My partner is crazy about this soup. As soon as we finish a bowl, he's ready for another serving.

 

This savory Chicken and Cabbage Soup is the kind of heartwarming meal that has been passed down through generations in our family. It’s the perfect remedy for chilly evenings when you need something nourishing, comforting, and simple to prepare. The tender chicken, sweet carrots, and lightly softened cabbage create a perfect balance of flavors, while a finishing touch of fresh dill adds a burst of brightness that elevates the entire dish. Easy to make in a single pot, this soup is ideal for busy weeknights, yet satisfying enough for a lazy weekend dinner. Plus, it’s a delicious way to incorporate healthy vegetables that even the kids will enjoy.

Serving Suggestions:
This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a warm, buttery biscuit for dipping. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette. To make the meal even heartier, consider adding a side of mashed potatoes or steamed rice. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over each bowl just before serving.

Savory Chicken and Cabbage Soup

Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 carrots, sliced into rounds

• ½ head of green cabbage, shredded or chopped

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)

• 6 cups chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

Instructions

1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

2. Soften the vegetables: Add the sliced carrots and shredded cabbage to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.

3. Simmer the soup: Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Finish and serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Just before serving, stir in the fresh dill. Ladle into bowls and enjoy hot with your choice of side.

Variations & Tips

• Creamy Version: For a richer soup, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half after the soup has finished simmering. Heat gently for 5 more minutes before adding the dill.

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add diced potatoes (add them with the broth) or a handful of fresh spinach at the end, stirring until wilted.

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick of heat.

• Turkey Alternative: This is a fantastic way to use up leftover holiday turkey. Simply substitute the chicken with an equal amount of shredded turkey.

• Gluten-Free: To keep this recipe gluten-free, ensure you are using a certified gluten-free chicken broth and serve it with gluten-free bread or crackers.