Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes

If you’re looking for a cozy, one-pan meal that warms both the heart and the home, then you’re in for a treat with this Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes. This recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it combines simple ingredients into something truly special. The savory notes of tender chicken thighs paired with the earthy flavors of cabbage and potatoes create a comforting dish perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings.

What I love most about this dish is its ease of preparation. You can throw everything together and let the oven do the work while you enjoy some quality time with your loved ones. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce some hearty vegetables into your meals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan wonder: All ingredients cook together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of chicken, cabbage, and potatoes creates a filling meal that everyone will love.
• Family-friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
• Easy prep: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep everything ahead of time and simply bake it when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the best part: the ingredients are simple and wholesome! You likely already have many of these staples in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need for this delightful dish.

For the Dry Rub:

• 1 ½ teaspoons thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken and Vegetables:

• 8 chicken thighs (or preferred cuts)
• 5 slices bacon, cooked and fat reserved
• ½ head cabbage, roughly chopped
• 4 potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• ½ cup chicken stock
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or what you enjoy. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts or even turkey thighs if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some carrots or bell peppers for extra color and flavor!
• Change the spices: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano to suit your taste.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or dairy-free cream before baking for a rich twist.

How to Make Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A warm oven ensures that our chicken cooks evenly and becomes perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Rub

In a small bowl, mix all the dry rub ingredients together. This blend brings amazing flavor to our chicken! Evenly coat each piece of chicken with this rub before setting them aside to soak up those wonderful flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In a large oven-safe sauté pan, cook your bacon until it’s nice and crisp. This step not only adds delicious flavor but also leaves behind some lovely fat that we will use to sear our chicken.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Remove the bacon from the pan (don’t toss that fat!) and sear your seasoned chicken thighs until they’re browned on both sides. We aren’t cooking them through just yet; this step is all about building flavor!

Step 5: Sauté Cabbage

Drain most of the bacon grease but leave a bit in the pan. Add your chopped cabbage and sauté it for about 2–3 minutes until it’s slightly wilted. This softens it just enough while keeping that lovely crunch!

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Next, add those beautiful potato rounds, sliced onions, and chicken stock to the pan. Scrape up any tasty bits stuck at the bottom; those are packed with flavor! Mix everything well so every bite gets that goodness.

Step 7: Add Bacon Back In

Chop up your cooked bacon and add it back into the pan with all those vegetables. Stir it all together because who wouldn’t want more bacon flavor?

Step 8: Arrange Chicken & Bake

Now comes the fun part! Arrange your browned chicken thighs on top of that delicious vegetable medley. Pop the entire pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 45–50 minutes. Your dish is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) – trust me; it’s worth every minute!

Enjoy your Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes as much as I do! It’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home too.

Pro Tips for Making Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes

Creating a delicious Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes is easier than you might think! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme can enhance the flavor of your chicken and vegetables, making them taste vibrant and aromatic.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Searing the chicken in batches ensures even cooking and helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust, which adds depth to the dish.

• Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to tweak the dry rub spices according to your preference. More paprika will give it a smokier flavor, while extra black pepper can add a delightful kick.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain its juices, resulting in tender, succulent meat.

• Experiment with different vegetables: While cabbage and potatoes are traditional, adding carrots or parsnips can bring additional sweetness and texture to the dish.

How to Serve Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes

This hearty meal is not just delicious but also visually appealing when presented well. Here are some ideas for serving that will impress your family or guests!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon over the chicken just before serving can elevate flavors by adding a zesty brightness.

Side Dishes

• Crusty whole grain bread: The perfect accompaniment for soaking up any leftover juices on your plate, it complements the rustic flavors of the dish beautifully.
• Steamed green beans: Their crunchiness provides a nice contrast to the soft textures of chicken and potatoes, adding both color and nutrition.
• Mashed turnips: Creamy mashed turnips offer a delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes, bringing an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.
• Garden salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances out the richness of the main dish while adding freshness.

Enjoy crafting this cozy meal that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep, giving you a hearty dish ready to enjoy throughout the week. With its robust flavors, it’s an easy option to reheat for busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion the chicken and vegetables into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals until warm.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I use other cuts of chicken for Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness, you can use drumsticks or chicken breasts if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they’re cooked through.

How can I customize Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices that you enjoy.

What should I serve with Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes?

This one-pan meal is quite filling on its own! However, it pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad if you’re looking for something extra on the side.

Final Thoughts

Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes is not just a dish; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that brings friends and family together. I hope you find joy in making this recipe as much as I do. It’s easy, satisfying, and full of heartwarming flavors. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any twists you add along the way!