Healthy and Delicious Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe for Weight Loss

Chicken cabbage soup is a timeless comfort food that not only warms you up on a chilly day but also offers a healthy, low-calorie meal option. Packed with lean chicken and fiber-rich cabbage, this soup is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re on a weight-loss journey or simply craving a nourishing dish, chicken cabbage soup is an easy recipe to whip up and enjoy. In this article, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of this dish, walk you through a simple recipe, and give you tips on how to store and reheat it. Plus, we’ll look at some variations you can try to keep things fresh!

What is Chicken Cabbage Soup?

Chicken cabbage soup is a hearty, nutritious dish made with a blend of tender chicken, crispy cabbage, and flavorful broth. It’s a low-calorie chicken soup that offers both protein and fiber in every bowl. But, beyond being simply delicious, this soup has gained popularity because it is easy to make and highly customizable.

If you’re a fan of classic comfort foods, you might also enjoy our old-fashioned vegetable beef soup for its rich flavors and versatility.

To learn about the role of fiber in gut health, refer to Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health’s article on fiber.

Why Should You Make This Soup?

There are plenty of reasons why chicken cabbage soup is such a great meal choice. First and foremost, it’s an incredibly healthy option. With the lean protein from chicken and the fiber-packed cabbage, you’re setting yourself up for a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down. Plus, this low-calorie chicken soup makes for a perfect choice when you’re watching your weight.

But that’s not all! It’s also easy to make, and you can tweak it to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking to spice things up or prefer a more subtle flavor, chicken cabbage soup is incredibly versatile. What’s better? It’s a nutritious chicken cabbage stew that can easily fit into various diets—whether you’re following low-carb, paleo, or even a gluten-free lifestyle.

look at our gluten-free chicken noodle soup guide.

Health Benefits of Chicken Cabbage Soup

Chicken cabbage soup isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with health benefits that make it a perfect addition to your diet. This humble soup combines two powerhouse ingredients: chicken and cabbage, both of which contribute to its nutritional profile.

For another protein-packed recipe idea, check out our protein cookie recipe to balance your healthy eating plan.

Key Nutrients in Chicken Cabbage Soup

One of the primary reasons people turn to chicken cabbage soup is for its nutritional value. The lean protein from chicken helps build and repair tissues, while also being low in fat. As for the cabbage, it’s a great source of fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer.

Cabbage is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C, which supports immune health, and Vitamin K, which is vital for proper blood clotting. Together, these ingredients make for a nutritious chicken cabbage stew that supports your overall health while keeping things light and fresh.

Why It’s Ideal for Weight Loss

If you’re looking for a low-calorie chicken soup that helps with weight loss, chicken cabbage soup should be at the top of your list. It’s incredibly filling thanks to the fiber from cabbage and the protein from chicken, meaning you won’t feel hungry shortly after eating. The combination of these ingredients provides just the right balance of nutrients to help you feel satisfied without overindulging in excess calories.

Plus, cabbage is a known weight-loss food because it’s low in calories and high in fiber, making it an ideal ingredient for anyone trying to shed a few pounds. With chicken cabbage soup, you get the best of both worlds—delicious flavor and weight-loss-friendly benefits.

Supports Digestive Health

The fiber-rich cabbage in this soup is fantastic for promoting digestive health. Fiber helps to regulate bowel movements and keep your digestive system running smoothly. It also supports gut health by feeding the good bacteria in your digestive tract, ensuring you’re absorbing nutrients effectively.

Additionally, the chicken in this soup offers a good amount of protein, which supports the repair of muscles and tissues, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. This balance of fiber and protein makes chicken cabbage soup an ideal dish for those looking to support both their digestive and muscle health.

Boosts Immunity

Chicken cabbage soup is an immune-boosting powerhouse. The Vitamin C in cabbage strengthens your immune system, while the protein in chicken helps your body produce antibodies to fight off infections. When you make this healthy chicken soup with cabbage, you’re giving your body the nutrients it needs to stay strong and healthy.

So, if you’re feeling run down or looking to avoid catching the flu this season, a warm bowl of chicken cabbage soup might just be the boost you need!

How to Make Chicken Cabbage Soup

Now that you know all about the health benefits, it’s time to dive into how to make this nutritious chicken cabbage stew right in your kitchen. The best part? It’s super easy to prepare and doesn’t take much time at all. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, you can whip up a delicious chicken cabbage soup in no time.

