Chicken and Cabbage Soup Crock Pot Recipe
Hearty Chicken and Cabbage Soup Crock Pot Recipe Ready in 6-8 Hours
Enjoy a comforting Chicken and Cabbage Soup, crafted by Oliver & Natalia with over 15 years of culinary expertise, perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep.
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Introduction to Chicken and Cabbage Soup
The Chicken and Cabbage Soup Crock Pot recipe is a wholesome, flavorful dish that combines succulent chicken, crisp cabbage, and a savory broth, all melded together in the slow cooker for maximum convenience and taste. Ideal for those seeking a low-effort, high-reward meal, this cabbage soup recipe is perfect for busy days or relaxing weekends. Its nutrient-dense ingredients and comforting texture make it a standout choice for family dinners or meal prep. Explore more comforting recipes in our Chicken Soups collection.
Chicken and Cabbage Soup Crock Pot Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 lb | Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs | Trimmed of excess fat |
| 1 medium | Green cabbage | Chopped into bite-sized pieces |
| 2 | Carrots | Peeled, sliced thinly |
| 2 | Celery stalks | Chopped |
| 1 | Onion | Diced finely |
| 3 cloves | Garlic | Minced |
| 6 cups | Chicken broth | Low-sodium, or vegetable broth for variation |
| 1 tsp | Salt | Adjust to taste |
| 1/2 tsp | Black pepper | Freshly ground |
| 1 tsp | Dried thyme | Or 2 sprigs fresh thyme |
| 1 tsp | Dried oregano | Or 1 tbsp fresh oregano |
| 1 | Bay leaf | Removed before serving |
Optional Add-ins
| Quantity | Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 cup | Potatoes | Cubed, for heartiness |
| 1 | Bell pepper | Diced, for color and flavor |
| 1/2 tsp | Red pepper flakes | For a spicy kick |
| 1/2 cup | Coconut milk | For a tropical twist |
| 2 tbsp | Fresh parsley | Chopped, for garnish |
Instructions
- Prep Vegetables: Wash and chop 1 medium green cabbage into bite-sized pieces, peel and thinly slice 2 carrots, chop 2 celery stalks, dice 1 onion finely, and mince 3 garlic cloves. Set aside for layering.
- Season Chicken: Rinse 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and season with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp dried thyme, and 1 tsp dried oregano to enhance flavor.
- Layer Ingredients: In a 6-quart Crock Pot, layer the chopped cabbage at the bottom, followed by sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced onion, and minced garlic. Place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth over the ingredients, ensuring they are mostly submerged. Add 1 bay leaf and optional 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or 1 cup cubed potatoes for added flavor or heartiness.
- Cook: Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the vegetables are tender.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken from the Crock Pot, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir in 1/2 cup coconut milk (if using) for a creamy, tropical twist.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed. Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and serve hot in deep bowls.
Preparation Steps
Cutting Vegetables
Ensure even cooking by washing all vegetables thoroughly. Chop 1 medium green cabbage into bite-sized pieces for a tender yet slightly crisp texture. Thinly slice 2 carrots and 2 celery stalks to promote uniform cooking, and finely dice 1 onion and mince 3 garlic cloves for a balanced flavor distribution.
Seasoning Chicken
Rinse 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs under cold water, pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, and rub with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp dried thyme, and 1 tsp dried oregano. This seasoning step infuses the chicken with savory, herbaceous notes before slow cooking.
Cooking Instructions
Layering Ingredients
Layer ingredients strategically in a 6-quart Crock Pot to ensure even cooking. Place the chopped cabbage at the bottom as a hearty base, followed by sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced onion, and minced garlic for aromatic depth. Position the seasoned chicken on top to allow its juices to meld with the vegetables. Pour 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth over the ingredients, ensuring they are mostly covered, and add 1 bay leaf for subtle flavor.
Setting the Crock Pot
Set the Crock Pot to low for 6-8 hours for tender, melded flavors or high for 3-4 hours for a faster preparation. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent heat and ensure thorough cooking. Check the chicken’s internal temperature (165°F/75°C) to confirm doneness.
Cooking Time
High Setting
Cook on the high setting for 3-4 hours for a quick, flavorful crock pot chicken soup. Stir gently halfway through if possible to ensure even cooking, and check the chicken for tenderness and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Low Setting
Cook on the low setting for 6-8 hours to allow the flavors to fully meld, resulting in exceptionally tender chicken and vegetables. Stir every 2-3 hours if convenient to distribute flavors evenly, ensuring a rich, cohesive broth.
Serving Suggestions
Garnishing
Elevate the presentation and flavor of this cabbage soup recipe with garnishes like 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for freshness, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for umami, homemade croutons for crunch, or a pinch of lemon zest for a bright, citrusy note.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty soup with complementary sides for a complete meal:
- Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for dipping into the savory broth.
- Green Salad: Serve with a fresh Crispy Chicken Salad for a light, crisp contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots or parsnips add earthy sweetness.
- Mashed Potatoes: A creamy side enhances the soup’s comforting appeal.
For more pairing ideas, explore our Recipes collection.
Health Benefits
Nutritional Value
This healthy slow cooker soup is packed with nutrition. Chicken provides lean protein and B vitamins (like B6) for energy and muscle repair, while cabbage offers vitamin C for immune support and vitamin K for bone health. Carrots and celery add fiber and antioxidants, promoting digestion and overall wellness. Learn more about cabbage’s benefits at Healthline.
Low-Calorie Benefits
Low in calories and high in fiber from cabbage and vegetables, this soup promotes satiety, making it an excellent choice for weight management or a balanced diet. Each serving (approximately 1.5 cups) contains about 150-200 calories, depending on add-ins, offering a filling yet light meal option.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
Replace chicken with 1 lb firm tofu or 2 cups cooked white beans (e.g., cannellini) and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a hearty, plant-based version that retains the soup’s comforting essence.
Spicy Variation
For a fiery twist, increase red pepper flakes to 1 tsp or add 1 diced jalapeño during cooking. Incorporate 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper for smoky heat, balancing with a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Additional Add-ins
Enhance the soup with 1 cup cubed potatoes for heartiness, 1 diced bell pepper for color, or 1/2 cup cooked rice or quinoa for added texture. These additions make the soup more filling while maintaining its nutritional profile.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration
Allow the soup to cool to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking, then transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below. Store for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
Cool the soup completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1 inch of headspace for expansion, and label with the date. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to preserve texture, adding fresh parsley upon serving.
Conclusion
The Chicken and Cabbage Soup Crock Pot recipe is a simple, flavorful, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for family dinners, cozy nights, or meal prep. With minimal effort, your slow cooker transforms fresh ingredients into a comforting tropical chicken soup, with an optional coconut milk twist for a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* flair. For more slow cooker inspiration, try our 15 Keto Crockpot Recipes or explore our tea pairings for a cozy meal. Happy cooking!
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