Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Cabbage: Your Healthy, One-Pot Comfort Meal Prep Solution

Discover the ultimate weeknight hero: a healthy Instant Pot Chicken and Cabbage recipe that embodies comfort food while being incredibly simple to prepare. This wholesome dish is designed for those seeking a quick, satisfying meal without compromising on flavor or nutritional value. Imagine succulent shredded chicken, tender cabbage, and a rich, creamy sauce, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. It’s a culinary hug in a bowl that’s not only delicious but also remarkably versatile, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals and families. Whether you’re aiming for a balanced diet, efficient meal planning, or just a hearty, fulfilling dinner, this Instant Pot chicken and cabbage creation is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a truly comforting and convenient meal. By combining shredded roasted chicken breast with an abundance of finely chopped cabbage, a hint of savory broth, and a flavorful blend of sautéed onion and garlic in your Instant Pot, you create a foundation of deliciousness. The magic truly happens after cooking, with the addition of a creamy mixture of milk, cornstarch, and cottage cheese, which elevates the texture to an unbelievably smooth and velvety consistency. You won’t believe how lusciously creamy this chicken and cabbage dish turns out!

One of the best features of this dish is its incredible standalone quality. Honestly, I often find myself enjoying it without any additional sides. It’s perfectly balanced and satisfying on its own. Simply portion it into containers, store it in the fridge, and you have a complete, healthy meal ready to be reheated in mere seconds in the microwave whenever hunger strikes. It’s the ultimate solution for effortless meal prep and delicious, ready-to-eat comfort food throughout the week.

Why You Should Make This Instant Pot Chicken Cabbage Recipe Today:

If you’re looking for a meal that ticks all the boxes – delicious, nutritious, and easy – then this Instant Pot Chicken Cabbage recipe is an absolute must-try. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:

1. Incredibly Budget-Friendly and Filling: This recipe uses economical ingredients like cabbage and chicken, transforming them into a hearty, substantial meal that satisfies without breaking the bank. Cabbage is a fantastic, low-cost vegetable that bulks up the dish, ensuring everyone feels full and content, making it perfect for feeding families on a budget or simply enjoying a cost-effective, wholesome meal.
2. Excellent for Meal Prep and Storage: Designed with convenience in mind, this chicken and cabbage dish stores beautifully in the refrigerator for several days. Its flavors actually meld and deepen over time, meaning it often tastes even better the next day. Simply prepare a batch at the beginning of the week, portion it out, and enjoy delicious, homemade meals ready to reheat whenever you need them. It’s a game-changer for busy schedules!
3. A Nutritious, One-and-Done Meal: With over half the recipe comprised of fiber-rich cabbage and lean protein from the chicken, this dish is practically a complete meal in itself. It’s packed with essential nutrients, promoting digestive health and sustained energy levels. You get a perfect balance of macronutrients, making it a smart and simple choice for a healthy lifestyle, requiring no additional sides to feel truly satisfied.
4. Keeps You Full and Satisfied for Hours: I am constantly on the lookout for recipes that provide lasting satiety, and this one truly delivers. The powerful combination of high protein from the chicken and abundant fiber from the cabbage works synergistically to keep hunger at bay for hours. This means fewer cravings, sustained energy, and a feeling of complete satisfaction after each serving. It’s the perfect dish for managing your appetite and supporting your wellness goals.
5. Speed and Simplicity with the Instant Pot: The Instant Pot truly shines with this recipe, drastically cutting down on cooking time and making the process almost hands-off. In just minutes, you can achieve flavors and textures that would typically take much longer on the stovetop. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a nutritious meal on the table fast, allowing you more time to relax and less time spent in the kitchen.

Serving size: 4 servings

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes

Estimated serving size: about 500 grams

Each serving is approximately 2 WW points, making it a fantastic option for those following the Weight Watchers program.

Simple Ingredients for Maximum Flavor:

You’ll love how a handful of readily available ingredients come together to create such a flavorful and satisfying Instant Pot Chicken and Cabbage dish. This recipe relies on fresh produce and pantry staples, ensuring that it’s not only healthy but also convenient to prepare.

