Healthy Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe

Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe: Picture this it’s a chilly evening, and all you want is something warm, comforting, and hearty. A pot on the stove fills the air with the rich aroma of garlic, tender chicken, and simmering broth. That’s the magic of this Healthy chicken cabbage soup recipe.

Not only is this dish a satisfying way to nourish your body, but it also feels like a culinary hug. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is an all-around winner.

What sets this soup apart? It’s simple to make, packed with nutrients, and incredibly versatile. Plus, its low-calorie, high-protein content makes it a go-to for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.

What Makes Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe Special?

Chicken cabbage soup isn’t just another soup recipe. It’s a timeless dish that combines wholesome ingredients with effortless preparation.

Key Highlights

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients that are affordable and easy to find.
• Versatile: Adjust it to fit your dietary needs or personal taste preferences.

This soup isn’t just about convenience—it’s about creating something that feels good to eat, whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it with loved ones.

Ingredients Overview

To make this recipe even easier to follow, here’s a detailed table of ingredients and their quantities:

How to Make Healthy Chicken Cabbage Soup

Cooking this chicken cabbage soup is a breeze, even if you’re new to the kitchen. Let’s break it down step-by-step with more detail to ensure every aspect of your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Prepping your ingredients beforehand makes the cooking process much easier and faster. Here’s how:

1. Cabbage:
   • Rinse the cabbage thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
   • Remove the outer leaves if they appear damaged or wilted.
   • Slice the cabbage in half, cut out the tough core, and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and blend well with the soup’s texture.
2. Onion:
   • Peel the onion, cut it in half, and dice it finely. Smaller pieces will soften faster during cooking, creating a sweet and savory base flavor.
3. Garlic:
   • Peel the garlic cloves and mince them into small pieces. If you don’t have fresh garlic, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder can be a substitute.
4. Carrots:
   • Peel the carrots and slice them thinly. Thin slices cook quickly and ensure they meld seamlessly into the soup.
5. Chicken:
   • If using cooked chicken, shred it into small, manageable pieces using a fork. For raw chicken, boil or roast it with simple seasonings like salt and pepper, then shred once cooled.

Pro Tip: Assemble all your ingredients in bowls to streamline the cooking process.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Sautéing the aromatics is where the flavor-building magic begins:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
2. Add the diced onion and stir frequently. Cook for about 3-5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and soft. This releases its natural sweetness and forms a flavorful base.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to a minute. Keep stirring to prevent the garlic from burning—it should be fragrant but not browned.

Pro Tip: At this stage, you can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.

Step 3: Add the Veggies and Broth

Now it’s time to build the body of your soup:

1. Add the chopped cabbage and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the olive oil, onion, and garlic mixture. This step ensures the veggies absorb all the flavors from the aromatics.
2. Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth, making sure the vegetables are fully submerged. Use low-sodium broth if you prefer to control the salt content.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This helps the flavors start to meld together while softening the vegetables.

Pro Tip: For extra depth, toss in a bay leaf or two at this stage.

Step 4: Incorporate the Chicken

As the soup simmers, it’s time to add the star ingredient:

1. Reduce the heat to low or medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Avoid boiling at this stage to keep the chicken tender.
2. Add the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring it in evenly. The chicken will soak up the broth’s flavors, adding heartiness to the soup.
3. If you’re using herbs like parsley or thyme, this is the moment to sprinkle them in. Fresh herbs add brightness, while dried herbs bring depth.

Pro Tip: Taste the soup at this point to gauge the salt level. Add more if necessary, but remember you’ll season again later.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

This is where your soup transforms from good to great:

1. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start conservatively—you can always add more later.
2. Let the soup simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cabbage to become tender without turning mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Taste-test the broth one final time. Adjust the seasoning or add a splash of lemon juice for a bright, tangy finish.

Pro Tip: If the soup is too thick, you can add a little extra broth or water to adjust the consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Your chicken cabbage soup is ready to serve! Here’s how to make it even more delightful:

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
• Pair with a slice of crusty bread, a dollop of sour cream, or even a handful of croutons for added texture.

Bonus Tip: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

By following these detailed steps, you’ll end up with a comforting, delicious soup that’s sure to impress anyone at your table. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does chicken cabbage soup last in the fridge?

You can store this soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Simply reheat it on the stove or microwave for a quick meal.

Can I freeze chicken cabbage soup?

Yes, this soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

What can I pair with chicken cabbage soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or a side of steamed rice for a heartier meal.

Can I use other types of cabbage?

Absolutely! Red or Napa cabbage works too, though they may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This Healthy chicken cabbage soup recipe is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. From the moment you start cooking to that first warm, comforting bite, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying as it is nourishing.

Ready to try it? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and see for yourself why this soup is a timeless favorite.

For more comforting recipes, tips, and tricks, visit Purejoy Recipe or follow us on social media for daily inspiration. Don’t forget to share your version of the soup and tag us!