’re Done!
You’ll end up with a savory, one-pan chicken and cabbage skillet that’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it on its own or pairing it with your favorite side, this dish delivers big on taste without the fuss.
Pro Tips and Variations
Once you’ve mastered the base of this chicken cabbage recipe, there’s plenty of room to play. Whether you’re looking to switch things up or tailor it to dietary needs, these tips and variations will help you make it your own—without sacrificing that shockingly delicious flavor.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Cut evenly, cook evenly: Try to keep your chicken and cabbage pieces uniform in size. This ensures everything cooks at the same pace and you avoid overcooked bits.
- Let the chicken brown: Resist the urge to stir too often. Giving the chicken time to sear adds depth and boosts the overall flavor.
- Deglaze if needed: If any tasty browned bits stick to the pan, a splash of water, broth, or even a squeeze of lemon juice will loosen them up and add extra flavor to the dish.
- Season in layers: Taste as you go. A pinch of salt while cooking each component (chicken, onion, cabbage) brings out the best in each ingredient.
Easy Variations to Try
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a sprinkle of cayenne, or a splash of sriracha for an extra kick.
- Boost the veg: Toss in thinly sliced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra color, texture, and nutrients.
- Go smoky: Swap the regular paprika for smoked paprika to add an earthy, smoky edge to the dish.
- Swap the protein: Ground chicken, turkey, or even leftover rotisserie chicken can work in a pinch.
- Add a creamy twist: Stir in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer, comforting version.
Think of this recipe as your blank canvas—it’s flexible, forgiving, and open to creativity. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for one, you can adjust the flavors to match your mood or the contents of your fridge.
How to Serve Your Chicken Cabbage
Once your chicken and cabbage skillet is hot and ready, the next step is deciding how to serve it. Whether you’re craving something cozy or looking to keep things light and low-carb, this dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with just about anything.
Simple and Satisfying Ways to Serve It
- As-is in a bowl: It’s a complete meal on its own—protein, veggies, and flavor all in one. Perfect for a no-fuss dinner.
- Over rice: Serve it over steamed white, brown, or jasmine rice for a heartier meal that soaks up all the buttery, savory juices.
- With cauliflower rice: A great low-carb option that adds texture and keeps things light without skimping on satisfaction.
- Tucked into wraps: Spoon the mixture into warm tortillas or lettuce cups for a fun, handheld twist—great for lunch or a casual dinner.
- Topped with a fried egg: Want to level it up? A runny egg on top adds richness and turns this into serious comfort food.
- With crusty bread: Mop up every last bit with a slice of warm, crusty sourdough or a garlic roll.
Bonus Tip: Make it a Meal Prep Star
Divide leftovers into containers with your side of choice—rice, quinoa, or greens. It reheats wonderfully and often tastes even better the following day as the flavors have more time to meld.
Whether you’re enjoying it solo or turning it into a full dinner spread, this chicken cabbage recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—an easy, hearty, and delicious chicken cabbage recipe that proves simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying. With just one pan and a handful of pantry staples, you’re minutes away from a meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful.
Whether you’re cooking for the family, meal prepping for the week, or just need a quick dinner idea that actually delivers, this recipe is here to make your life easier—and tastier.
Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your new weeknight go-to’s. And hey, if you put your own spin on it, I’d love to hear how it turned out! If you’re in the mood for something with a sweet and savory twist, you might also enjoy this Honey Garlic Chicken Breast—another flavorful favorite worth adding to your rotation.
Chicken Cabbage Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts cut into small pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 medium green cabbage cored and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Heat the oil:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil.
Cook the chicken:
- Add the bite-size chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the onion and garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Cook the cabbage:
- Add the chopped cabbage and paprika to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
Combine everything:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve hot:
- Enjoy as-is or with your favorite side!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Total Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Protein | 27 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 75 mg |
| Sodium | 220 mg |
Note: Nutritional values are estimated and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is a great option for meal prep. Simply cook it as instructed, let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days and tastes just as good—if not better—the next day.
Can I freeze This Chicken Cabbage?
Yes, but with a small caveat: while the chicken freezes well, cabbage can become a bit softer once thawed. If texture isn’t a major concern for you, go ahead and freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What other seasonings can I use?
This recipe is super flexible. Feel free to swap or add seasonings like smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, or even a splash of soy sauce for a deeper umami flavor. Adjust based on your taste or what’s in your spice drawer.
Can I make this low sodium or dairy-free?
Of course!
For low sodium, reduce the salt and skip butter, or use an unsalted version.
To make it dairy-free, just replace the butter with more olive oil or your favorite plant-based substitute.
What protein alternatives work well?
If you’re out of chicken or just want something different, try:
Ground chicken or turkey
Tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist
Leftover roast chicken—just add it toward the end to avoid overcooking
What are the benefits of cabbage in chicken?
Cabbage adds fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making the dish more nutritious. It’s low in calories and pairs well with lean chicken for a healthy, balanced meal.