Are you looking for a comforting, healthy meal that’s easy to prepare? Look no further than this chicken cabbage soup recipe! Packed with flavor and nutrients, this soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need a quick, wholesome dinner. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making this delightful dish, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and more.
Table of Contents
chicken cabbage soup Ingredients
To make a hearty chicken cabbage soup, you will need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 2 cups (150g) chopped green cabbage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup (150g) green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
- 1 cup (150g) corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious chicken cabbage soup:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts (or thighs) and season with salt and pepper. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Chicken
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the seared chicken back into the pot along with the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, thyme, and oregano.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir well.
Step 6: Final Seasoning
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if using.
Cooking chicken cabbage soup Tips
- Make it Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits.
- Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
- Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it and then mix it back in.
chicken cabbage soup: Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
This chicken cabbage soup is not only low in calories but also high in protein and fiber, making it a great option for a healthy meal.
Storage Advice
- Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
chicken cabbage soup Variations
Feel free to customize your chicken cabbage soup with these variations:
- Add More Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or basil for a different flavor profile.
chicken cabbage soup FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this soup. Just add it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat through.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this chicken cabbage soup is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Conclusion
This chicken cabbage soup is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So why not give it a try? Share your results and any variations you make in the comments below!