Ingredients for Chicken Cabbage Soup

Before you start cooking, you’ll need to gather all the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for a simple chicken cabbage soup recipe:

• Chicken breast or thighs – Choose boneless, skinless chicken for a leaner option.
• Cabbage – A medium head of green cabbage, chopped.
• Carrots – Sliced thin for a bit of natural sweetness.
• Celery – Chopped for crunch and flavor.
• Onion – A medium onion, diced.
• Garlic – Minced for added depth of flavor.
• Broth – Chicken or vegetable broth, depending on your preference.
• Herbs and spices – Salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaves, and optional chili flakes for a bit of heat.
• Olive oil – For sautéing the chicken and vegetables.

If you want to add a little more flavor or nutrition, you can throw in additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You could also use bone broth for a richer, more savory taste, which is perfect if you’re looking for a nutrient-dense version of this dish.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Preparation

Start by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the cabbage into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Slice the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic. Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks to ensure even cooking.

2. Cooking Instructions

Now that everything’s prepped, let’s start cooking!

• Sauté the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook them until browned and fully cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
• Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if necessary. Toss in the diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes or until they’re softened and fragrant.
• Add the Broth: Once your vegetables are softened, add the chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
• Add Cabbage and Chicken: Add the chopped cabbage and cooked chicken back into the pot. Stir well and let everything simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage has softened and the flavors have melded together.

3. Serving Suggestions

Once your chicken cabbage soup is done, it’s time to serve! You can serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping, or over a bowl of rice if you prefer a heartier meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to add a burst of color and freshness.

Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Cabbage Soup

• Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste. If you like a bit of heat, add some chili flakes or fresh jalapeños to the mix.
• Make it creamy: If you prefer a creamier soup, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
• Use leftovers: This recipe works great with leftover chicken, making it a perfect meal for using up extra ingredients in your fridge.

Variations of Chicken Cabbage Soup

While the basic chicken cabbage soup recipe is simple and delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to switch things up and make it your own. Whether you’re looking for different flavors, textures, or nutritional benefits, these variations will keep your meals exciting and new.

Chicken Cabbage Soup with Different Broths

One of the easiest ways to give your chicken cabbage soup a new twist is by changing the broth. Traditional chicken broth is a great option, but you can make your soup even more flavorful by opting for:

• Bone Broth: If you want to add more depth and richness to the flavor, try using bone broth. Bone broth is packed with collagen, amino acids, and minerals, making it a nutritious chicken cabbage stew that’s both hearty and healing. It’s perfect if you’re looking to support joint health or boost your immune system.
• Vegetable Broth: For a vegetarian-friendly option, you can easily swap in vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This will still give you the savory taste without the meat, and you can add extra herbs and spices to make it as flavorful as you like.

Spicy Chicken Cabbage Soup

If you’re a fan of spice, you can turn your healthy chicken cabbage soup into a spicy delight. Adding chili peppers or hot sauce will give the soup a kick and a deeper layer of flavor. Here are a few ways to spice it up:

• Fresh Chili Peppers: Add fresh chili peppers like jalapeños, serranos, or even habaneros for an extra dose of heat.
• Hot Sauce: A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce will instantly change the flavor profile of your soup without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Cayenne Pepper: Sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the broth while cooking. It’s a great way to add both heat and a slightly smoky flavor.

Chicken Cabbage Soup with Different Vegetables

Another great way to customize your low-calorie chicken soup is by adding different vegetables. Cabbage is a great base, but feel free to experiment with other veggies for added texture and flavor:

• Carrots: Add more carrots for natural sweetness and a pop of color.
• Zucchini: Zucchini adds a mild flavor and soft texture that’s perfect for absorbing the soup’s seasonings.
• Bell Peppers: Adding bell peppers will provide a slightly sweet and crunchy element to your soup.
• Spinach: For an extra dose of greens, toss in a handful of spinach at the end of cooking. It wilts quickly and boosts the nutrient content of your soup.

You can also add other leafy greens like kale or collard greens for a more robust flavor and added health benefits. The possibilities are endless when it comes to making your chicken cabbage soup even more delicious!

Storing and Reheating Chicken Cabbage Soup

Once you’ve made a big pot of chicken cabbage soup, you’ll likely have leftovers, and that’s a great thing! This soup stores well and can be easily reheated, making it perfect for meal prepping or for those days when you don’t feel like cooking. Let’s take a look at the best ways to store and reheat your soup without losing its delicious flavor and texture.

How to Store Chicken Cabbage Soup

Proper storage is key to keeping your healthy chicken cabbage soup fresh. Here’s how to store it effectively:

• Refrigerating: Once your soup has cooled down to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Make sure to store the soup in individual portions if you want to easily grab a serving for lunch or dinner. This also helps with portion control if you’re trying to stick to a specific calorie count.
• Freezing: If you want to store your soup for a longer period, freezing it is a great option. Place the soup in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Be sure to leave some room for expansion as the soup freezes. You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge or reheat it directly from frozen.

