Cabbage Sautéed with Chicken

Cabbage sautéed with chicken is one of those simple, satisfying dishes that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something healthy, flavorful, and filling. Imagine tender pieces of chicken paired with crisp, slightly caramelized cabbage, all brought together with a burst of garlic, soy sauce, and a bit of seasoning. It’s comfort food with a light twist—light on the calories but full of heartwarming flavor. Trust me, you’re going to love how quickly this comes together!

Why You’ll Love Cabbage Sautéed with Chicken

Easy to Make:

This dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. With just a few simple ingredients and one skillet, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal on the table without any fuss.

Healthy & Light:

Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the cabbage, this dish is a great option for those looking to eat something light without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s low-carb and full of nutrients, making it a win for anyone watching their diet.

One-Pan Wonder:

Who doesn’t love a one-pan meal? The chicken and cabbage cook together in the same skillet, making clean-up a breeze. It’s an all-around easy recipe that saves you time and effort.

Flavor-Packed:

The cabbage soaks up all the delicious flavors from the chicken and seasoning, while the chicken stays tender and juicy. A dash of soy sauce and garlic add depth, while a touch of heat or sweetness is totally customizable.

Customizable:

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to fit your preferences. Want a bit more heat? Add chili flakes. Like it sweeter? A splash of honey will do the trick. This dish is as versatile as it is delicious.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this quick and tasty cabbage sauté with chicken:

Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work great here. The chicken is the star of the dish, providing protein and flavor.

Cabbage:

Green cabbage is the classic choice for this dish. It cooks down beautifully and takes on a sweet, savory flavor when sautéed.

Garlic:

Garlic adds that aromatic depth that makes this dish so irresistible. You can’t go wrong with a few fresh cloves sautéed to perfection.

Soy Sauce:

A splash of soy sauce brings umami to the dish and helps season the cabbage and chicken as they cook.

Olive Oil:

For sautéing the chicken and cabbage. A bit of oil ensures everything cooks evenly and doesn’t stick.

Onion:

Onions add a mild sweetness when sautéed, and they complement the cabbage and chicken perfectly. They also enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Salt & Pepper:

To season the dish to perfection. These two simple ingredients elevate all the flavors.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into how to make this simple and savory dish:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.

2. Sauté the Chicken:

Heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Cook the Aromatics:

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Add the sliced onion and garlic, and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened.

4. Add the Cabbage:

Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the onions and garlic. Let the cabbage cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften and slightly caramelize.

5. Add the Chicken Back In:

Once the cabbage is tender, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, and stir everything together, letting the flavors meld for another 2-3 minutes.

6. Adjust Seasoning:

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add a little more soy sauce for extra flavor, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Once everything is nicely combined, serve the cabbage sautéed with chicken hot! This dish is great on its own, or you can serve it with rice, quinoa, or even a side of crusty bread.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 270 kcal
Nutritional Breakdown per serving:

• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 660mg
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 30g

(Note: These values are based on standard ingredients used. Nutritional information will vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Cabbage Sautéed with Chicken

On Its Own:

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, making it a fantastic low-carb option for those who want something filling but light. Simply garnish with some fresh herbs or a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor.

With Rice or Quinoa:

Pair this savory dish with a side of steamed rice or fluffy quinoa for a more substantial meal. The soft grains complement the tender chicken and cabbage wonderfully.

As a Wrap:

For a fun twist, you can serve this sautéed chicken and cabbage in a whole-wheat wrap or lettuce leaves for a fresh, handheld meal.

With a Side of Roasted Veggies:

If you want to add some extra veggies to your plate, serve this dish alongside roasted sweet potatoes, carrots, or asparagus. They add color, flavor, and nutrients to the meal.

On a Salad:

Top a fresh green salad with the sautéed chicken and cabbage for a hearty, flavorful salad that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Additional Tips

Add More Veggies:

You can easily customize this dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Simply chop them up and add them to the pan with the cabbage for more texture and flavor.

Make It Spicy:

Want to turn up the heat? Add some chili flakes or a sliced fresh chili pepper while cooking the garlic and onions. It’s an easy way to give the dish a bit of a kick.

Use Different Cuts of Chicken:

If you prefer chicken thighs over chicken breasts, feel free to use them! Thighs tend to be more tender and juicy, and they’ll add extra flavor to the dish.

Leftovers:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

A1: Yes! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. You may need to adjust cooking times if using frozen chicken.

Q2: Can I use a different type of cabbage?

A2: You can absolutely use napa cabbage or purple cabbage instead of green cabbage. Both will work wonderfully, though the texture may vary slightly.

Q3: Can I add a sauce to this dish?

A3: Definitely! If you like a saucier dish, you can drizzle a bit of hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, or even a sweet chili sauce over the finished dish.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A4: Yes! You can prepare the chicken and cabbage earlier in the day and just heat everything up when you’re ready to serve. It reheats well in the skillet or microwave.

Q5: How can I make this dish more flavorful?

A5: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice before serving to brighten up the flavors. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or green onions also adds a fresh pop.

Q6: Can I use a different type of oil for cooking?

A6: Of course! If you don’t have olive oil, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even sesame oil for a different flavor.

Q7: Can I add more protein to this dish?

A7: Yes! Feel free to add cooked shrimp, beef, or tofu to increase the protein. Just sauté them along with the chicken.

Q8: Can I make this dish vegetarian?

A8: Absolutely! Skip the chicken and use tofu or tempeh as a protein substitute. You could also add chickpeas for a hearty, vegetarian version.

Q9: How can I make this dish spicy?

A9: If you like spice, add some chili flakes, fresh sliced chilies, or a dash of hot sauce to the dish. It’ll bring a nice kick to the savory flavors.

Q10: Can I make this dish ahead and freeze it?

A10: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

Conclusion

This Cabbage Sautéed with Chicken is a simple yet delicious dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for busy nights. It’s healthy, light, and satisfying with just the right amount of seasoning. Whether you’re serving it on its own or with a side, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy the ease of preparation and the savory goodness in every bite!

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