Easy Chicken and Cabbage Soup Recipe for Cozy Dinners
Winter evenings call for a warm, comforting meal. This chicken and cabbage soup is my go-to for cozy nights in just 45 minutes. It’s filled with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and rich flavors, turning simple ingredients into a hearty soup.
Imagine coming home after a long day, wanting something nourishing and quick. This soup is exactly what you need. It’s ready in just 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, quicker than ordering takeout.
This soup stands out with its perfect mix of flavors and textures. The green cabbage adds a nice crunch, while the shredded chicken gives you protein. It’s a budget-friendly recipe that shows you don’t need to spend a lot for a delicious meal.
Whether you’re feeding a big family or just want a cozy meal for yourself, this soup is perfect. Get ready to make a recipe that will become a favorite in your kitchen.
Table of Contents
Why This Hearty Winter Soup Will Become Your Family Favorite
Find a poultry broth recipe that makes weeknight dinners special. This chicken and cabbage soup is more than just a healthy choice. It’s a must-have for families wanting tasty, nutritious meals.
Making low-calorie soups that everyone loves can be tough. But this recipe gets it right, balancing taste and health. With only 141 calories per cup, it’s a meal you can feel good about.
Perfect for Busy Weeknight Meals
When time is short, this soup is a lifesaver. It’s ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights. The easy ingredients and quick cooking mean more time for enjoying a warm meal.
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Serves 8 people
- Easy one-pot cooking method
Budget-Friendly Comfort Food
Eating well doesn’t have to cost a lot. This soup uses affordable chicken and cabbage. You’ll save money without losing flavor or nutrition.
Health Benefits of Cabbage and Chicken Combination
This soup is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s packed with protein and essential nutrients. The mix of lean chicken and cabbage is a nutritional dream:
| Nutrient | Amount per Cup |
|---|---|
| Calories | 141 |
| Protein | 9g |
| Fiber | 9g |
| Sodium | 193mg |
With its great taste and health benefits, this soup will be a family favorite. It’s a must-have for your meal rotation.
Essential Ingredients for Your Chicken and Cabbage Soup
Making a tasty vegetable soup begins with picking the right ingredients. This dish needs a mix of ingredients that work well together. They should make a hearty and healthy meal.
To make a flavorful chicken and cabbage soup, you’ll need these key ingredients:
- 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 small head of green cabbage (8-10 cups chopped)
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 5 medium garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Optional: white vinegar for added depth
Choosing the right ingredients is key to making a memorable soup. Fresh veggies and tender chicken make a balanced, nutritious meal. It will warm you up from the inside.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 2 medium | Protein source |
| Green Cabbage | 1 small head | Bulk and nutrition |
| Chicken Broth | 8 cups | Liquid base |
| Olive Oil | 3 tablespoons | Sautéing vegetables |
“The secret to a great soup is using fresh, high-quality ingredients and letting them shine.” – Culinary Expert
Pro tip: Pick organic veggies and fresh chicken for better flavor. The right ingredients make a meal your family will enjoy.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making tasty easy soup recipes like chicken noodle soup needs attention to detail. Follow these steps to make a meal that will warm your family and friends’ hearts.
Preparing the Base
Begin by heating 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a big pot over medium heat. Add 1 cup of chopped sweet onion and cook until it’s soft, about 6 minutes. It’s important to let the onions get soft without burning.
Adding Vegetables and Seasonings
Then, add 2 minced garlic cloves and 4 cups of shredded cabbage. Cook these until the cabbage is tender, about 6 minutes. This step is key for adding depth to your soup.
- Add 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes
- Include 1 medium chopped turnip
- Season with ¼ teaspoon salt and pepper
Final Touches and Seasoning
Pour 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth into the pot. Add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and simmer for 15-20 minutes. The last step is 2 tablespoons of sherry vinegar, which brings a tangy flavor to your soup.
Pro tip: Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld perfectly.
Top with 4 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness. Your homemade chicken noodle soup is now ready to enjoy!
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Broth Consistency
Making the perfect broth for winter soups is all about technique and temperature. Your chicken and cabbage soup will shine if you master a few key strategies. These tips will turn simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful dish.
The secret to great poultry broth recipes is gentle simmering. Don’t let it boil too fast, as this can make veggies mushy and chicken tough. Instead, keep it at a soft, steady bubble. This lets flavors blend without ruining the ingredients.
- Simmer at low heat (around 180-190°F)
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
- Keep liquid levels consistent
There are several ways to thicken your broth:
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with cold water
- Purée a portion of vegetables directly in the soup
- Incorporate mashed beans for extra body
“The magic of a great soup is in its nuanced flavors and perfect consistency.” – Professional Chef
To add brightness and balance, finish your soups with a splash of acid. A squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar can make a big difference. It cuts through richness and adds depth.
| Broth Consistency Technique | Recommended Method |
|---|---|
| Thickening | Cornstarch slurry or vegetable purée |
| Flavor Enhancement | Acid finish (lemon/vinegar) |
| Simmering Temperature | 180-190°F |
Pro tip: Always taste and adjust seasoning after thickening to ensure perfect flavor balance.
