If you love comfort food that comes together quickly and bursts with flavor, the Creamy Chicken Ham and Cabbage Skillet Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s a cozy one-pan meal that perfectly balances the savory richness of chicken ham with the fresh crunch of tender cabbage, all brought together by a luscious, creamy cheese sauce that melts into every bite. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a recipe that feels special yet fuss-free, this skillet dish delivers hearty satisfaction with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the key to making the Creamy Chicken Ham and Cabbage Skillet Recipe shine. Each component adds its own unique texture, flavor, or color that turns this dish into a deliciously balanced meal.
- Chicken Ham (2 cups diced): This provides a smoky, savory base packed with protein; fresh ham can be swapped if preferred for a different flavor profile.
- Green Cabbage (4 cups chopped): Offers vibrant color and a slightly sweet crunch that softens beautifully when sautéed.
- Cottage Cheese (1 cup, blended until smooth): Creates a creamy sauce without heaviness, adding a subtle tang and richness.
- Dijon Mustard (2 tablespoons): Brings a sharp, tangy zing that brightens the dish’s creamy texture.
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Adds earthy warmth; fresh garlic isn’t recommended here to keep the flavor mellow and well-rounded.
- Shredded Cheese (1 cup, such as cheddar): Melts over the skillet to give a golden, gooey, cheesy topping that everyone will love.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Ham and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken Ham
Start by heating a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken ham and cook it until it’s beautifully browned and slightly crispy around the edges—this usually takes about five minutes. This browning step is crucial as it locks in rich flavor and adds a satisfying texture contrast for your dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Cabbage
Next, toss in the chopped green cabbage to the skillet. Sauté the cabbage with the ham for about five to seven minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the cabbage to soften so it becomes tender but still holds onto a bit of its natural crunch and that fresh green color that makes the dish so inviting.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
While your cabbage cooks, in a separate bowl blend the cottage cheese with the Dijon mustard and garlic powder until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This blend is what transforms the skillet into a silky, rich delight, marrying all the flavors together with just the right brightness and depth.
Step 4: Combine and Coat
Pour your cottage cheese sauce into the skillet with the ham and cabbage. Stir thoroughly to ensure every morsel is coated in that luscious creamy mixture. This step melds the ingredients beautifully and preps the skillet for the finishing touch.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Melt
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the skillet. Cover with a lid and let it cook for two to three minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into a gooey, golden blanket. This final layer elevates the dish to pure comfort food heaven, adding a warm, savory finish that’s hard to resist.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Once the cheese has melted, dish out your creamy chicken ham and cabbage skillet hot. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the pan while the flavors are at their peak.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Ham and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten the dish and add a touch of freshness, sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top right before serving. A dash of cracked black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice also complements the creamy sauce wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This skillet is quite hearty on its own, but pairing it with a simple green salad or roasted potatoes can round out the meal beautifully. Light, crisp sides balance the richness of the cream and cheese perfectly without overshadowing the star ingredients.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the creamy chicken ham and cabbage skillet over buttery mashed potatoes or egg noodles. You can also spoon it into baked bell peppers or enjoy it alongside crusty artisan bread for dipping into the sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from the Creamy Chicken Ham and Cabbage Skillet Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It tastes great even after a day or two, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to save some for later. Just transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. When thawed, the texture of the cabbage might soften a bit, but the flavors remain delicious.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat to prevent the cheese from overcooking or separating. Adding a splash of milk or broth can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this skillet?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.
Is fresh garlic a good substitute for garlic powder?
For this particular recipe, garlic powder is recommended as it provides a mild, even flavor. Fresh garlic can be stronger and might overpower the delicate balance of the creamy sauce.
Can I use regular ham instead of chicken ham?
Yes, regular ham works well as a substitute. Just be sure it’s diced similarly so it cooks evenly with the cabbage and sauce.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap cottage cheese and shredded cheese with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream and vegan cheese. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will differ slightly, but it will still be tasty.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! The Creamy Chicken Ham and Cabbage Skillet Recipe is ideal for meal prepping because it stores well and reheats beautifully, making your busy weeknights easier and more delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something that feels both hearty and comforting but is effortless enough for a busy night, you absolutely must try the Creamy Chicken Ham and Cabbage Skillet Recipe. It’s like a warm hug from your kitchen in every bite. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll be a recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to over and over!
Print
Creamy Chicken Ham and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken Ham Cabbage Skillet is a flavorful and quick dish combining tender chicken ham, sautéed cabbage, and a creamy cottage cheese sauce with melted shredded cheese on top. Ready in just 35 minutes, it makes a perfect weeknight dinner that is both hearty and comforting.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups diced Chicken Ham (substitute with fresh ham if preferred)
- 4 cups chopped Cabbage (green cabbage works best)
- 1 cup Cottage Cheese (blend until smooth)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard (adds tanginess)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (fresh garlic isn’t recommended)
- 1 cup shredded Cheese (e.g., cheddar, consider low-sodium)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ham: In a large 12-inch skillet, heat over medium-high and add the diced chicken ham. Cook for about 5 minutes until the ham is browned and slightly crisp, enhancing its flavor.
- Sauté the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet with the ham. Sauté together for 5 to 7 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still bright green, indicating it’s perfectly cooked.
- Make the Creamy Mixture: In a separate bowl, blend the cottage cheese, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder until it forms a smooth, creamy sauce with a tangy flavor and subtle garlic aroma.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir the creamy cottage cheese mixture into the skillet thoroughly, ensuring the ham and cabbage are well coated with the sauce for a rich texture.
- Add Cheese and Melt: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the skillet mixture. Cover the skillet and allow the cheese to melt for 2 to 3 minutes until bubbling and gooey.
- Serve: Once the cheese has melted, dish out the Chicken Ham Cabbage Skillet while hot. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired for added color and flavor.
Notes
- Substitute chicken ham with fresh ham if preferred for a different flavor profile.
- Use green cabbage for the best texture and taste; avoid overcooking to retain color and crunch.
- Blending the cottage cheese ensures a smooth creaminess that integrates well with the other ingredients.
- Low-sodium cheese options help reduce overall salt content without sacrificing flavor.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives are excellent garnishes to brighten the dish just before serving.
