Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken is a dish that’s not only delicious but also a ticket to flavor town. Imagine tender chicken, perfectly sautéed with vibrant cabbage, all infused with garlic goodness. Your taste buds will dance with joy as each bite bursts with savory notes that feel like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

There’s something magical about this dish that brings back memories of family dinners where laughter filled the air and plates were piled high. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed Sunday gathering, Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken is your go-to hero for flavorful meals that don’t require an army of culinary skills.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights
- Its rich flavors combine savory garlic with tender chicken and crunchy cabbage for an unforgettable experience
- The vibrant colors make your plate pop, turning dinner into a feast for the eyes
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, noodles, or enjoy on its own!
Ingredients for Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; minced garlic adds an aromatic punch.
- Cabbage: Green cabbage works well here; it adds crunch and sweetness as it cooks down.
- Olive Oil: A splash of good-quality olive oil helps achieve that perfect sauté and adds healthy fats.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce enhances the umami flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds warmth; feel free to adjust to your spice preference.
For the Sauce:
- Honey: A touch of honey balances the flavors beautifully; plus, who doesn’t love a hint of sweetness?
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing and slicing your cabbage into thin strips. Mince the garlic finely so that it can infuse its flavor throughout the dish. Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces; this helps them cook evenly and quickly.
Step 2: Heat Things Up
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in about two tablespoons of olive oil. Allow it to heat up until shimmering (but not smoking). Add the minced garlic first and sauté for about one minute until fragrant—don’t let it burn!
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the pan with the garlic. Season them with black pepper and cook for about five minutes or until they are golden brown on all sides. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add Cabbage
Once the chicken is nicely browned, toss in your sliced cabbage along with soy sauce and honey. Stir everything together and let it cook for another five to seven minutes until the cabbage wilts down but still retains some crunch.
Step 5: Final Touches
Taste your creation and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you love more garlic (who doesn’t?), sprinkle in some extra minced garlic at this stage—cooking it just long enough to soften but not burn.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer your beautiful Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken onto plates. You can drizzle any remaining sauce from the skillet over each serving for an added flavor boost!
This meal is perfect for impressing guests, family dinners, or simply treating yourself after a long day. Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- This amazing sautéed garlic cabbage chicken recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then remove it from the pan. Use the leftover goodness to sauté garlic and cabbage before returning the chicken to finish cooking. This sequence ensures every bite is packed with flavor and cooked to perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cabbage for kale or bok choy, depending on your mood. You can also play with spices—try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or some lemon zest for brightness. The options are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture and prevent dryness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh garlic for maximum aroma and flavor—it makes a world of difference!
- Always let your chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender
- Don’t rush the sautéing process; allow the cabbage to caramelize slightly for richer taste
I remember the first time I made sautéed garlic cabbage chicken for my friends. Their eyes lit up as they tasted it, and one even declared me a “kitchen wizard.” It felt like I’d conjured culinary magic!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken?
To make Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken, gather the following ingredients: chicken breast, green cabbage, garlic cloves, olive oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. You may also want to include optional add-ins like ginger or sesame seeds for extra flavor. This simple yet delicious dish highlights the fresh taste of cabbage while blending perfectly with tender chicken. Ensure that all ingredients are fresh for the best results.
How long does it take to prepare Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken?
Preparing Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken typically takes around 30 minutes. You will need about 10 minutes to chop the vegetables and chicken. Cooking time usually requires another 15-20 minutes on medium heat until the chicken is cooked through and the cabbage is tender yet crisp. This quick meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a healthy dish ready in no time.
Can I substitute chicken with another protein in Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken?
Yes, you can easily substitute chicken with other proteins in Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken. Tofu works well for a vegetarian version, while shrimp or beef can add a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for each protein type to ensure everything is cooked properly without sacrificing taste or texture. Feel free to experiment with your favorite protein options!
What side dishes pair well with Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken?
Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken pairs beautifully with several side dishes. Steamed rice or quinoa complements the dish wonderfully, adding a base that absorbs the flavors. You could also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition and color. A light salad can balance out the meal nicely as well, making it fresh and vibrant.
Conclusion for Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken:
Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken is an easy and nutritious dish that combines tender chicken with flavorful sautéed cabbage and garlic. With just a few simple ingredients and quick preparation time, you can create a delightful meal suitable for any occasion. Remember to customize it by adding your favorite proteins or side dishes to enhance its appeal further. Enjoy this delicious recipe that brings together comfort and health on your plate!

Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Sautéed Garlic Cabbage Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with vibrant cabbage and aromatic garlic. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering a delightful balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors. Serve it over rice or enjoy it solo for a satisfying dinner that brings comfort to the table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 4 cups green cabbage, sliced
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by slicing the cabbage into thin strips and mincing the garlic. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Sauté minced garlic for about one minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken pieces to the skillet, season with black pepper, and cook for about five minutes or until golden brown.
- Toss in the sliced cabbage, soy sauce, and honey. Stir well and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cabbage is tender yet crisp.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm, drizzling any remaining sauce over each plate.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg