Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that warms your soul, let me introduce you to my favorite dish: Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser! It brings together tender chicken thighs, savory cabbage, and fluffy potatoes—all baked in one pan for easy cleanup. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish delivers comfort and flavor that everyone will love.

What makes this recipe special? It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s about the memories created around the dinner table. The aroma of the smoked paprika and thyme wafting through the house will have everyone asking what’s cooking. Plus, it’s an easy way to get your veggies in while enjoying a satisfying meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Enjoy minimal cleanup while savoring every bite of this delightful dish.
• Family-friendly flavors: The delicious combination of chicken, cabbage, and potatoes makes it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Easy preparation: With simple steps and pantry staples, this recipe fits into any busy schedule.
• Comfort food at its best: This rustic Irish dish offers warmth and heartiness that are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes. You’ll find everything you need right here—no fancy items required!

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 incredibly flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts or even turkey thighs if that’s what you have on hand.
• Switch up the veggies: Add carrots or green beans for extra color and nutrition!
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick.
• Try different herbs: Fresh rosemary or oregano can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.

How to Make Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your dish cooks evenly as soon as it goes in!

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Rub

In a small bowl, mix all the dry rub ingredients together. Coating the chicken with this spice blend gives it wonderful flavor. Make sure each piece is evenly covered before setting them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In a large oven-safe sauté pan, cook the bacon until crisp. The bacon adds a lovely depth of flavor to our dish. Once it’s done, take it out but leave that delicious bacon fat behind—it’s going to help sauté our veggies!

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Now it’s time to sear the chicken in that savory bacon fat! Cook until browned on both sides but don’t worry about cooking it through just yet; we’ll finish it off in the oven later.

Step 5: Sauté the Cabbage

Next up, drain most of that bacon grease from the pan. Keep just enough for flavor! Add in your chopped cabbage and sauté for about 2–3 minutes until it’s slightly wilted. This step softens the cabbage while keeping its vibrant color.

Step 6: Add Potatoes and Onions

Toss in those sliced potatoes and onions along with your chicken stock. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—those are full of flavor! Stir everything well so that all those ingredients mingle happily together.

Step 7: Mix in Bacon

Chop up your crispy bacon and return it to the pan. Mixing it with the vegetables creates little pockets of smoky goodness throughout your dish.

Step 8: Arrange Chicken on Top

Place your seared chicken pieces right on top of those beautifully seasoned veggies. It looks great already!

Step 9: Bake Until Perfectly Done

Finally, transfer the pan to your preheated oven. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The smell will be irresistible!

And there you have it—a comforting plate of Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes

Cooking this deliciously comforting dish can be a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Prep your ingredients ahead of time: By chopping vegetables and measuring out spices before you start cooking, you’ll save time and reduce stress during the cooking process.

• Don’t skip the searing step: Searing the chicken in bacon fat not only enhances flavor but also helps to lock in moisture, resulting in juicy, tender chicken.

• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This prevents overcooking and keeps the chicken moist.

• Experiment with herbs: While thyme is traditional, feel free to mix in other herbs such as rosemary or oregano for added depth of flavor. Fresh herbs can also work beautifully here!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, resulting in more succulent bites.

How to Serve Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes

This hearty meal is best enjoyed straight from the oven, but a little finesse in presentation can truly elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the dish.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side provides a zesty brightness that complements the savory elements wonderfully.

Side Dishes

• Crusty whole grain bread: Perfect for sopping up any delicious juices left on your plate, crusty bread brings a rustic touch that pairs well with this dish.
• Simple green salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette adds crunch and balances out the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted root vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and turnips roasted until golden add sweetness and texture, making them an ideal companion for this one-pan meal.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans: Lightly steamed veggies introduce vibrant color and nutrients while keeping your plate feeling fresh.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a delightful family dinner that’s sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. You can prepare it in advance and store it, ensuring you have a delicious, hearty meal ready to go!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that you might have about this recipe.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes?

Yes! While chicken thighs provide more moisture and flavor, chicken breasts can be used as a substitute. Just be mindful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more quickly.

What sides pair well with Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes?

This one-pan dish is quite filling on its own, but if you’re looking for sides, consider a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up those delicious flavors.

How long will leftovers of Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions.

Can I make Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes without bacon?

Absolutely! You can skip the bacon or use a plant-based alternative for flavor without compromising the overall taste of this comforting dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Irish Chicken with Cabbage and Potatoes! It’s a wonderful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any family dinner table. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!