Buttered Cabbage and Chicken

Introduction

Buttered Cabbage and Chicken is a simple, comforting dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken thighs and soft, flavorful cabbage. Slow-cooked with butter and broth, this recipe creates a rich, savory meal with minimal effort. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner and uses just a handful of wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients (Servings: 4)

• 1 small to medium head green cabbage, cored and cut into 6–8 large wedges

• 2 to 2½ pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 4–6 thighs)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste

• 1 teaspoon black pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage:
   Remove any tough or damaged outer leaves. Cut the cabbage into 6–8 large wedges, keeping the core intact so the wedges hold together. Set aside.

2. Season the chicken:
   Lightly season the chicken thighs on both sides with a pinch of salt and black pepper (if using).

3. Layer the cabbage:
   Place the cabbage wedges in the bottom of a 5–6 quart slow cooker, covering most of the base. It’s fine if they overlap.

4. Add the chicken:
   Nestle the chicken thighs, skin side up, among and on top of the cabbage wedges.

5. Add liquid and seasoning:
   Pour the chicken broth evenly over everything. Sprinkle the remaining salt and optional pepper over the top.

6. Add butter:
   Dot the butter pieces evenly over the cabbage and chicken.

7. Cook:
   Cover and cook:

   • On LOW for 6–7 hours, or

   • On HIGH for 3–4 hours
     Until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F / 74°C) and the cabbage is tender.

8. Finish and adjust:
   Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Spoon some of the buttery broth over the dish before serving.

9. Serve:
   Serve the chicken with cabbage wedges and ladle the flavorful broth over each portion. Remove any bones as needed.

Conclusion

This Buttered Cabbage and Chicken recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a deeply satisfying meal. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender chicken and melt-in-your-mouth cabbage. It’s an easy, hearty dish you’ll want to make again and again.