Instant Pot Chicken And Cabbage Soup

Instant Pot Chicken and Cabbage Soup is a hearty, wholesome dish perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and rich flavor, this soup delivers comfort and nutrition in every spoonful.

Using the Instant Pot makes it quick, easy, and nearly effortless. Ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Chicken and Cabbage Soup is the ultimate one-pot comfort meal, perfect for chilly winter nights. With the rain pouring down and temperatures dropping, there's nothing better than a warm, hearty bowl of soup that's both delicious and nourishing. I wanted something light yet satisfying, without any added cream or extra fat, and this recipe turned out to be exactly that.

It's quick to prepare, incredibly healthy, and requires minimal effort. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like garlic, onion, celery, carrots, tender chicken, and plenty of fresh cabbage, this soup comes together beautifully with just a touch of salt and pepper. Every spoonful is packed with flavor and comfort, pure goodness in a bowl!

Jump to:

• About Chicken and Cabbage Soup
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Pro Tips
• Variations
• Storage and Reheating
• Toppings
• Instant Pot Soups
• Instant Pot Chicken And Cabbage Soup

About Chicken and Cabbage Soup

This soup combines tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and aromatic vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. The Instant Pot locks in nutrients and flavor, creating a deeply satisfying soup in a fraction of the time compared to traditional stovetop cooking.

It's naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and can easily be adapted for keto or Whole30 diets. Whether served as a light lunch or a filling dinner, this recipe is a go-to for healthy comfort food lovers.

Ingredients

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs provide lean protein and a tender texture.

Cabbage: Adds bulk, fiber, and a mild sweetness that balances the savory broth.

Carrots and Celery: Classic soup vegetables that enhance flavor and add color.

Onion and Garlic: Build the aromatic base for the soup.

Diced Tomatoes: Add acidity and depth to the broth.

Chicken Broth: The foundation of the soup, bringing all the ingredients together.

Seasonings: Salt, pepper, thyme, paprika, and a bay leaf create a balanced, comforting flavor profile.

Olive Oil and Lemon Juice: Olive oil helps sauté the vegetables, while lemon juice brightens the final dish.

Instructions

Homemade Chicken and Cabbage Soup is an easy, healthy, and low-carb meal that comes together in minutes. It's light yet filling, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome dinner. I've been enjoying this soup often, it's nutritious, satisfying, and has quickly become a regular on our dinner menu.

There are a few ways to prepare this soup. Some prefer to add the cabbage at the beginning along with the chicken, but I like to stir it in after the chicken is cooked. Since cabbage cooks quickly, adding it later keeps it crisp and flavorful rather than too soft. Of course, if you enjoy a softer texture, you can add it earlier, the soup will still turn out absolutely delicious!

Method:

1. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add olive oil and sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add chicken, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, thyme, paprika, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Allow a 10-minute natural release, then carefully perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
5. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and set it aside.
6. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode (High). Add the cabbage. Bring the soup to a gentle boil and adjust the seasoning to taste. Let it cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and reaches your preferred texture.
7. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot and let it heat through gently.
8. Stir in lemon juice if using.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

1. Sauté for flavor: Don't skip the sauté step, it helps develop a rich, savory base.
2. Use thighs for tenderness: Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts during pressure cooking.
3. Add greens at the end: For extra nutrition, stir in spinach or kale after cooking.
4. Adjust seasoning after pressure release: Flavors deepen as the soup cooks, so taste before adding more salt.
5. Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
6. Using Leftover Chicken: To make this soup with leftover cooked chicken, skip adding raw chicken before pressure cooking. Prepare the soup base as directed, sauté the vegetables, add broth, cabbage, tomatoes, and seasonings, then cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes instead of 10. Once the pressure is released, stir in the shredded or chopped leftover chicken and let it warm through for 2-3 minutes before serving. This method prevents the chicken from becoming dry while still infusing it with flavor.
7. Broth Options: Use homemade or low-sodium chicken broth for better control over salt levels.
8. Vegetable Variations: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans for extra color and nutrients.

Variations

Egg Noodles: Occasionally, I like to toss in some egg noodles to make the soup heartier and more fun, especially for kids.

Vegetables: Add a handful of peas, corn, or green beans to boost the nutrition and color of the soup.

Vegetarian Version: To make this soup completely vegetarian, skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For added protein, substitute tofu, chickpeas, or your favorite plant-based protein.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.

Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For best texture, reheat gently to avoid overcooking the vegetables.

Toppings

I usually enjoy this soup as it is, simple and comforting, but you can easily dress it up with your favorite toppings. Some of our family favorites include:

• A sprinkle of finely shredded cabbage for extra crunch
• A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice, along with chopped cilantro, green onions, or sliced jalapenos for brightness and flavor
• A drizzle of chili garlic sauce, your favorite hot sauce, or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Instant Pot Soups