Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This simple chicken and cabbage recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a burst of fresh flavors that the whole family will love. This recipe is easily adaptable, making it perfect for those exploring easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Brown the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned on all sides.
-
Add the cabbage and spices: Add the sliced cabbage, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
-
Simmer until tender: Pour in the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cabbage is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
-
Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with a side of crusty bread or rice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a lot of chicken, cook it in batches to ensure it browns properly and doesn't steam.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.
- Add other vegetables: This recipe is highly adaptable! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make it creamy: For a richer dish, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end of cooking.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Cabbage: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a brighter, more aromatic dish.
- Spicy Chicken and Cabbage: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Chicken and Cabbage Stir-fry: For a quicker cooking time, use very thinly sliced cabbage and chicken, and stir-fry the ingredients over high heat instead of simmering.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This simple chicken and cabbage recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. It’s a budget-friendly, healthy, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy!