If you’re searching for a low-carb dinner that is filling, nourishing, and family-friendly, this Cabbage and Chicken Skillet deserves a spot in your weekly meal plan. It combines tender chicken with caramelized cabbage, layered flavors of garlic and spices, and just the right touch of umami for a wholesome dish that tastes like comfort food without the carb overload.
This is not your typical bland cabbage recipe — it’s hearty, customizable, budget-friendly, and ready in under an hour. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, managing blood sugar, or simply craving a lighter meal, this dish checks all the boxes.
Why This Recipe Works
✨ Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich cabbage while keeping net carbs low.
✨ One-Pan Convenience – Easy cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet.
✨ Budget Smart – Cabbage and chicken are affordable staples that stretch into a full family meal.
✨ Customizable Flavor – Works with Asian-inspired, Mediterranean, or even creamy twists.
✨ Meal-Prep Friendly – Stores beautifully for busy weeknights or packed lunches.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For 4 servings:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 1 medium head green cabbage (shredded or thinly sliced)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp coconut aminos or soy sauce
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (balances flavors)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
Optional Garnish: sliced green onions, red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, or fresh parsley.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Chicken – Toss chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Brown the Chicken – Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet, cook chicken until golden (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics – In the same skillet, add remaining oil, onion, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add the Cabbage – Stir in shredded cabbage, letting it soften and caramelize (about 8 minutes).
- Deglaze & Simmer – Pour in broth, coconut aminos, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well, scraping browned bits.
- Finish with Chicken – Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and let simmer on low for 10–12 minutes until cabbage is tender and flavors meld.
- Garnish & Serve – Top with parsley, sesame seeds, or red pepper flakes before serving.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving, 4 servings)
- Calories: ~340
- Protein: 37g
- Fat: 17g
- Net Carbs: 8g
- Fiber: 4g
- Vitamin C: 60% DV
- Vitamin K: 70% DV
(Values are estimates; adjust with your specific ingredients.)
Variations & Flavor Twists
🌶 Spicy Kick – Add chili flakes or sriracha.
🥥 Creamy Coconut – Stir in ¼ cup coconut milk at the end.
🍋 Mediterranean Style – Use oregano, lemon juice, and olives.
🍄 Vegetarian Swap – Replace chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh.
Serving Suggestions
- Over cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly “rice bowl” feel.
- Paired with a fresh side salad for crunch and balance.
- Wrapped inside lettuce cups for a handheld low-carb option.
- With a side of keto bread or almond flour rolls to soak up the juices.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Safe to freeze for 2–3 months (texture of cabbage will soften).
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Expert Tips for Success
🔑 Don’t overcrowd the chicken – Brown in batches for the best flavor.
🔑 Balance textures – Add half the cabbage early for softness, and half later for crunch.
🔑 Taste before serving – Adjust soy/coconut aminos or vinegar for perfect flavor balance.
FAQs
Q: Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, but it will slightly change the flavor and color of the dish.
Q: Is this recipe diabetic-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in net carbs and high in fiber, making it suitable for blood sugar control.
Q: What cut of chicken works best?
Chicken thighs are juicier, but breasts work well if you prefer leaner protein.
Final Thoughts
This Low-Carb Cabbage and Chicken Skillet is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: nutritious, affordable, satisfying, and easy to prepare. It’s the kind of recipe that proves eating low-carb doesn’t have to be boring — just wholesome ingredients cooked the right way.
So the next time you need a quick, keto-friendly dinner that the whole family will enjoy, this one-pan wonder is your answer.