Sautéed Garlic Cabbage with Tender Chicken

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Quick, healthy, and full of flavor, this dish features tender chicken paired with sautéed garlic cabbage for a satisfying, light meal.

  • Servings: 2

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 15–20 minutes | Total Time: 20–25 minutes

  • Dietary Tags: Low-Carb • High-Protein • Gluten-Free

✅ Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 small head of cabbage, shredded

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside.

  2. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. Cook Cabbage: Add shredded cabbage, stirring to combine. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage softens and becomes tender.

  4. Add Soy Sauce: Stir in soy sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

  5. Serve: Slice the chicken and serve over the sautéed cabbage. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

💡 Notes

  • For extra flavor, try adding a dash of chili flakes for some heat.

  • Use coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

  • Feel free to add other veggies, such as carrots or bell peppers, for extra crunch and color.

II. Brief Introduction

Sautéed Garlic Cabbage with Tender Chicken is a simple yet flavorful meal that brings together crispy, seasoned chicken with tender cabbage in a savory, garlicky sauté. It’s a one-pan wonder that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or light lunches. The smoked paprika adds a smoky depth, while the soy sauce gives the dish an umami kick.

III. Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Cook the Chicken

  • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 6–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked.

  • Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.

2. Sauté the Garlic

  • In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir frequently to prevent burning.

3. Cook the Cabbage

  • Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and stir well to coat in the garlic and oil.

  • Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and reduces in size.

4. Add the Soy Sauce

  • Stir in the soy sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Taste and tweak as needed.

5. Serve

  • Slice the chicken into strips and serve it on top of the sautéed cabbage. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

IV. Ingredient Details & Substitutions

Why These Ingredients Work

  • Chicken breasts: Lean, protein-packed, and quick to cook.

  • Garlic: Adds aromatic depth to the cabbage and infuses the dish with savory goodness.

  • Cabbage: Softens beautifully when sautéed, providing a healthy base with plenty of texture.

  • Soy sauce: Brings the right amount of salty umami to balance the richness of the chicken.

Substitution Tips

  • Soy sauce: Swap for coconut aminos (for a soy-free alternative) or tamari (for gluten-free).

  • Smoked paprika: Regular paprika works well, but smoked adds a nice, deep flavor.

  • Cabbage: Kale, Brussels sprouts, or even spinach could be good substitutes if you’re craving a different green.

V. Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Extra Protein: Add a boiled egg on top for a protein-packed meal.

  • Add more Veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for a colorful, veggie-loaded dish.

  • Asian Twist: Add a teaspoon of grated ginger or a splash of rice vinegar for an extra layer of flavor.

Perfect Pairings:

  • Serve with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a more filling meal.

  • Pair with a chilled glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, for a balanced meal.

VI. Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.

  • Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little water or broth to rehydrate the cabbage if needed.

  • Freezing: The cabbage may lose some texture, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

VII. Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: ~350 kcal

  • Protein: ~35g | Carbs: ~15g | Fat: ~18g

  • Fiber: ~4g | Sodium: ~600mg

  • Tags: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free (verify soy sauce), High-Protein

VIII. FAQs

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, but it will take longer to cook. You can use bone-in chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks. Just be sure to adjust cooking time.

Q: Can I make this recipe with other greens instead of cabbage?
A: Yes! Kale or Swiss chard would work beautifully in this recipe, though they may need a slightly shorter cooking time.

Q: Can I meal prep this dish?
A: Absolutely! This dish keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated the next day. It’s great for meal prepping lunches.

IX. Author’s Note

I’ve made this dish countless times, especially when I want something flavorful and quick but still healthy. The simplicity of garlic, soy sauce, and cabbage perfectly complements the juicy chicken, making it a balanced meal that never disappoints.

X. Call-to-Action

Tried this Sautéed Garlic Cabbage with Tender Chicken? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Snap a pic and tag @KristyCookRecipes to share your creation. If you made any changes or added your own twist, let me know in the comments—I’m always looking for new ideas!

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