Delicious Southern Fried Cabbage Chicken Stew Recipe
Are you in the mood for a hearty, soul-warming dish that will feed the whole family? Look no further than my Southern Fried Cabbage Chicken Stew Recipe. This dish is packed with flavor and nourishment, perfect for any occasion.
Now, I know what you might be thinking – cabbage? Trust me when I say that this Southern staple can be absolutely delicious. When fried up with bacon and onions, it creates a savory base for your stew that will leave your taste buds craving more. And don’t forget about the chicken – tender and juicy, it blends perfectly with the cabbage to create a stew that is both comforting and satisfying.
This recipe isn’t just about taste though. It’s also keto-friendly, perfect for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt. And if you’re looking to mix things up, there are plenty of variations and substitutions you can make to truly make it your own.
So if you’re ready to experience some true Southern comfort food, grab your ingredients and let’s get cookin’.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you searching for a hearty and soulful stew that combines the warmth of Southern hospitality with the comfort of home-cooking? Look no further than our Southern Fried Cabbage Chicken Stew Recipe. This stew marinates tender and juicy chicken breast in a delectable blend of herbs and spices, simmered to perfection with bacon, onions, and Great Northern beans. But what really sets this recipe apart is the addition of crunchy fried cabbage, coated in savory seasonings that will have your taste buds singing.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in some authentic Southern cuisine without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. With the option to use either chicken breasts or andouille sausage, this stew can cater to a variety of dietary needs. And for those following a keto-friendly diet, this recipe can easily be modified by swapping out the potatoes for steamed cabbage or adding a dash of brown sugar instead of using regular sugar.
But most importantly, you’ll love this recipe because it is the epitome of comfort food. The aroma alone will take you down memory lane – tender pieces of chicken and crunchy bites of cabbage simmering away until they are melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Whether you are serving up bowls of this stew for family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Trust us – once you give this recipe a try, you’ll never go back to plain old chicken stew again!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this savory and hearty Southern Fried Cabbage Chicken Stew recipe:
- Water to boil
- 2 chicken bouillon cubes
- 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1.5 lbs potatoes, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 lbs chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-size pieces
- 6 slices bacon, chopped into small pieces
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 1 head cabbage, cored and shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients are pretty easy to find at any grocery store, but you may already have some of them in your pantry. The best way to make sure you have everything is by checking the ingredient list several times before going shopping or starting the recipe. If you’re missing an ingredient or need to make substitutions, don’t worry – I’ll share some alternatives in the next section.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Preparing the Bacon and Chicken Breast
Before anything else, we must prepare the bacon and chicken breast to add depth of flavor to our southern fried cabbage chicken stew. Start by slicing your bacon (2-3 strips) into small pieces and set aside. Then slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéeing the Onions
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add a tablespoon of oil and begin sautéing 1/4 cup of chopped onions until they are translucent. This will typically take about 2-4 minutes, be patient and make sure not to brown or burn the onions.
Step 3: Adding the Cabbage
When the onions are perfectly cooked, it’s time to add our star ingredient- cabbage! You can chop it up into any size you want, just be sure to add it in gradually if you have a lot so as not to overflow your pot. Stirring occasionally, cook for about 5-7 minutes until the cabbage begins to wilt and turn translucent.
Step 4: Adding Chicken and Bacon
Once the cabbage is tender, it’s time to add in your sliced chicken breasts and bacon. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes until everything is thoroughly cooked through.
Step 5: Adding Water, Chicken Bouillon Cubes, Great Northern Beans, and Potatoes
At this point, we need some liquid in our stove-top stew to make it less likely to burn. Add in the following ingredients: 4 cups of water, 2 chicken bouillon cubes, 1 can of drained Great Northern beans, and diced Potatoes (6 – 8 oz).
Step 6: Seasoning with Salt & Pepper
To give some flavor, generously season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Simmering Over Medium Heat
Simmer everything together over medium heat until potatoes are tender and the whole mixture is fragrant. Usually, it will take about 20-30 minutes for everything to be well cooked through.
Step 8: Adjusting the Flavor
At this point, your stew should be ready to taste. Are there any adjustments you need to make? Add a pinch of salt or pepper (and maybe some Cajun seasoning), to give the perfect southern flavor.
Step 9: Finishing Touches
If needed, thicken up the sauce with a little flour-water slurry. This creates a velvety texture by absorbing the extra liquid in your pot.
Our southern fried cabbage chicken stew is now complete! It’s best enjoyed with warm buttery bread or even just steamed cabbage on the side as a healthy option. You can keep it keto-friendly by omitting potatoes and adding cajun seasoning or smoked paprika.
Substitutions and Variations
The beauty of this Southern Fried Cabbage Chicken Stew Recipe is that you can easily make it your own by swapping out some of the ingredients. Here are a few substitutions and variations that you might consider:
– Andouille Sausage: If you’re looking for more of a bold flavor, why not try substituting the chicken breasts for some andouille sausage? The smoky flavor will add a depth of complexity to this stew.
– Smothered Cabbage: For an even richer flavor, try adding some ham hocks and bell peppers to the mix. The combination of flavors will offer a decadent and hearty stew that you’ll want to savor every bite of.
– Keto-Friendly: For those following a keto diet, simply swap out the potatoes for some steamed cabbage. You may also want to use chicken broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
– Cajun Cabbage Stew: To give your Southern Fried Cabbage Chicken Stew Recipe a bit of a kick, consider adding some brown sugar and red pepper flakes to the mix. The Cajun flavors come together in this hearty stew for a truly satisfying meal.
The possibilities with this recipe are endless, so don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it. Experiment with different combinations until you find what works best for you.
