Creamy Cabbage and Chicken

There’s something truly comforting about a dish that brings warmth and nourishment to the table, and that’s exactly what Creamy Cabbage and Chicken does. I remember the first time I tasted this delightful combination; it was during a chilly winter evening, and the aroma that filled the kitchen was simply irresistible. As the creamy sauce enveloped tender pieces of chicken and perfectly sautéed cabbage, I felt instantly at home. This dish has quickly become a staple, especially when I need something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Main Ingredients for Creamy Cabbage and Chicken

Each ingredient in Creamy Cabbage and Chicken plays a vital role in creating a rich and satisfying dish. The star of the show, chicken, delivers protein, while cabbage adds a delightful crunch and subtle sweetness. Along with a handful of spices and a creamy base, these ingredients come together to create a dish that is both comforting and nourishing.

• 1 ½ lbs. chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender and juicy, chicken thighs provide a rich flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• 2 tbsp. olive oil: Used for sautéing, olive oil adds a subtle fruitiness that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• 2 lbs. shredded cabbage: This hearty vegetable not only contributes texture but also absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
• ½ tbsp. sweet paprika: Adding warmth and a hint of sweetness, paprika gives the dish a lovely color and depth of flavor.
• 1 tsp. Italian herbs: A blend of dried herbs that brings an aromatic and savory essence to the dish.
• 1 tsp. salt (or to taste): Essential for enhancing all the other flavors in the dish.
• ¼ tsp. red pepper flakes: For those who like a little kick, red pepper flakes add a gentle heat.
• 3 tbsp. tomato paste: It enriches the sauce, adding a robust tomato flavor that balances the creaminess.
• 1 cup Half & Half: This creamy dairy product creates the luscious sauce that brings everything together.
• Fresh parsley, to garnish: A touch of freshness that brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

The Process for Making Creamy Cabbage and Chicken

Getting started on Creamy Cabbage and Chicken is a breeze, and I promise you won’t be disappointed with the results! Let’s dive into the process and see how easy it is to create this fabulous dish.

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. You want it hot enough that it shimmers, which will help to sear the chicken nicely. Once the oil is ready, carefully add the chicken thighs, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You should hear a satisfying sizzle as the chicken begins to cook, turning golden brown on the outside.
2. After about five minutes, the chicken should be nicely browned. At this stage, add the sweet paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until the chicken is well-coated with the spices, allowing them to cook for just a minute to release their flavors.
3. Next, it’s time to deglaze the skillet. Pour in about half a cup of water, stirring to loosen any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds incredible flavor to your sauce. After deglazing, add the tomato paste and mix it thoroughly with the chicken and spices.
4. Now, it’s time to introduce the star ingredient: the shredded cabbage. Add it to the skillet, stirring to combine everything. You’ll see the cabbage start to wilt and reduce in volume, absorbing all those wonderful flavors.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the Half & Half. Stir to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly distributed in the creamy sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 30 minutes. You’ll want to stir occasionally, allowing the cabbage to soften and the flavors to meld together.
6. After the cooking time, check the texture of your cabbage. Depending on the variety, it may take a bit longer to become tender. If the skillet looks dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water to keep it moist. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt if needed.
7. Once the cabbage is cooked through and the flavors are balanced, it’s time to serve. Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Ways to Customize

There are countless ways to personalize your Creamy Cabbage and Chicken to suit your tastes. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat level. You can also add a dash of hot sauce if you like it spicy.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or dill for a unique flavor twist.
• Using Different Meats: While chicken is fantastic, you could also try this dish with turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
• Making it Ahead: This dish keeps well, so consider making a double batch for easy lunches later in the week.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Creamy Cabbage and Chicken, there are so many delightful options to consider. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy this dish:

• With Rice: Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the creamy sauce for a truly satisfying meal.
• With Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into the sauce, making it an ideal side.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Pair with roasted or steamed vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish can easily be made in large quantities, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
• Comfort Food for Winter: The warmth of this dish makes it a perfect addition to your winter meals, ideal for chilly nights.
• Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day, as the flavors only get better!

FAQ

Conclusion

Creamy Cabbage and Chicken is truly a special dish that combines comfort and flavor in every bite. With its rich, creamy sauce and hearty ingredients, this meal is perfect for warming up on chilly nights. I encourage you to try making it for yourself; I’m sure it will quickly become a favorite in your home just like it has in mine!

Creamy Cabbage and Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Cabbage and Chicken is rich, creamy, and absolutely satisfying. This easy weeknight dinner combines tender chicken with perfectly sautéed cabbage in a luscious sauce. Experience the cozy flavors that will have you craving this dish again and again!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Skillet

Ingredients

  

• 1 ½ lbs. chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 2 lbs. shredded cabbage
• ½ tbsp. sweet paprika
• 1 tsp. Italian herbs
• 1 tsp. salt (or to taste)
• ¼ tsp. red pepper flakes
• 3 tbsp. tomato paste
• 1 cup Half & Half
• fresh parsley to garnish

Instructions

 

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes.
• Add the paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook for just 1 minute. Deglaze the skillet with about ½ cup of water.
• Add the tomato paste, stir, and add the cabbage. Sauté the cabbage for another 5 minutes and reduce the heat to medium-low.
• Add the Half & Half and cover the pan with a lid, cooking for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally, until the cabbage cooks through. (Depending on the cabbage variety, it may take a bit longer to cook. If you don’t have any liquid remaining in the skillet, just add some water and cook until the cabbage is soft).
• Taste and adjust the salt to your liking. Garnish with fresh, chopped parsley.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Variations: Try adding your favorite vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated just before serving.

Keyword Cabbage Dishes, Creamy Chicken Recipe, Hearty Chicken Meals, winter comfort food

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Meet Eva Sterling

I have a restless palate and I love that our blog covers such a wide range of food. I am always excited to cook something we haven’t tried before. I jump into every cooking session with enthusiasm, ready to chop, sauté, bake, or grill. I love the collaborative energy of our kitchen we all learn from each other, and that makes every dish we publish better.