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Healthy Comfort Food Chicken and Cabbage Soup Ready in 6-8 Hours | Gluten-Free & Low-Carb
Discover this family-friendly slow cooker recipe featuring lean chicken breast, nutrient-dense cabbage, and tropical-inspired seasonings grounded in nutritional science and culinary expertise.
Chicken and Cabbage Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Quick Answer: This Chicken and Cabbage Soup Crock Pot Recipe combines lean protein, nutrient-dense cruciferous vegetables, and aromatic seasonings into a gluten-free, low-carb dish that’s ready in 6-8 hours. Ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, and family dinners, this recipe delivers both comfort and nutrition.
Natalia and I perfected this recipe after countless family dinners across Thailand, Vietnam, and the Caribbean. The beauty of slow cooker meals lies in their simplicity—minimal prep, maximum flavor, and the therapeutic aroma that fills your home for hours. This soup exemplifies our philosophy: accessible recipes with serious nutrition. For similar comfort-food inspiration, explore our Best Slow Cooker Recipes Collection or Healthy Weeknight Dinners Guide.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Families
This chicken and cabbage soup recipe solves the weeknight dinner dilemma: nutritious, delicious, and completely hands-off. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation:
- Time-Efficient: 10 minutes prep + 6-8 hours hands-off cooking. Perfect for busy professionals and families.
- Budget-Friendly: Chicken breast and cabbage are affordable staples. Makes 6-8 servings for approximately $1.50 per bowl.
- Nutrition-Dense: Packed with lean protein (25g+), fiber (8g+), and vitamins C, K, and B6 from cabbage.
- Dietary Flexibility: Naturally gluten-free, low-carb, keto-friendly, and easily customizable for preferences.
- Meal Prep Champion: Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Portion into containers for grab-and-reheat convenience.
- One-Pot Simplicity: Minimal cleanup means more family time and less kitchen stress.
Chicken and Cabbage Soup Crock Pot Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 lbs | Chicken breast | Skinless, boneless, cut into 1-inch cubes |
| 1 medium head | Green cabbage | Chopped into 1-inch pieces (~8 cups) |
| 4 cups | Low-sodium chicken broth | Or homemade bone broth for deeper flavor |
| 2 medium | Yellow onions | Diced (about 1.5 cups) |
| 3 medium | Carrots | Sliced into 1/4-inch rounds (~1.5 cups) |
| 4 cloves | Fresh garlic | Minced (or 1.5 tsp garlic powder) |
| 2 tbsp | Olive oil | For sautéing aromatics (optional) |
| 1 tsp each | Dried thyme, oregano | Or 1 tbsp fresh mixed herbs |
| 1 tsp | Sea salt | Adjust to taste (more to be added later) |
| ½ tsp | Black pepper | Freshly ground, to taste |
Optional Add-Ins (Choose 1-3)
| Quantity | Add-In | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 cup | Diced tomatoes | Adds brightness and acidity |
| 1 can (15oz) | White beans (drained) | Adds fiber and plant-based protein |
| 2 tbsp | Apple cider vinegar | Adds tangy depth (add in last 30 min) |
| 1 tsp | Red pepper flakes | Adds gentle heat (adjust to taste) |
| 2 bay leaves | Bay leaves | Adds savory depth (remove before serving) |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients (5 minutes): Cut chicken breast into 1-inch cubes and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (this prevents the soup from becoming watery). Chop cabbage into 1-inch pieces, dice onions, and slice carrots. This mise en place approach ensures smooth cooking without interruptions.
- Optional Sauté Aromatics (2-3 minutes): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté diced onions for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. This step builds flavor complexity (known as the Maillard reaction) but is entirely optional if you’re short on time.
- Layer Your Crock Pot: Add to your crock pot in this order for optimal cooking: (1) Chicken cubes on bottom, (2) Sautéed aromatics (or raw if skipping that step), (3) Carrots, (4) Cabbage, (5) Pour chicken broth over everything. Add thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. If using optional add-ins (except vinegar and fresh herbs), add them now except those marked “add near end.”
- Cook on Low Setting (6-8 hours): Cover and set crock pot to LOW for 6-8 hours. LOW setting is crucial because it allows chicken to cook through gently without becoming tough, and gives flavors time to meld. High setting (4-5 hours) risks drying out the chicken. The soup is done when chicken shreds easily with a fork.
