One-Pot Chicken and Cabbage Skillet
A simple and savory one-pot meal where tender chicken and sweet cabbage are gently simmered in a light, herb-infused sauce. Perfectly balanced for a kidney-friendly diet, it's a comforting and easy weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Sauté the aromatics and chicken
- b.Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- c.Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- d.Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- e.Add the chicken cubes to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly browned on all sides. The chicken does not need to be cooked through at this stage.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Wilt the vegetables
- b.Add the sliced cabbage and red bell pepper to the skillet.
- c.Stir everything together, coating the vegetables with the oil and aromatics. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage begins to wilt and reduce in volume.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Simmer the skillet
- b.Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and apple cider vinegar. Sprinkle with dried thyme, black pepper, and the tiny pinch of salt (if using).
- c.Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- d.Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 10-12 minutes.
- e.Continue simmering until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the cabbage is tender.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Garnish and serve
- b.Remove the skillet from the heat.
- c.Stir in the fresh parsley.
- d.Divide into 4 equal portions and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1To boost flavor without salt, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
- 2Ensure your chicken broth is truly low-sodium or 'no salt added' to keep the sodium content in check.
- 3Do not overcook the cabbage if you prefer it with a slight crunch.
- 4This dish can be served over a small portion of white rice, which is lower in phosphorus than brown rice.
Adapt it for your goals.
Diabetic friendly
This recipe is already low in carbohydrates. Ensure to pair it with a suitable low-glycemic side like cauliflower rice to manage blood sugar levels effectively.
budget friendlyBudget friendly
Use chicken thighs instead of breast for a more affordable option, making sure to trim any excess fat. Cabbage is an excellent budget-friendly vegetable.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Low in Sodium
Extremely low sodium content helps manage blood pressure and reduce fluid retention, which is crucial for kidney health.
Controlled Protein
Provides a moderate amount of lean protein to meet nutritional needs without overloading the kidneys.
Rich in Low-Potassium Vegetables
Cabbage and bell peppers are excellent low-potassium choices, providing essential vitamins and fiber without elevating blood potassium levels.
Heart Healthy Fats
Uses olive oil, a monounsaturated fat that is beneficial for cardiovascular health, often a concern with CKD.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this recipe is specifically designed to be healthy for individuals on a renal (CKD) diet. It's low in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, while providing a controlled amount of high-quality protein.