Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage is one of those dishes that can instantly transport you to the heart of comfort food heaven. I remember the first time I made this delightful recipe; the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic filled my kitchen, and I could hardly wait to dig in. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that combines tender pieces of chicken with the rich creaminess of coconut milk and the tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. As I stirred the pot, I could see how the ingredients melded together beautifully, promising a dish that was not only delicious but also nourishing. I often find myself turning to this recipe on busy evenings, when I want something hearty yet easy to prepare. You know, the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day?
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
10 mins
25 mins
Easy
450 kcal
30 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
30 g
large pot such as a Dutch oven
Why This Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage Hits Different
Rich and Creamy
The Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage showcases the magic of creamy textures. The use of full-fat coconut milk provides a luscious base that envelopes the chicken and vegetables, making every bite a delightful experience.
Flavor Explosion
With the combination of paprika, red pepper flakes, and sun-dried tomatoes, this dish packs a flavorful punch that tantalizes your taste buds. Each ingredient complements the other, creating a delicious harmony that makes it hard to resist.
Quick and Easy
This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for those hectic weeknight dinners. You can have it on the table in about thirty-five minutes, giving you more time to relax or spend with loved ones.
Healthy Ingredients
Packed with nutritious ingredients, this meal is as good for you as it is satisfying. The inclusion of cabbage, spinach, and chicken provides a wonderful balance of vitamins and protein.
Versatile Dish
Whether served over rice, with crusty bread, or on its own, the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage is versatile enough to suit any occasion. You can easily adapt it to include other vegetables or spices you love.
Comfort Food
This dish epitomizes comfort food. It’s warm, filling, and just what you need when it’s chilly outside or when you’re simply craving something hearty. It’s a family favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients Overview for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage
The ingredients in this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage recipe work together to create a dish full of flavor and texture. From the vibrant cabbage to the rich coconut milk, each component plays a crucial role. The chicken adds protein, while the spinach provides a beautiful green color and nutrients. Together, they create a meal that is not only satisfying but also nutritious.
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil: Ideal for sautéing due to its high smoke point, it gives a rich flavor base for the dish.
- ½ yellow onion: Finely chopped to enhance the overall flavor with its sweetness and aroma.
- 1.25 to 1.5 lbs chicken thighs: Offers more flavor and moisture than chicken breasts, making the dish tender.
- 1 large head cabbage: Adds crunch and nutrition, balancing the creamy elements.
- 4 cloves garlic: Adds depth and richness to the flavor profile.
- 1 (14-oz) can full-fat coconut milk: Provides the creamy texture and a hint of sweetness.
- 1 tsp paprika: Enhances the flavor with its mild spice and bright color.
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a kick of heat to the dish.
- 1 (8.5-oz) jar sun-dried tomatoes: Infuses a tangy flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- 1 Tbsp gluten-free all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the sauce for a creamy consistency.
- 1 tsp fresh lemon zest: Brightens the dish with its citrusy aroma.
- 5 ounces baby spinach: Adds a fresh touch and additional nutrients.
- 1 tsp sea salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Provides a hint of warmth to the overall flavor.
Directions for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage
Making the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage is a breeze, and you’ll love how everything comes together in one pot. Gather your ingredients and let’s get started!
- Start by heating the avocado oil over medium-high heat in a large, thick-bottomed pot, such as a Dutch oven. When the oil is shimmering, it’s time to move on.
- Add the chopped yellow onion to the pot. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to turn golden brown, which should take about five minutes. This is where the flavor begins to build!
- Next, transfer the chopped chicken thighs to the skillet, arranging them in an even layer. Allow the chicken to cook for a few minutes without stirring, so it can get a nice sear. Then give it a good stir to combine it with the onions.
- Now, it’s time to add the stars of the show: toss in the sliced cabbage, minced garlic, can of full-fat coconut milk, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and the drained sun-dried tomatoes. The pot will be quite full – don’t worry; it will cook down!
- Cover the pot and bring everything to a full boil. This is key for ensuring the cabbage wilts down nicely.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and cook for about ten to twelve minutes, stirring occasionally. Look for the cabbage to become tender, which will enhance the flavor as it melds with the other ingredients.
- Now, stir in the gluten-free all-purpose flour to help thicken the sauce, followed by the lemon zest and baby spinach. Cover the pot again and let it cook for another two to three minutes. You’ll notice the spinach wilting beautifully.
- Take a moment to taste the dish and season with sea salt and black pepper to your liking. This is an essential step to ensure everything tastes just right!
- Once everything is well-seasoned and cooked through, serve the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage hot in bowls, and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooking Temperature: Ensure medium-high heat for sautéing to get a nice golden color on the onions and chicken.
- Flavor Depth: Allow the cabbage to cook down fully for optimal flavor development.
- Thickening Agent: Adding flour too early can lead to clumping, so make sure to add it after the vegetables have cooked down.
- Tasting Method: Always taste your dish before serving to adjust seasoning as needed.
Tips and Tricks about Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage
Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage turns out perfectly!
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to three months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Pairing: Serve with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal, or alongside crusty bread for dipping.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
- Meal Prep: This dish can be made ahead of time; just reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Perfect Pairings for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage
When serving the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage, consider these delightful pairings to enhance your meal:
- Rice: Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy goodness.
- Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition.
- Occasions: This dish is great for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy date night in.
- Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage is a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food, combining rich flavors and hearty ingredients into a single pot. It’s perfect for any night when you want something satisfying but don’t have hours to cook. I encourage you to try it out; it’ll soon become a family favorite that you crave again and again.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken and Cabbage
Equipment
- large pot such as a Dutch oven
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil
- ½ yellow onion finely chopped
- 1.25 to 1.5 lbs chicken thighs chopped into bite sizes
- 1 large head cabbage cut into thin slices
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 14-oz can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 1 8.5-oz jar sun-dried tomatoes drained
- 1 Tbsp gluten-free all-purpose flour or regular all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp fresh lemon zest
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat in a large thick-bottomed pot such as a Dutch oven. Add the yellow onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until it begins to brown, about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the chopped chicken thighs to the skillet and arrange it in an even layer. Cook for a few minutes, untouched, then give it a big stir.
- Add the sliced raw cabbage, garlic, can of full-fat coconut milk, paprika, red pepper flakes, and sun-dried tomatoes to the pot. The pot will be very full and difficult to stir at first. This improves over time as the meal cooks. Cover the pot and bring to a full boil.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage has wilted to a tender texture, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Stir in the gluten-free all-purpose flour, followed by the lemon zest and baby spinach. Cover the pot again and cook until the spinach has wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. Taste the chicken and cabbage for flavor and add sea salt and black pepper to your personal taste. Serve in bowls and enjoy!
Notes
- Chicken Choice: I recommend sticking with chicken thighs if you prefer tender chicken. Boneless chicken breasts are the best option if you’re looking to lower calories.
- Protein Amount: Use one to two packages of chicken, depending on how much protein you are going for per serving.
- Weight Used: I used 1.3 lbs of chicken in this recipe, which is what the nutrition facts are based on below.
