Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Looking for a healthy yet hearty meal that’s easy on the wallet, quick to whip up, and incredibly comforting? This Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe checks every box. It’s the kind of nourishing dish your grandmother might’ve made — warm, filling, and soul-soothing. Whether you’re trying to eat clean, shed some pounds, or just enjoy a cozy bowl of goodness, this soup belongs in your rotation. Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich cabbage, it’s a powerhouse for your body and a hug for your taste buds.
Don’t miss our stuffed cabbage rolls recipe if you’re a fan of comfort food classics!
Why You’ll Love Chicken Cabbage Soup
- Healthy & Light: Low in carbs, high in nutrients
- Quick & Easy: From prep to table in under 45 minutes
- Budget-Friendly: Simple, accessible ingredients
- One-Pot Wonder: Less mess, more flavor
- Flexible & Customizable: Add what you love, skip what you don’t
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 6 bowls |
| Main Ingredients | Chicken, cabbage, carrots, celery |
| Flavor Profile | Savory, herby, slightly peppery |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Best For | Meal prep, detox, cold days |
Ingredients for Chicken Cabbage Soup
To make this cozy bowl of chicken cabbage soup, you’ll need the following:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs), chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Looking for inspiration? Try our oven-baked cabbage burgers recipe — another cabbage-forward favorite!
How to Make Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Stir in the carrots, celery, and cabbage. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Spices
Add chopped chicken pieces, salt, pepper, thyme, paprika, and chili flakes. Stir well to combine, coating the meat and veggies with spices.
Step 4: Pour in Broth & Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Stir in lemon juice for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls, top with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Discover great ideas like our fried chicken recipe for a crispier protein option.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Recipe
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your cabbage and chicken, the better your soup will taste. Avoid limp or wilted cabbage for the best texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Simmer the cabbage until just tender — about 20–25 minutes. Overcooked cabbage becomes mushy and can release a bitter flavor.
- Boost Flavor with Broth: Use a high-quality low-sodium chicken broth or make your own to control the salt level while still getting a deep, savory taste.
- Shred Chicken for Texture: If you’re using whole breasts or thighs, remove them after cooking, shred with forks, and return them to the pot for a tender bite.
- Add a Pop of Acid: A splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end of cooking brightens up the whole dish and balances the richness.
Flavor Variations
- Spice it Up: Add jalapeños, a dash of cayenne, or extra red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Go Asian-Inspired: Swap in ginger, soy sauce, and green onions, and finish with a splash of sesame oil for a whole new twist.
- Try It Creamy: Add ½ cup of coconut milk or a swirl of heavy cream to make it richer and silkier.
- Swap the Protein: Not a fan of chicken? Try turkey, ground chicken, or even tofu for a plant-forward version.
Check out our natural mounjaro recipe for balanced nutrition if you’re focusing on health-forward meals.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Pairings: Serve your soup with crusty sourdough bread or a slice of cornbread for a satisfying meal.
- Light & Fresh: Pair with a side salad or steamed green beans for a nutrient-packed dinner.
- Freezer-Friendly Lunches: Freeze in individual containers for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
Don’t miss our cabbage patties recipe for a creative way to use leftover cabbage!
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Make-Ahead: This soup is a meal-prepper’s dream. Make it up to 3 days ahead — it only gets better as the flavors meld.
- Fridge Storage: Let the soup cool completely before storing. Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer Storage: Freeze in portioned airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
FAQs About Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe
How many pounds can you lose on cabbage soup diet?
While results vary, many people report losing 5 to 10 pounds in a week using the cabbage soup diet. However, much of this is water weight and short-term. It’s not intended for long-term use.
What to add to cabbage soup for flavor?
You can boost flavor with garlic, fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, smoked paprika, lemon juice, and even a splash of soy sauce or vinegar for extra depth.
What are the pros and cons of cabbage soup?
Pros: Low-calorie, filling, rich in fiber and vitamins, great for detox.
Cons: Low in protein if not balanced, repetitive, and may lack essential fats or nutrients for long-term sustainability.
What is the secret ingredient in soup?
The secret weapon is a splash of acid — lemon juice or vinegar. It wakes up all the flavors. Some also swear by adding a dash of umami-rich soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for that savory depth.
Does cabbage soup burn belly fat?
No soup directly burns fat, but cabbage soup is low in calories and high in fiber, helping reduce bloating and calorie intake — which supports overall fat loss, including belly fat, when part of a balanced diet.
Looking for more wellness options? Don’t miss our green smoothie recipe for weight loss.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe isn’t just another easy dinner idea — it’s a heartwarming, belly-filling, budget-loving dish that delivers both taste and nutrition. Whether you’re meal prepping, trying to slim down, or just craving something simple and soul-satisfying, this soup deserves a spot in your go-to recipe collection.
Discover more nourishing ideas like our sweet potato superfood recipe to round out your healthy eating journey.
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Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs), chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
- Stir in the carrots, celery, and cabbage. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Spices
- Add chopped chicken pieces, salt, pepper, thyme, paprika, and chili flakes. Stir well to combine, coating the meat and veggies with spices.
Step 4: Pour in Broth & Simmer
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
- Stir in lemon juice for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls, top with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Make-Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
- Substitutions: Try ground turkey, tofu, or rotisserie chicken as alternatives.
- Pro Tip: Add a splash of vinegar or lemon at the end to brighten the flavor.
