One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Cabbage Skillet

Craving a dinner that’s both comforting and quick? My One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Cabbage Skillet delivers incredible flavor and wholesome goodness with minimal fuss, making it your new weeknight hero! This dish brings together tender chicken, crisp-tender cabbage, and a rich, savory cream sauce, all in one pan for easy cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Cabbage Skillet

This one-pan creamy chicken and cabbage skillet isn’t just a recipe; it’s a revelation for busy home cooks. Here’s why it will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Ready in 30 Minutes: From start to finish, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal on the table in half an hour.
• Effortless Cleanup: Cooking everything in a single skillet means less washing up and more time enjoying your evening.
• Low Carb & High Protein: This dish is packed with protein and naturally low in carbohydrates, perfect for a balanced diet.
• Bursting with Flavor: Seasoned chicken, sweet sautéed onions, tender cabbage, and a luscious creamy sauce create a symphony of tastes.
• Incredibly Satisfying: The rich texture and savory notes make this a truly comforting and filling meal.
• Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Cabbage and chicken are economical staples, making this recipe kind to your wallet.
• Versatile & Adaptable: Easily customize it with your favorite herbs or a touch of spice.

Ingredients Needed for Your Creamy Chicken Skillet

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to a fantastic meal. Choosing fresh, quality produce will make all the difference in this creamy chicken and cabbage skillet:

• Chicken Thighs: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. Thighs stay wonderfully juicy in the creamy sauce, but chicken breasts also work.
• Cabbage: 1/2 head (approx. 450g) green cabbage, chopped. Look for a firm, dense head of cabbage.
• Onion: 1 medium onion, sliced. A yellow or white onion will provide the perfect sweetness.
• Olive Oil: 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely base flavor.
• Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh garlic makes all the difference!
• Paprika: 1 tsp (5g) paprika. Smoked paprika can add an extra layer of depth if you prefer.
• Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth. Choose a low-sodium option to control the saltiness.
• Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream. This is the secret to that irresistible rich and creamy sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Adjust according to your preference.
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tbsp (10g) fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish. It adds a pop of color and freshness.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Hearty and Comforting Cabbage Soup – Warm up with a bowl of this wholesome, savory soup, perfect for a chilly evening.

Essential Equipment for This Skillet Meal

This is a “one-pan” meal for a reason! Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy chicken skillet:

• Large Skillet: A large, heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron or stainless steel) is crucial for even cooking and building those flavorful browned bits.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for prepping your chicken and vegetables quickly and safely.
• Spatula or Tongs: For browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables without sticking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient ratios for the perfect sauce.

One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Cabbage Skillet Overview

Here’s a quick glance at what to expect for this simple yet satisfying meal:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Difficulty: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Creamy Chicken and Cabbage Skillet

Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create a wonderfully flavorful and satisfying meal that will become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.

1. Step 1: Brown the Chicken

   1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   2. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. You want a beautiful, even coating.
   3. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook until beautifully browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. The golden crust adds so much flavor!
   4. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Don’t worry if it’s not cooked through; it will finish cooking later.

2. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Cabbage

   1. In the same skillet, without cleaning it (those browned bits are flavor!), add the sliced onion and chopped cabbage.
   2. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and the cabbage begins to wilt and turn tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. If you prefer a little more crunch, don’t overcook the cabbage here.
   3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute more, until wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

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   1. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan with your spatula. This is called deglazing, and it adds incredible depth to your sauce.
   2. Stir in the heavy cream until well combined and the liquid is gently simmering.
   3. Return the browned chicken pieces to the pan, nestling them into the creamy sauce and vegetables.
   4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

4. Step 4: Garnish and Serve

   1. Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
   2. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley just before serving. The fresh herbs brighten up the rich dish beautifully.
   3. Serve hot and enjoy!

CHECK OUT: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casserole – Indulge in another comforting, cheesy chicken dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.

