Name: Oktoberfest Chicken with Red Cabbage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp oil; 1 tbsp butter; 1 medium red cabbage, shredded; 1 large apple, thinly sliced; 1 large onion, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1/2 tsp caraway seeds (optional); salt and pepper, to taste

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I love making this Oktoberfest Chicken with Red Cabbage when I want something cozy and satisfying with a touch of German-inspired flavor. The combination of golden seared chicken with sweet, tangy braised cabbage, apples, and onions creates a comforting dish that feels both rustic and special.

Oktoberfest Chicken with Red Cabbage

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon oil

1 tablespoon butter

1 medium red cabbage, shredded

1 large apple, thinly sliced

1 large onion, thinly sliced

2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon brown sugar

½ teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)

salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then I lightly dust them with flour to help create a nice golden crust.

Next, I heat the oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I add the chicken and cook it for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and fully cooked, then I remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, I add the sliced onion and sauté it until it softens and becomes fragrant. Then I stir in the shredded red cabbage and sliced apple, letting them cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.

I mix in the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and caraway seeds if I’m using them, and I season everything with salt and pepper to taste. After that, I cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes until the cabbage becomes tender.

Finally, I return the chicken to the skillet and let it warm through for a few minutes יחד with the cabbage mixture before serving everything hot.

Servings and timing

I usually prepare this dish in about 50 minutes total.

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap the chicken breasts for boneless chicken thighs when I want a juicier texture. If I prefer a deeper flavor, I add a splash of broth or a bit of mustard to the cabbage while it simmers. For a slightly sweeter version, I like to use red apples, while green apples give it a sharper tang.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I prefer to warm everything gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the chicken tender and prevent the cabbage from drying out. If needed, I add a small splash of water or broth to refresh the dish.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I can prepare the cabbage mixture in advance and store it separately. When I’m ready to serve, I cook the chicken fresh and reheat the cabbage.

What can I serve with this recipe?

I like pairing it with mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or even crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

Is the caraway seed necessary?

I find it adds a traditional flavor, but I can skip it if I don’t enjoy its taste.

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?

I can definitely use pre-shredded cabbage to save time, and it works just as well in this recipe.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

I check that the chicken is no longer pink inside and has reached a safe internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

Conclusion

I find this Oktoberfest Chicken with Red Cabbage to be a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy meal. The mix of savory, sweet, and tangy elements makes it a recipe I keep coming back to, especially when I want something hearty and satisfying without too much effort.

📖 Recipe:

Oktoberfest Chicken with Red Cabbage

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A cozy, German-inspired dish featuring golden seared chicken served with sweet and tangy braised red cabbage, apples, and onions. This one-skillet meal is hearty, comforting, and full of balanced flavors.

Instructions

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then lightly dust with flour.
Heat oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onion until softened and fragrant.
Add the shredded red cabbage and sliced apple. Cook for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
Stir in the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and caraway seeds (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
Return the chicken to the skillet and let it warm through for a few minutes with the cabbage mixture.
Serve hot.