- Optional Finishing Touches (Last 30 minutes): If using apple cider vinegar, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking for maximum brightness without cooking off the flavor. Remove bay leaves if used. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper. For more body, mix 2 tbsp of cornstarch with 3 tbsp cold water and stir into soup during last 20 minutes.
- Serve Hot & Fresh: Ladle soup into bowls immediately. Top with fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro), croutons, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess. This soup keeps refrigerated for 5 days or frozen for 3 months in airtight containers.
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Soup:
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breast (cheaper than thighs, leaner protein). Cut to uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
- Pat chicken dry before adding to prevent excess liquid. This creates a more concentrated broth.
- Low setting is essential: High setting (4-5 hours) risks dry, stringy chicken. Low setting (6-8 hours) guarantees tender, succulent meat.
- Add acid last: Apple cider vinegar added at the end provides brightness without cooking off the flavor.
- Double the recipe: This soup freezes beautifully. Make a full batch and freeze half for future meals.
- Customize vegetables: Celery, green beans, zucchini, and spinach work great. Add delicate greens (spinach, kale) in the last 10 minutes.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken and Cabbage Soup
This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s a nutritional powerhouse designed to support your health and wellness goals. Here’s the science behind every ingredient:
🍗 Lean Chicken Protein
Chicken breast provides approximately 25-30g of complete protein per 3.5-ounce serving, making it ideal for muscle maintenance, recovery, and satiety. As a lean protein source, it supports weight management while providing essential amino acids. Studies show protein-rich meals increase thermogenesis (calorie burn during digestion) and reduce overall caloric intake by promoting fullness.
🥬 Cruciferous Cabbage (8g+ Fiber)
Cabbage is packed with insoluble fiber, supporting digestive health and regularity. It contains sulforaphane, a compound studied for its anti-inflammatory and potential anti-cancer properties. Rich in vitamin K (supports bone health and blood clotting), vitamin C (immune support), and anthocyanins (antioxidants), cabbage delivers nutrition with virtually zero calories.
🥕 Carrots & Vegetables (Beta-Carotene)
Carrots provide beta-carotene (converted to vitamin A), supporting eye health and vision. The broth base (especially bone broth) delivers collagen and gelatin, supporting joint, skin, and gut health. Together, these vegetables create a soup that supports immunity, reduces inflammation, and aids digestive function.
📊 Why This Recipe Works for Different Diets:
- Keto-Friendly: Low-carb base makes it compatible with ketogenic protocols. Monitor bean add-ins.
- Paleo: Naturally compliant (exclude beans if strict paleo). Bone broth version aligns with paleo principles.
- Whole30: Compatible (use compliant broth, skip legumes). Perfect for whole-food eating.
- Weight Management: High protein, high fiber, low calorie—ideal for satiety without excess calories.
Variations & Customizations
This recipe is highly adaptable. Use it as a canvas for your favorite ingredients and dietary preferences:
🍲 Variation 1: Creamy Chicken and Cabbage Soup
Add 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk in the last 10 minutes of cooking for a creamy, luxurious texture. Alternatively, blend 1/2 cup of cooked soup with 1/2 cup broth and stir back in for a lighter creamy version.
🌶️ Variation 2: Spicy Asian-Inspired
Add 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp ginger (minced), 1 tsp sesame oil, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes. Top with fresh cilantro, green onions, and a squeeze of lime. This variation honors our travels through Southeast Asia.
🌿 Variation 3: Garden Vegetable
Add zucchini, green beans, celery, and fresh spinach (add spinach last 10 minutes). Use herbs like basil, parsley, and oregano for an Italian flavor profile.
🍅 Variation 4: Tomato-Based (Minestrone-Style)
Add 1 can (28oz) diced tomatoes, 1 can white beans, and 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar. Add small pasta or rice in the last 20 minutes (or keep it low-carb by skipping starches).
🥥 Variation 5: Tropical Caribbean
Add 1/2 can coconut milk, 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1 tsp cumin, and diced plantain or sweet potato. Top with fresh cilantro and toasted coconut. This variation celebrates our Caribbean experiences.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calculated based on 8 servings of the basic recipe without optional add-ins. Actual values vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 185 kcal | 9% |
| Protein | 26g | 52% |
| Total Carbs | 12g | 4% |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugars | 3g | 3% |
| Total Fat | 3g | 5% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 4% |
| Cholesterol | 65mg | 22% |
| Sodium | 650mg | 28% |
| Potassium | 450mg | 13% |
| Vitamin A | 450 IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 25mg | 42% |
| Calcium | 60mg | 5% |
| Iron | 1.2mg | 7% |
*Based on USDA FoodData Central Database and MyFitnessPal calculations. Individual values may vary.
