Simple Instant Cabbage Chicken Soup

Simple Instant Cabbage Chicken Soup is a warm, nourishing dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant cabbage, and a medley of spices to create a delightful, hearty experience. This soup is perfect for weeknight meals or cozy family gatherings, making it a versatile option for any occasion. The combination of flavors results in a soothing broth that comforts the soul while providing essential nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a meal prep option for the week, this soup caters to everyone, including those who are health-conscious. The standout quality of Simple Instant Cabbage Chicken Soup lies in its ease of preparation without compromising taste, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

One of the main reasons to adore Simple Instant Cabbage Chicken Soup is its incredible flavor profile. The natural sweetness of the cabbage complements the savory notes of the chicken, resulting in a well-balanced dish that tantalizes the taste buds. The broth becomes infused with the essence of the ingredients, creating a comforting experience with every spoonful. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. Using an instant pot or pressure cooker drastically reduces cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The straightforward method ensures that even beginners can achieve delicious results. The texture of this soup is another reason to love it. The tender chicken mingles beautifully with the soft, slightly crunchy cabbage, creating a satisfying mouthfeel. Finally, the versatility of Simple Instant Cabbage Chicken Soup shines through as it can be adjusted according to personal tastes. From adding spices to incorporating different vegetables, this soup can easily be customized to suit your preferences.

Ingredients :

To prepare Simple Instant Cabbage Chicken Soup, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken Breast: Use about 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, which serves as the protein base for the soup. Chicken breast is lean, making it a healthier option, and it cooks quickly in the instant pot, ensuring tender results.
• Cabbage: One medium head of green cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces, adds bulk to the soup. Cabbage is rich in vitamins K and C, and its slight crunch adds a satisfying texture to the dish.
• Carrots: Two medium carrots, diced, provide natural sweetness and vibrant color. Carrots are a great source of beta-carotene and add a pleasant contrast to the cabbage.
• Onion: One medium onion, diced, enhances the flavor of the broth. Onion adds depth and aroma, making the soup more savory and inviting.
• Garlic: Four cloves of garlic, minced, infuse the soup with a robust flavor. Garlic is not only delicious but also boasts numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
• Chicken Broth: Four cups of low-sodium chicken broth is essential for building the soup’s base. It adds moisture and flavor, allowing the other ingredients to shine.
• Olive Oil: Two tablespoons of olive oil are used for sautéing the vegetables. Olive oil is a healthy fat that contributes to the overall richness of the soup.
• Salt: About one teaspoon of salt helps enhance the flavors of the ingredients. Adjust the amount to taste, keeping in mind the saltiness of the broth used.
• Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper, to taste, adds a subtle heat that complements the other flavors. It rounds out the dish, making it more enjoyable.
• Dried Thyme: One teaspoon of dried thyme introduces an earthy aroma and taste to the soup. Thyme pairs beautifully with chicken and enhances the overall flavor complexity.
• Bay Leaves: Two bay leaves add depth to the broth. They should be removed before serving, as their flavor becomes too intense when cooked for long periods.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes can be added for a bit of heat, depending on your preference. They offer a nice contrast to the richness of the chicken and vegetables.
• Lemon Juice: A tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, added at the end, brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing finish to the soup.

Step by Step :

Follow these detailed steps to create your Simple Instant Cabbage Chicken Soup:

1. Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, dice the onions and carrots, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process and ensure that you don’t miss any steps.
2. Set your instant pot to the sauté function and add two tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat for about a minute until it shimmers.
3. Add the diced onion to the pot, stirring occasionally. Sauté the onions for about 3-4 minutes, or until they become translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavor for your soup.
4. Once the onions are ready, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can develop a bitter taste.
5. Next, add the diced carrots to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the carrots to soften slightly and absorb the flavors from the onions and garlic.
6. Now it’s time to incorporate the chicken breast. Place the chicken in the pot, followed by the chopped cabbage. Stir everything together to mix the ingredients evenly.
7. Pour in four cups of chicken broth to cover the ingredients. The broth is essential for achieving a flavorful soup base.
8. Season the mixture with one teaspoon of salt, freshly ground black pepper, one teaspoon of dried thyme, and add the two bay leaves. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage.
9. Secure the lid on the instant pot and set the valve to sealing. Choose the pressure cooking function and set the timer for 10 minutes. This high-pressure cooking will ensure that the chicken becomes tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
10. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the instant pot to naturally release pressure for about 5 minutes. After that, switch the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure. Carefully remove the lid once it is safe to do so.
11. Remove the chicken breast from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This not only makes it easier to eat but also allows the chicken to mix thoroughly with the broth.
12. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stir well, and taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper according to your preference.
13. Finally, add a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors of your soup. Stir to combine, and let the soup sit for a couple of minutes for the flavors to meld.
14. Serve the Simple Instant Cabbage Chicken Soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the comforting and nutritious flavors!

Tips for Variations:

Enhance your Simple Instant Cabbage Chicken Soup with these creative variations:

• For a heartier soup, consider adding other vegetables such as diced potatoes or zucchini. They will cook down beautifully and add more texture to the broth.
• If you enjoy a more robust flavor, try incorporating spices such as paprika or cumin. These spices will add an additional layer of depth to the dish.
• For a creamier version, consider swirling in a dollop of plain yogurt or coconut cream just before serving. This will create a rich texture and complement the chicken perfectly.
• Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley for a fresh twist. Adding fresh herbs at the end of cooking will infuse the soup with vibrant flavors.
• To make this soup even more filling, consider serving it over a bed of rice or quinoa. This transforms your soup into a complete meal.
• For a kick of spice, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the pot during cooking. This will appeal to those who enjoy a bit of heat.
• If you want to incorporate legumes, adding a can of chickpeas or lentils can boost the protein content and make the soup more hearty.
• For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of chicken and increase the cabbage and vegetable content. This will create a refreshing and healthful dish.

Serving Suggestions:

Serving Simple Instant Cabbage Chicken Soup can be a delightful experience if paired with the right accompaniments:

• This soup is perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner, especially during cooler months. It’s a fantastic option for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
• Consider serving it with crusty whole-grain bread or warm pita for dipping. This adds a satisfying crunch and makes for a more filling meal.
• For special occasions, such as Ramadan, this soup can be a nourishing starter, providing warmth and comfort before the main meal.
• If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• For an elegant presentation, garnish the soup with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Pair the soup with a light salad, such as a simple green salad or a cucumber-tomato salad, to balance the meal and add more vegetables.
• For a seasonal touch, consider serving the soup during fall or winter months, as the warm flavors and comforting nature of the dish align beautifully with the season.

FAQ:

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftovers of Simple Instant Cabbage Chicken Soup, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, ensure it is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze Simple Instant Cabbage Chicken Soup. Allow the soup to cool, then pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables such as potatoes, zucchini, or even green beans can enhance the flavor and texture of Simple Instant Cabbage Chicken Soup. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Simple Instant Cabbage Chicken Soup is excellent for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it easy to portion out for quick meals throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy!

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt Simple Instant Cabbage Chicken Soup for a slow cooker. Simply sauté the onions and garlic, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The result will be just as delicious!