Tips for Success with Your Creamy Chicken and Cabbage

Elevate your creamy chicken and cabbage to restaurant-worthy status with these expert tips:

• Don’t Crowd the Pan: When browning the chicken, cook it in batches if necessary to ensure it gets a beautiful sear instead of steaming.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your food throughout the cooking process. Add more salt, pepper, or paprika as needed to achieve your desired flavor profile.
• Monitor Cabbage Texture: If you love a crispier bite, reduce the sautéing time for the cabbage in Step 3. For softer cabbage, let it cook a little longer.
• Deglaze Thoroughly: The browned bits at the bottom of the pan (fond) are packed with flavor. Ensure you scrape them all up when adding the broth to maximize the depth of your sauce.
• Prevent Curdling: If your cream sauce looks like it might separate, remove the pan from the heat immediately and stir vigorously. Add a splash more broth or cream if needed to smooth it out.

Variations & Substitutions for This Skillet Recipe

Feel free to customize this versatile chicken and cabbage recipe to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences:

• Dairy-Free Option: Use full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative for a rich, creamy sauce. Ensure your chicken broth is also dairy-free.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle kick, or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a handful of spinach towards the end of cooking.
• Herbal Boost: Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill or thyme instead of or in addition to parsley.
• Cheese Please: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese stirred into the sauce at the end adds extra savoriness.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken and Cabbage

This hearty creamy chicken skillet is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with simple sides:

• Cauliflower Rice: For an extra low-carb meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy cauliflower rice.
• Crusty Bread: A thick slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that incredible creamy sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: A light, fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: Roasted carrots or parsnips can add a touch of sweetness and earthy flavor.
• Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Pair with sparkling water infused with lemon and mint, or a crisp unsweetened iced tea.

Health Benefits of Chicken and Cabbage

This one-pan creamy chicken and cabbage skillet isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutritional goodness:

• High Protein: Chicken thighs provide a significant amount of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety.
• Rich in Fiber: Cabbage is an excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping you feel full.
• Vitamin Powerhouse: Cabbage is loaded with vitamins C and K, while chicken offers B vitamins.
• Low Carb: This recipe naturally supports a low-carb lifestyle, helping with blood sugar management.
• Antioxidants: Both chicken and cabbage contain antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body.

Storage & Reheating Your Skillet Creation

Enjoy your creamy chicken and cabbage skillet as leftovers with these easy tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of extra chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much during storage. You can also microwave individual portions until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Skillet Recipe

Curious about how to get the best out of your creamy chicken and cabbage skillet? Here are some common questions we get!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, absolutely! Chicken breasts will work well, though they tend to be a bit leaner and may dry out more easily. Cut them into similar bite-sized pieces and be careful not to overcook them for the juiciest results.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If your sauce isn’t thickening enough, you can simmer it for a few extra minutes uncovered, allowing more liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water, then whisk this slurry into the simmering sauce and cook for another minute until thickened.

What kind of cabbage is best?

Green cabbage is ideal for this recipe. Its mild flavor and hearty texture hold up well in the creamy sauce. Other varieties like savoy cabbage could also be used, but red cabbage might bleed color into the sauce.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

For an even richer flavor, stir in about 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese or a mild cheddar cheese into the sauce just before returning the chicken to the pan. It melts beautifully and adds extra savory goodness.

Is this recipe spicy?

As written, this recipe is not spicy. The paprika adds flavor, not heat. If you enjoy a kick, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you add the chicken broth.

More Delicious Dishes

If you loved this effortless and flavorful one-pan meal, you’ll surely enjoy these other comforting and easy recipes:

• Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry – A quick and vibrant stir-fry that brings together tender chicken and crisp cabbage with an Asian twist.
• Easy Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice – Another creamy chicken delight, perfect for a cozy family dinner with minimal fuss.
• Low Carb Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole Recipe – Enjoy all the comforting flavors of cabbage rolls in an easy, deconstructed, low-carb casserole form.

Conclusion

There you have it: a truly delicious One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Cabbage Skillet that proves healthy, flavorful meals don’t have to be complicated. This recipe is a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Enjoy every creamy, savory bite! Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest for more culinary inspiration.

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