• 1 teaspoon oil (olive oil or your preferred cooking oil)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (approximately 300 g or 10.5 oz of boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh)
• 1 small head cabbage, finely chopped (yielding about 6 cups or 700 to 900 g / 1.5 to 2 lbs)
• 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup skim milk (or a dairy-free alternative for a different flavor profile)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening)
• ½ cup cottage cheese (approximately 110 g or 4 oz, fat-free for lower WW points)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions for Instant Pot Chicken Cabbage:

Making this creamy Instant Pot Chicken Cabbage is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a delicious and hassle-free meal:

1. Sauté Aromatics: Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode on normal heat. Once the pot is hot, add the teaspoon of oil. Introduce the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring occasionally. Sauté these aromatics for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step builds a foundational layer of flavor for the entire dish.

2. Add Chicken: Carefully add the shredded cooked chicken to the Instant Pot. Stir it gently to combine with the softened onion and garlic, ensuring the chicken is coated with the flavorful aromatics. Since the chicken is already cooked, this step is just about integrating flavors, not cooking the chicken through.

3. Incorporate Cabbage and Broth: Next, add the substantial amount of finely chopped cabbage to the pot. It might look like a lot, but it will cook down significantly. Pour in the chicken broth over the ingredients. Stir everything thoroughly until all components are well combined and the cabbage is somewhat submerged in the broth. This ensures even cooking under pressure.

4. Pressure Cook: Securely close the Instant Pot lid, making sure the sealing ring is properly in place. Rotate the steam release valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the cooking time to 5 minutes on high pressure. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the cooking countdown begins.

5. Prepare Creamy Sauce: While your Instant Pot is working its magic, use this time to prepare the creamy thickening sauce. In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the skim milk and cornstarch until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps. This prevents the cornstarch from clumping when added to the hot liquid.

6. Add Creamy Finish: Once the 5-minute pressure cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick pressure release by turning the steam release valve to the “Venting” position. Stand clear of the steam. Once the float valve drops, you can safely open the lid. Stir in the prepared milk-cornstarch mixture and the cottage cheese. Mix vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the cottage cheese is fully incorporated, contributing to the creamy texture.

7. Thicken the Sauce: Return the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Allow the chicken and cabbage mixture to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial to ensure the cornstarch is fully cooked, which will thicken the sauce to your desired creamy consistency. The mixture will visibly thicken as it heats.

8. Season and Serve: Taste the chicken cabbage mixture and season generously with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning to your preference, adding more salt, pepper, or other herbs if desired. Serve the Instant Pot Chicken Cabbage hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or vibrant green onions for a touch of freshness and color. Enjoy your comforting, healthy, and easy meal!

Delicious Variations and Smart Substitutions:

This Instant Pot Chicken Cabbage recipe is wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to customize based on your pantry, preferences, or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:

• Add More Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional profile and flavor by incorporating other quick-cooking vegetables. Diced carrots, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach or kale (added during the simmering phase) would be excellent additions.
• Cheese Please!: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or shredded cheddar stirred in at the end, or even melted on top, can add an extra layer of savory depth and creaminess. For a richer, more indulgent feel, consider a touch of cream cheese or mascarpone.
• Herb Power: Beyond parsley and green onions, fresh dill, thyme, or a bay leaf (removed before serving) can add aromatic complexity. Dried herbs like Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence can also be incorporated during the sautéing stage.
• Spice It Up: For a bit of a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic and onion, or a dash of hot sauce before serving. A touch of smoked paprika can also introduce a delightful smoky flavor.
• Alternative Proteins: If you don’t have chicken, cooked turkey breast works equally well. For a vegetarian option, you could use canned chickpeas or white beans (rinsed and drained) and vegetable broth, or even plant-based chicken substitutes.
• Swap Out Onions: While a medium onion is recommended, you can certainly swap in scallions (green onions) for a milder flavor, or even leeks for a slightly sweeter, more refined taste. Add them at the same stage as the onion.
• Broth Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different types of broth. Vegetable broth is an easy swap, and a mushroom broth could add an umami depth.
• Dairy-Free Option: To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute skim milk with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk, and omit the cottage cheese, or use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for creaminess. You might need to adjust cornstarch quantities slightly to achieve desired thickness.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Instant Pot Chicken Cabbage:

Achieving the perfect creamy Instant Pot Chicken Cabbage is easy with a few insider tricks. These tips will help ensure your dish is flavorful, well-textured, and perfectly suited for meal prepping:

