Chicken Cabbage Soup

Chicken soup with cabbage is a nourishing and hearty dish for any season. Combining tender chicken, fresh vegetables and flavorful herbs, this soup is delicious and packed with nutrients. It’s easy-to-make recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. It’s ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner or to help you feel better during cold and flu season. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a homemade bowl of chicken soup that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients for Chicken Soup with Cabbage

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• Olive oil: Sauté the vegetables in olive oil, which enhances the flavor of the soup and adds a boost of nutrition too.
• Carrots, celery and onion: The classic combo provides natural sweetness, subtle aroma and a savory base that deepens the soup’s overall flavor.
• Garlic: Adds depth, flavor and complexity to the soup.
• Chicken broth: This savory liquid base brings all the ingredients together with a rich, comforting flavor.
• Red potatoes: The root vegetable adds heartiness and texture, making the soup more filling and nutritious. Unlike russet potatoes, this waxy variety won’t fall apart in the soup.
• Shredded cabbage: Contributes a slight crunch and a wealth of nutrients, making the soup healthy, filling and satisfying.
• Dried herbs: Thyme and parsley add complexity to the soup’s flavor. Using dried herbs instead of fresh herbs saves time.
• Shredded chicken: Chicken that is already cooked makes this recipe easy and packed with protein.  Protein is another element that makes this soup hearty and healthy.

Directions

Step 1: Saute the vegetables

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In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Cook the carrots, celery and onion until crisp and tender, for five to seven minutes. Add the garlic and cook for one minute longer, just until fragrant.

Step 2: Make the soup

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Stir in the broth, potatoes, cabbage, thyme, salt and pepper. Bring it to a boil, reduce the heat, cover with a lid and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the veggies are tender.

Step 3: Add the chicken

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Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the chicken and parsley and heat through.

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Chicken Soup with Cabbage Recipe Variations

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a kick.
• Make it vegan: Replace the  chicken and chicken broth with chickpeas and vegetable broth.
• Add cream: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture.

How to Store Chicken Soup with Cabbage

Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Store it in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Can you freeze chicken soup with cabbage?

Let the soup cool completely and pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Label the containers with the date and freeze them for up to three months.

How do you reheat chicken soup with cabbage?

Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave the soup in short intervals, stirring between intervals for even heating.

Chicken Soup with Cabbage Recipe Tips

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Can I use other types of cabbage?

Depending on your preference and what’s available at the store, you can use green cabbage, Savoy cabbage, or Napa cabbage. Avoid red cabbage, as it will turn your soup purple.

Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked chicken?

Yes. In step 2, add raw chicken breasts or thighs to the soup and cook until the chicken is done, for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, shred the chicken and return it to the soup.

Is it okay to use store-bought broth?

Store-bought broth is convenient and works well. For added flavor, you can simmer the broth with a few extra herbs or a splash of lemon juice before adding it to the soup.