How to Reheat Chicken Cabbage Soup

Reheating your chicken cabbage soup is easy, but there are a few tips to ensure it stays just as delicious as when it was freshly made.

• Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, the microwave is a quick and convenient way to reheat your soup. Transfer a serving to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat it on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. If the soup is frozen, heat it in intervals, stirring after each, until it’s heated through.
• Stovetop: For the best results, reheat your soup on the stovetop. Place it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much after storing, add a little extra broth or water to get it back to the desired consistency. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, and it will taste just like freshly made!
• Slow Cooker: If you’ve frozen the soup, a slow cooker is another great option for reheating. Simply place the frozen soup into the slow cooker and set it on low for about 4-6 hours. Stir occasionally, and it’ll gradually heat up to perfection.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your chicken cabbage soup all week long without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Chicken Cabbage Soup in a Healthy Diet

Chicken cabbage soup is not only delicious, but it’s also versatile enough to fit into various diet plans. Whether you’re aiming to lose weight, boost your nutrition, or simply eat healthier, this low-calorie chicken soup can easily become a staple in your meal planning. Let’s take a look at how you can incorporate this soup into different dietary styles and goals.

Incorporating Chicken Cabbage Soup into Your Meal Plan

If you’re looking to follow a low-carb or keto diet, chicken cabbage soup is a fantastic option. The cabbage serves as a great low-carb vegetable, while the chicken provides the necessary protein to keep you satisfied. You can even add some healthy fats, like olive oil or avocado, to up the fat content and make it more fitting for a keto meal.

For those on a weight loss journey, this soup is an excellent choice due to its high fiber content, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. The protein from the chicken also helps to maintain muscle mass while you shed unwanted pounds. The best part is that it’s incredibly filling, meaning you’re less likely to overeat.

If you follow a paleo diet, you’ll be happy to know that chicken cabbage soup fits the bill. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, with no refined sugars or processed ingredients. The healthy fats from olive oil, combined with the nutrient-rich cabbage and lean chicken, make this soup a nutritious chicken cabbage stew that aligns with paleo principles.

Is Chicken Cabbage Soup Suitable for Different Diets?

Absolutely! Here are a few ways chicken cabbage soup can fit into various dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: This soup is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or those on a gluten-free diet.
• Paleo-Friendly: Since it contains no dairy or processed grains, it’s perfect for anyone following a paleo lifestyle.
• Keto and Low-Carb: With minimal carbs from the cabbage and no starchy vegetables, this soup fits into both keto and low-carb diets.
• Vegetarian-Friendly (with modifications): If you’re vegetarian, you can easily substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein source, like tofu or tempeh, and still enjoy the same satisfying flavors.

Whether you’re looking to improve your health or just need a wholesome meal to keep you on track with your eating plan, chicken cabbage soup is an adaptable and nutritious dish that can support a variety of dietary goals.

Conclusion

Chicken cabbage soup is a nourishing, versatile dish that fits seamlessly into various diets and lifestyle choices. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, boost your immune system, or simply enjoy a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe checks all the boxes. With its combination of lean chicken, fiber-rich cabbage, and rich broth, it’s both healthy and filling. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it the perfect meal for busy days or meal prepping.

FAQs

Let’s clear up some frequently asked questions about chicken cabbage soup. These answers will help you get the most out of your soup, whether you’re serving it fresh or storing it for later.

What to Eat on the Side of Cabbage Soup?

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Rice: Steamed rice makes the meal more filling and balances the soup’s lighter texture.
• Salad: A fresh green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers bring extra flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese adds richness and creaminess, but is optional.

These sides will enhance the flavor of your soup and create a well-rounded meal.

How Long Will Cabbage Soup Keep in the Refrigerator?

Can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container once it has cooled to room temperature. This will help keep it fresh.

If you’re meal prepping, consider portioning the soup into individual servings for easy access.

Can I Eat Soup That Has Been in the Fridge for a Week?

It’s best to avoid eating soup that’s been in the fridge for over a week. Soup kept for a week may lose flavor and texture. More importantly, there’s a higher risk of bacterial growth.

If you’re not planning to eat it within 4 days, freeze the soup instead. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How Long Does Cooked Cabbage Soup Last in the Fridge?

Cooked cabbage soup lasts 3-4 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container. Always cool the soup before putting it in the fridge.

If you’re unsure whether it’s still good, check for any signs of spoilage like a sour smell or change in texture. When in doubt, throw it out.