Warm, flavorful, and packed with hearty ingredients, this Baked Cabbage with Chicken and Vegetables recipe brings together rustic comfort and nourishing goodness in one easy-to-make dish. Rooted in traditional family meals but flexible enough to be tailored to your pantry, this casserole-style bake is a cozy celebration of everyday ingredients like cabbage, rice, chicken breast, and garden vegetables.
Whether you’re looking for a new way to cook cabbage or want a wholesome, one-pan meal the whole family can enjoy, this dish is a guaranteed winner. Simple, satisfying, and loaded with nostalgic flavor, it turns humble vegetables into something truly magical.
Cooking Time
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Preparation Time: 20 minutes
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Cooking Time: 25 minutes
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Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
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1 medium cabbage
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1 cup cooked rice
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1 chicken breast, cooked and shredded
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1 onion, chopped
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1 carrot, grated
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1 bell pepper, diced
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1–2 tomatoes, chopped
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2 tablespoons melted butter
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1–2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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A handful of chopped parsley
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Boil the cabbage whole or in large leaves for 5 to 15 minutes, depending on its variety. Softer varieties need less time, while firmer ones may take longer to become pliable. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
While the cabbage is boiling, cook the rice until fluffy. This will serve as the starchy base of the bake and help absorb the vegetable juices.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion in a little oil until translucent. Add grated carrot, diced bell pepper, and chopped tomatoes. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until soft.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Spices
Stir in the shredded chicken breast, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all flavors.
Step 5: Combine with Rice
Add the cooked rice to the pan and mix thoroughly. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Stir in fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
In a greased baking dish, layer the softened cabbage on the bottom. Add a generous layer of the chicken-rice mixture. Continue layering or simply top with another layer of cabbage, like a casserole.
Step 7: Add Garlic and Butter
Drizzle melted butter and minced garlic over the top of the dish. This will help create a golden, fragrant finish.
Step 8: Bake
Place the dish in a preheated oven at 180 °C (356 °F) and bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the dish is heated through.
Step 9: Serve
Let rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
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Calories: 280–320
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Protein: 18–20 g
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Carbohydrates: 25–30 g
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Fat: 10–12 g
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Fiber: 4 g
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Vitamin C: 60% DV
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Iron: 10% DV
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This type of baked cabbage dish has roots in Eastern European and Mediterranean cuisines, where cabbage and rice often form the heart of frugal but delicious meals. The dish takes cues from stuffed cabbage rolls but simplifies the process by layering everything in a casserole dish. It’s grown in popularity online for its one-pan ease, versatility, and nostalgic charm—especially among those who remember similar meals from childhood.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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One-dish wonder: All the nutrients and flavors you need in a single bake
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Customizable: Use beef, turkey, or plant-based proteins if preferred
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Meal prep friendly: Make ahead and store for weekday meals
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Comforting and nostalgic: Tastes like home
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Budget-friendly: Uses basic ingredients you probably already have
Health Benefits
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Cabbage is low in calories but rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
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Chicken breast provides lean protein for muscle repair
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Carrots, peppers, and tomatoes offer a wide array of vitamins and anti-inflammatory benefits
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Garlic is known for its immune-boosting and antimicrobial properties
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Parsley supports digestion and adds freshness
Serving Suggestions
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Serve warm as a main course with a slice of crusty bread
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Pair with a side of plain yogurt or tzatziki for contrast
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Accompany with a light cucumber or green salad for crunch
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Ideal for lunchboxes or make-ahead dinners
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Add a sprinkle of grated cheese on top before baking for an extra indulgent twist
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overcooking the cabbage: It should be soft, not mushy
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Using uncooked rice: Always pre-cook the rice to prevent a watery dish
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Not seasoning enough: Cabbage needs a good amount of salt and spice
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Too much liquid: Drain tomatoes well or cook off excess moisture before assembling
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Skipping the butter: It enhances the flavor and helps form a golden crust
Pairing Recommendations
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Drinks: Light white wine, kefir, or mint lemonade
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Side dishes: Pickled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a beet salad
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Sauces: A drizzle of sour cream or garlic aioli
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Desserts: Finish with a baked apple or warm semolina pudding
Cooking Tips
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Use savoy or napa cabbage for faster boiling and more delicate flavor
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Add a pinch of cumin or coriander for a spiced variation
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Mix in shredded cheese for a richer flavor
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Use rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time
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Bake uncovered to achieve a golden top, or cover for a softer texture
Similar Recipes to Try
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Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
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Cabbage and Beef Skillet Casserole
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Baked Zucchini and Rice Gratin
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Chicken and Rice Stuffed Peppers
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Mediterranean Cabbage Stir-Fry
Variations to Try
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Vegetarian: Use lentils or mushrooms instead of chicken
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Spicy: Add chili flakes or use spicy paprika
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Creamy: Mix in a spoonful of cream cheese or béchamel
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Cheesy: Top with grated mozzarella or parmesan before baking
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Low-carb: Swap rice with cauliflower rice
Ingredient Spotlight: Cabbage
Cabbage is an incredibly underrated vegetable. Low in calories and high in nutrients, it’s rich in vitamin C, K, and antioxidants. It becomes sweet and tender when cooked and absorbs the flavors of surrounding ingredients beautifully. From soups to stir-fries and now this baked dish, cabbage proves its versatility once again in this comforting recipe.
Conclusion
This Baked Cabbage with Chicken and Vegetables is more than just a recipe—it’s a dish that brings people together. It’s perfect for family dinners, easy to adapt to your preferences, and full of rich, nostalgic flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or sharing comfort food with friends, this cabbage bake will make your kitchen smell like home and your table feel like a warm welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the chicken with mushrooms, lentils, or tofu for a hearty meat-free version.
2. Do I need to cook the rice in advance?
Yes, always use cooked rice to ensure the dish isn’t soggy.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
4. What kind of cabbage is best?
Savoy, white, or napa cabbage all work well. Softer varieties cook faster.
5. Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, just make sure it’s cooked and slightly cooled before mixing in.
6. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie or leftover chicken works perfectly and saves time.
7. How do I prevent the dish from becoming watery?
Drain the tomatoes and don’t overcook the veggies. Use enough rice to absorb moisture.
8. Is it gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients (especially spices and butter) are certified gluten-free.
9. Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Definitely. Assemble it in the morning, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
10. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a microwave or oven until warm throughout. Add a splash of broth if it looks dry.