Serving and Pairing
After all the hard work and anticipation, it’s time to enjoy your Southern Fried Cabbage Chicken Stew! This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or Sunday meals that bring everyone together.
One great way to serve this dish is by pairing it with some steamed white rice, which makes for a satisfying side dish that perfectly compliments the stew’s creamy and flavorful base. You can also try serving this stew with some crusty bread to make it extra filling and delicious.
Another suggestion would be to sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top of the stew for an added pop of flavor and freshness. It will add a bright and vibrant green color to your already eye-catching bowl of deliciousness.
Furthermore, you can also pair this stew with a dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir, which will complement the savoury flavours of the chicken and bacon in the recipe. If you’re feeling adventurous or want to add a little spice into your life, try pairing this meal with an ice-cold beer for a classic Southern-style experience.
Overall, this Southern Fried Cabbage Chicken Stew has plenty of possibilities when it comes to serving and pairing options. You can experiment with different combinations to find the perfect match that works best for you and your family.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
This Southern Fried Cabbage Chicken Stew recipe is a nourishing dish that can be easily made ahead of time for those busy weeknights. To make ahead, simply prepare the recipe according to the instructions provided and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. You can store the stew in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to serve, warm the stew on low heat in a large pot or Dutch oven until it reaches your desired temperature. If the stew has been frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. Add additional water or chicken broth if necessary since stew tends to thicken as it cools.
Another great way to enjoy this dish is by using leftovers in creative ways, such as stuffing it into tacos or burritos for a delicious twist on traditional Mexican fare. The possibilities are endless!
Lastly, for those following a keto-friendly diet, feel free to omit potatoes and use cauliflower or turnips instead. The taste will differ slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious, and you will keep your keto meal on track. So, indulge your taste buds without sacrificing your diet!
Tips for Perfect Results
Making a delicious southern fried cabbage chicken stew requires a bit of finesse and practice. However, with some helpful tips and tricks in your arsenal, you can easily achieve the perfect results every time. Here are some of my go-to tips for making the ultimate southern-style cabbage chicken stew.
1. Cut the Cabbage into Uniform Pieces
To ensure even cooking, it’s important to cut the cabbage into uniform pieces. Consider aiming for pieces with about the same size as a playing card. This will help each piece cook evenly and create a more consistent texture throughout your stew.
2. Use High-Quality Broth
Chicken broth is one of the key ingredients in this recipe, so it’s important to use high-quality broth for the best flavor. I recommend making your own chicken broth from scratch, but if you’re short on time or resources, opt for a high-quality store-bought option.
3. Let the Stew Simmer Slowly
One of the secrets to creating rich, flavorful stews is to let them simmer slowly over low heat. This allows all of the ingredients to meld together and create a depth of flavor that can’t be rushed.
4. Add Salt Gradually
When seasoning your stew with salt, it’s important to add it gradually throughout the cooking process. Taste the stew as you go and adjust the salt levels accordingly. Remember, it’s easier to add salt than it is to take it away!
5. Try Different Meats
While chicken is a delicious protein option for this recipe, don’t be afraid to mix things up and try different meats like ham hocks or andouille sausage for added flavor and texture.
By following these tips, you can elevate your southern fried cabbage chicken stew game and impress everyone at your dinner table!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Southern Fried Cabbage Chicken Stew recipe is the perfect definition of soul food. It’s filled with delicious flavors and textures that will take you on a journey to the American South. After all, who wouldn’t want to experience the comfort of hearty veggies along with tender bacon and chicken in one pot? This meal is ideal for any occasion, from family dinners to gatherings with friends.
With these simple instructions, tips, and tricks, you can now make your own authentic Southern Fried Cabbage Chicken Stew recipe. By following these steps closely, you will be able to create a mouth-watering dish that’ll leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.
So why not whip up a pot of this fantastic stew tonight? Have fun, experiment as much as you like, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones. Until next time, have fun trying out this delicious recipe!
Southern Fried Cabbage Chicken Stew Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 heads cabbage (small)
- 2 medium onions
- 10 slices bacon
- 2 large chicken breasts (with bone)
- 2 (15 1/2 ounce) cans great northern beans
- 8 medium potatoes (cubed)
- 2 (14 ounce) cans chicken broth
- 8 chicken bouillon cubes
- 8 (14 ounce) cans water (from chicken broth can)
Instructions
- Render fat from bacon (more rendered bacon fat may be needed if you wish to use any two larger heads of cabbage).
- Remove bacon from skillet and chop into bite size pieces. Set aside and let drain on paper towels.
- Shred cabbage as if making coleslaw.
- Slice onions into thin half moon.
- Saute cabbage and onion in bacon fat until lightly browned.
- Mix bacon pieces in with cabbage and onions. Set aside and let drain on paper towels.
- Peel potatoes. Dice into bite sized pieces.
- Season chicken with Soul Seasoning and pepper (or whatever you have around).
- Fry until well browned in skillet with bacon fat.
- Add chicken broth, bouillon cubes, potatoes and water.
- Boil until chicken well tender.
- Set aside two chicken halves to cool.
- Shred into chunky bite sized shreds.
- Add chicken, potatoes, cabbage mixture and 2 cans of northern beans.
- Boil all until rendered down into thick gravy like consistency.
- Let cook until chicken is tender and all flavors are well blended, at least for 1-1 1/2 hours extra. Remember the longer you cook this, the better it is going to taste, so a crock pot would be "PERFECT" for this particular dish.
- NOTE: If dish is too fatty for you.
- After and only after frying the chicken, you may take a paper towel and take the grease out of the pan, if you are cooking in a skillet or pot of some kind do not clean the skillet.
- You will need all the flavor on bottom of pan for flavoring.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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