1. Choose a Quality Broth: The broth is the liquid foundation of this dish, and its quality significantly impacts the final flavor. Use a good-quality chicken broth (low-sodium is often best to control seasoning) as the chicken and cabbage will absorb all that flavorful goodness during pressure cooking. This small detail makes a big difference in the richness of your meal.
2. Master Your Meal Prep: This recipe is a meal prep superstar! Prepare a larger batch and store it in individual airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat a portion in the microwave for a few minutes. It’s perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the busy workweek, saving you time and effort.
3. Efficient Chicken Preparation:
   • Using Leftover Chicken: This recipe is fantastic for utilizing leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even boiled chicken. Shredding it beforehand ensures quick integration and even distribution throughout the dish.
   • Cooking Raw Chicken: If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can easily cook raw chicken directly in the Instant Pot with the other ingredients. Simply add boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into larger chunks) along with the broth, cabbage, and sautéed onion and garlic in step 3. After the pressure cooking cycle, remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and then stir it back into the pot before adding the creamy sauce ingredients. This method makes it a true one-pot wonder.
4. For an Added Golden Touch: If you desire a slightly different texture and a beautiful golden crust, consider this optional step. After the Instant Pot cooking and the sauce has thickened, transfer the chicken and cabbage mixture to an oven-safe casserole dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of Parmesan cheese or a blend of your favorite cheeses over the top. Broil in a preheated oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. This adds a fantastic depth of flavor and a lovely visual appeal.
5. Chop Cabbage Evenly: For consistent texture and cooking, ensure your cabbage is finely and uniformly chopped. This allows it to soften perfectly during the short pressure cooking time without becoming mushy, while still holding its structure and contributing to the dish’s body.
6. Stir Well Before Serving: Always give the Instant Pot Chicken Cabbage a good stir before serving, especially after reheating. This helps redistribute the creamy sauce and ensures every spoonful is packed with flavor and all the delicious components.

Weight Watchers (WW) Points Breakdown:

This Instant Pot Chicken Cabbage recipe is incredibly Weight Watchers friendly, making it a fantastic choice for those monitoring their intake. Here’s a breakdown of the points for the key ingredients (please note that point values can vary slightly with different WW plans and product brands, so always verify with your current program):

• Olive oil: 1 point (for 1 tsp)
• Chicken broth: 1 point (for 2 cups, depending on brand/sodium content)
• Cornstarch: 2 points (for 2 tbsp)
• Onion: 0 points
• Garlic: 0 points
• Fat-free cottage cheese: 0 points
• Cooked boneless skinless chicken breast: 0 points
• Table salt: 0 points
• Black pepper: 0 points
• Fat-free skim milk: 3 points (for 1 cup)
• Cabbage (all varieties): 0 points

With most of its bulk coming from ZeroPoint foods like chicken and cabbage, this recipe is designed to be highly satisfying while keeping your point count low, making healthy eating both delicious and achievable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Chicken Cabbage:

Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?

Yes, absolutely! If you don’t have cooked chicken, you can add raw boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (cut into larger chunks) directly to the Instant Pot along with the broth and cabbage. After the 5-minute pressure cooking cycle, remove the chicken, shred it, and then stir it back into the pot before adding the milk-cornstarch mixture and cottage cheese. This makes it a truly one-pot meal.

How long can I store leftovers?

This Instant Pot Chicken Cabbage is perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors tend to meld even more overnight, making it a delicious and convenient meal throughout the week. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, with a few substitutions. You can replace the skim milk with unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or any other dairy-free milk alternative. For the cottage cheese, you can omit it entirely or use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a similar creamy texture. Adjust seasoning as needed.

What kind of cabbage works best?

Green cabbage is typically used for this recipe due to its mild flavor and crisp texture that softens beautifully when cooked. However, you could experiment with savoy cabbage for a slightly more tender leaf. Ensure it’s finely chopped for best results and even cooking.

Can I freeze Instant Pot Chicken Cabbage?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, you can freeze this dish. However, be aware that the texture of the cabbage might become slightly softer and the creamy sauce might separate a little upon thawing and reheating. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

A Healthy, Hearty Meal Awaits!

This Instant Pot Chicken Cabbage recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to how healthy eating can be both easy and incredibly satisfying. With its rich, creamy texture, hearty chicken, and nutrient-packed cabbage, it’s a dish that brings comfort without compromise. Whether you’re looking to streamline your meal prep, stick to a budget, or simply enjoy a wholesome dinner that keeps you full for hours, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

The magic of the Instant Pot makes quick work of this dish, transforming simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful experience in minutes. From its versatility in variations to its excellent storage capabilities, every aspect of this recipe is designed for modern, health-conscious living. So, fire up your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a healthy, comforting, and utterly delicious Instant Pot Chicken Cabbage meal that you’ll want to make again and again!