If you’re on the lookout for a deliciously spicy and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor, look no further than the Buffalo Chicken Cabbage Bowl. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a zesty buffalo sauce, all served over a crunchy bed of cabbage. It’s a perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weekdays or meal prep for the week ahead.
The Upside of Buffalo Chicken Cabbage Bowl
This Buffalo Chicken Cabbage Bowl not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a range of nutritional benefits. Cabbage is low in calories but rich in vitamins C and K, while chicken provides lean protein. The combination of flavors from the buffalo sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices creates a delightful explosion of taste that you won’t want to miss. It’s a hearty meal that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.
Ingredient Notes
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use fresh chicken for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, you can also use pre-cooked chicken.
- Chicken Stock or Broth: Homemade chicken stock adds rich flavor, but canned chicken broth is a convenient alternative.
- Poultry Seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These add depth to the flavor profile of the dish.
- Franks Red Hot Sauce: The star of the show! This sauce gives the dish its signature buffalo flavor.
- Olive Oil: Used for cooking the chicken, it adds healthy fats to the meal.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami richness; it’s a great way to enhance the overall flavor.
- Green Tabasco Sauce: Optional, but it adds a nice kick if you like your dish spicy.
- Sweetener: Balances the heat from the hot sauce; you can use honey, agave, or your favorite sweetener.
Equipment at a Glance
- Large Skillet: For cooking the chicken and sauce together.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurement.
- Sharp Knife: To chop the cabbage and any other toppings.
- Cutting Board: For safe and easy chopping.
- Mixing Bowl: For tossing the cabbage with any additional ingredients.
The Method for Buffalo Chicken Cabbage Bowl
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, shred it using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 1 cup of chicken stock, 3/4 cup of Franks Red Hot Sauce, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 2 teaspoons of green Tabasco sauce (if using), and 1 tablespoon of sweetener. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Add the shredded chicken back into the skillet with the buffalo sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce, allowing it to heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Prepare the Cabbage
While the chicken is warming in the sauce, chop the cabbage into thin slices. This will serve as the base for your bowl.
Step 7: Assemble the Bowl
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cabbage with any additional toppings you desire, such as chopped green onions or shredded carrots. Divide the cabbage mixture into serving bowls and top with the buffalo chicken mixture.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Buffalo Chicken Cabbage Bowl warm, and feel free to drizzle with extra buffalo sauce or ranch dressing if desired. Enjoy every bite of this savory and satisfying dish!
If You’re Out Of…
- Poultry Seasoning: Use a mix of dried thyme, rosemary, and sage instead.
- Chicken Stock: Water can work in a pinch, but the flavor will be less rich.
- Franks Red Hot Sauce: Any other buffalo sauce can substitute, or you can make your own with hot sauce and melted butter.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or brown sugar can be used as alternatives.
Testing Timeline
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Storage & Reheat Guide
Leftover Buffalo Chicken Cabbage Bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If the cabbage wilts, you can add fresh cabbage to the bowl after reheating for added crunch.
Your Top Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Buffalo Chicken Cabbage Bowl is gluten-free. Just make sure to use a gluten-free hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce.
How spicy is this dish?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on how much buffalo sauce and green Tabasco sauce you use. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the hot sauce or opt for a less spicy brand.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! The chicken can be cooked and shredded ahead of time, and the sauce can also be made in advance. Just combine everything when you’re ready to serve.
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Let’s Eat
With its vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients, the Buffalo Chicken Cabbage Bowl is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a comforting dinner, this dish delivers on all fronts. The combination of spicy buffalo chicken and crunchy cabbage is not only satisfying but also fun to eat! Get ready to dig in and enjoy this deliciously spicy meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any day of the week.
Buffalo Chicken Cabbage Bowl
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts fresh or pre-cooked
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 cup Chicken Stock or Broth homemade or canned
- 3/4 cup Franks Red Hot Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 teaspoons Green Tabasco Sauce optional
- 1 tablespoon Sweetener honey, agave, or your choice
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon Poultry Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
For the Bowl:
- 1 head Cabbage chopped into thin slices
Instructions
Preparation Steps:
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and add seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet and let it rest, then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat and add chicken stock, Franks Red Hot Sauce, Worcestershire sauce, green Tabasco sauce, and sweetener. Stir and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add shredded chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce. Heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Chop the cabbage into thin slices for the bowl.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped cabbage with desired toppings. Divide into serving bowls and top with buffalo chicken mixture.
- Serve warm, drizzled with extra buffalo sauce or ranch dressing if desired.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Mixing Bowl
Notes
- Use fresh chicken for the best flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- You can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or tofu.