Customization Options and Variations
Your vegetable soup can be a canvas for creativity. By trying different ingredients and techniques, you can make this basic soup your own. It will fit your taste and health needs perfectly.
This recipe is very versatile. You can change it to fit your likes or dietary needs easily.
Vegetable Add-ins
Make your soup even better with these additions:
- Broccoli florets for extra nutrition
- Red bell peppers for vibrant color
- Diced zucchini for subtle sweetness
- Spinach leaves for iron boost
Seasoning Alternatives
Try these seasonings for a burst of flavor:
- Italian blend: Add dried oregano, basil, and a splash of red wine vinegar
- Asian-inspired: Use sesame oil and soy sauce
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley
- Smoked paprika for depth
Making It Low-Carb
For low-carb diets, make these changes:
- Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets
- Reduce bean quantity
- Add more low-carb vegetables
- Use fewer carrots
Remember, the secret to a great soup is balancing taste and nutrition. Don’t be shy to try new things!
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Storing your delicious soup needs careful attention. This keeps the flavors fresh and ensures food safety. Your chicken and cabbage soup can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Refrigeration Best Practices
To keep your soup quality high, follow these storage tips:
- Cool the soup completely before storing
- Use glass or BPA-free plastic containers with tight-fitting lids
- Store at 40°F or below to prevent bacterial growth
- Keep soup in the coldest part of the refrigerator
Reheating Techniques
When reheating your soup, use these methods to keep it tasty:
- Transfer soup to a pot
- Heat on medium-low temperature
- Stir occasionally to prevent burning
- Bring to a gentle boil for 3 minutes to ensure food safety
“Proper storage and reheating can make your soup taste just as good as the day you made it!” – Culinary Expert
Freezing Considerations
Freezing isn’t recommended for this soup due to texture changes. However, you can preserve its quality by following these tips:
| Storage Method | Duration | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3-4 Days | Best preservation method |
| Freezing | Not Recommended | Potential texture loss |
Pro tip: If you need to extend the soup’s life, consider preparing smaller batches to ensure maximum freshness in your easy soup recipes.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Find out why this chicken and cabbage soup is a top pick for a healthy meal. It’s full of nutrients and supports your health goals. It’s a balanced meal that’s good for you.
Caloric Content and Macronutrients
This soup is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Here’s what you get in each serving:
- Total Calories: 390 per serving
- Protein: 43 grams
- Carbohydrates: 31 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 11 grams
- Fat: 10 grams
Vitamin and Mineral Profile
This meal is a treasure trove of vitamins and minerals. It’s especially good for your body:
- Vitamin A: Provided by carrots (400% daily recommended intake)
- Vitamin K: From cabbage (76% daily recommended intake)
- Potassium: 1,751 mg per serving
- Sodium: 893 mg per serving
This soup is a great choice for those watching their calories. It’s full of protein, fiber, and nutrients. These help keep you healthy.
Pro tip: Customize your healthy soup options by adjusting ingredients to meet your specific dietary needs.
Looking for a nutritious meal? This chicken and cabbage soup is both tasty and healthy. It shows that eating well can be enjoyable.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
When you make comfort food like chicken and cabbage soup, the right sides can make it amazing. Your hearty winter soups need pairings that match their rich, warm tastes.
Here are some tasty ways to make your soup better:
- Crusty artisan bread for dipping
- Warm garlic toast with herb butter
- Fresh parsley garnish
- Lemon-infused olive oil drizzle
Bread is key for hearty winter soups. Challah bread is especially good because it’s soft and soaks up the soup’s broth well. For more food, try these:
- Potato pierogi
- Kielbasa sausage
- Beef stroganoff
- Meat-stuffed cabbage rolls
For dessert, pick something sweet to contrast with your soup. Apple crumb cake, classic cheesecake, or traditional Medovyk are great choices.
Don’t forget about how your soup looks. Add fresh herbs, a dollop of cream, or some black pepper to make it look great on Instagram.
Conclusion
Your chicken and cabbage soup journey doesn’t end here. This recipe is more than a tasty dinner. It’s a nutritious, comforting meal that can become a kitchen staple. With just 45 minutes of prep, you get a dish full of nutrients and flavor.
This soup is a great choice for those who care about their health. It’s packed with protein and vitamins. Each serving has 32 grams of protein and over 100% of your daily vitamin A.
We encourage you to make this recipe your own. Try different veggies, change the seasonings, and add your own twist. Whether you need a quick dinner or a comforting meal, this soup will hit the spot. It’s perfect for satisfying your taste buds and supporting your health goals.