Storage, Freezing & Meal Prep Guide
❄️ Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: 5 days in an airtight container
- Temperature: Keep at 40°F or below
- Tip: Allow soup to cool to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation
🧊 Freezer Storage
- Duration: Up to 3 months
- Best Method: Portion into individual containers (2-cup portions) for easy reheating
- Container Choice: Use freezer-safe containers, leave 1-inch headspace for expansion
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in refrigerator, then reheat on stovetop over medium heat or microwave
📦 Meal Prep Strategy
Prepare this soup on Sunday and portion into 8 containers for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. Pack containers with the soup, seal tightly, and refrigerate. For work/office, transfer to a microwave-safe bowl in the morning. Reheat 2-3 minutes until steaming. This approach saves time, reduces food waste, and ensures consistent nutrition throughout your week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Expert answers based on nutritional science, culinary expertise, and 15+ years in the food industry.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, absolutely. Chicken thighs actually stay more moist during long cooking and have richer flavor. However, they contain more fat (approximately 8-10g per 3.5 oz vs. 3-4g for breast). Thighs are ideal if you prefer juicier texture and don’t mind the additional calories. Use skin-off thighs to keep fat content reasonable.
How long does this soup take? Can I make it on HIGH setting instead?
On LOW setting: 6-8 hours (recommended for tender chicken). On HIGH setting: 4-5 hours. However, HIGH setting risks drying out the chicken and making it stringy. If you’re short on time, use HIGH but check after 3 hours and add chicken only in the last 2 hours to avoid overcooking.
Is this recipe keto-friendly? How many carbs are there?
Yes, mostly keto-friendly. The basic recipe contains approximately 12g net carbs per serving (after subtracting fiber). For strict keto (under 20g carbs daily), this fits as a once-daily meal. Avoid adding beans (high carb) but white beans add only 8g additional carbs per serving. To reduce carbs further, use more cabbage and fewer carrots.
Can I prep ingredients the night before?
Absolutely! Cut chicken, vegetables, and store separately in containers overnight. In the morning, add everything to your crock pot and cook. This saves significant time on busy mornings. Tip: Don’t store cut chicken in water; pat dry and keep in sealed container to prevent bacterial growth.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen soup?
Best method (stovetop): Thaw overnight in refrigerator. Transfer to pot and reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until steaming (approximately 10-15 minutes). Quick method (microwave): Transfer frozen soup to microwave-safe bowl. Heat on 50% power for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through. Immersion blender: For creamier texture, use immersion blender on thawed soup for 30 seconds.
Is this recipe good for meal prep? Can I make it in bulk?
Perfect for meal prep! This recipe makes 8 servings and freezes beautifully for 3 months. Double the batch and freeze half. Cost per serving: approximately $1.50. Time investment: 10 minutes active, 6-8 hours passive. Result: Nutritious, ready-to-reheat meals for weeks. This is the ultimate busy-person’s asset.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, but with caveats. Vegetable broth is milder and less flavorful than chicken or bone broth. You’ll lose savory depth. If using vegetable broth, increase herbs and seasonings by 50%. Or use a blend: 2 cups chicken broth + 2 cups vegetable broth for a compromise.
What size crock pot do I need?
Recommended: 6-quart crock pot. This recipe makes approximately 8-10 cups (2-2.5 quarts). A 6-quart pot leaves appropriate headspace for safe cooking. A smaller 4-quart pot would work but may overflow. Pro tip: Don’t fill crock pot more than 2/3 full for food safety.
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About the Authors
Oliver & Natalia Mayerhoffer
Co-Founders, Mangoes & Palm Trees Food & Travel Blog
Oliver and Natalia Mayerhoffer are the creators of Mangoes & Palm Trees, a family food and travel blog exploring authentic cuisine from 50+ countries. With combined expertise in hospitality, culinary consulting, and nutrition science, they transform traditional recipes into accessible, nutritious meals for modern families. Their mission: Make global cuisine approachable, nutritious, and exciting. Based in Southeast Asia with regular travels through the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and beyond, Oliver and Natalia bring real-world culinary experience to every recipe, ensuring authenticity, practicality, and delicious results.
Last Updated: November 22, 2025 | Nutrition Verified: ✅
Sources: USDA FoodData Central | MyFitnessPal Nutrition Database | Healthline & Medical Research
