When the weather turns chilly or you need a comforting meal that’s both hearty and nutritious, this Chicken Cabbage Soup is the perfect choice. Loaded with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory broth, this soup is a complete meal in a bowl. The combination of cabbage, carrots, celery, and potatoes not only makes it filling but also packed with vitamins and minerals. This soup is easy to prepare and is perfect for meal prepping, ensuring you have a warm, wholesome meal ready whenever you need it.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, cut into rounds or half-moons
- 2 celery ribs, sliced or diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus extra to taste, if needed)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound green cabbage, core removed and chopped into bite-sized pieces (about half a medium cabbage)
- 1 pound cooked chicken, boneless, skinless, shredded or chopped
- 1 pound small red potatoes, washed and cut into halves or quarters
Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables:
Pour olive oil into a large pot and warm it over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. - Add Seasonings and Broth:
Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the sautéed vegetables. Stir to combine and cook for another minute to let the spices bloom. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer. - Add Potatoes and Cabbage:
Once the broth is simmering, add the chopped cabbage and the halved or quartered red potatoes to the pot. Stir to ensure the vegetables are submerged in the broth. Place a lid on the pot and allow the soup to gently simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and the cabbage has become tender. - Incorporate the Chicken:
Add the shredded or chopped cooked chicken to the pot. Stir to combine and allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the flavors have melded together. - Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can simmer the soup a bit longer to concentrate the broth. - Serve:
Ladle the Chicken Cabbage Soup into bowls and serve hot. This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete, comforting meal.
Conclusion:
This Hearty Chicken Cabbage Soup is a wonderful way to enjoy a balanced and nourishing meal that’s full of flavor and warmth. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory broth makes it a perfect dish for any occasion, from a simple family dinner to meal prepping for the week. Easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the comforting and satisfying taste of home in every spoonful!