Creamy Chicken Bacon Parmesan Cabbage Bake

Creamy, cheesy, garlicky cabbage baked until tender, then loaded with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and melty mozzarella. It’s pure comfort food without the heavy carb load!

Why You'll Love It

• Creamy and cheesy with tons of flavor
• Easy one-dish dinner
• Packed with satisfying chicken and bacon
• Great way to make cabbage the star of the meal
• Easy to customize with shrimp or sausage

Prep & Cooking

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes
• Servings: 4

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 18g

Ingredients

• 1/2 head cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 3 tbsp butter, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup fully cooked chicken, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
• 2 slices cooked bacon, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Add the sliced cabbage, heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of butter, Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the dish. Mix everything thoroughly so the cabbage is evenly coated.
3. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes, until the cabbage has softened and the creamy mixture is bubbling.
4. Carefully remove the foil and stir everything well. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish.
5. Add the chopped chicken, shredded mozzarella, and crispy bacon evenly over the top. Dot with the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
6. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly browned.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Pro Tip: For extra crispy bacon, cook it slightly less than you normally would before adding it to the bake, as it will continue to crisp up in the oven during the final uncovered baking stage!

Ingredient Spotlight

• Cabbage: Provides fiber and makes a satisfying lower-carb alternative to starchy casserole ingredients.
• Parmesan and mozzarella: Add rich flavor, creaminess, and protein.
• Chicken: Provides protein, while bacon adds a smoky, crispy finish.

Easy Swaps

• Swap chicken for grilled shrimp for a seafood version.
• Use browned sausage instead of chicken.
• Try cheddar or Monterey Jack instead of mozzarella.
• Add sliced mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until heated through.
• For best texture, avoid freezing because the cream and cabbage may become watery after thawing.

Serving Ideas

• Serve it as a complete meal with a simple green salad, roasted broccoli, or sautéed zucchini.
• You can also add a little extra Parmesan and black pepper before serving.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What can I substitute for the main ingredient?
Feel free to swap in your favorite lean protein or low-carb vegetable based on what you have on hand.

Why did my dish turn out differently than expected?
Make sure your oven is fully preheated and you follow the ingredient quantities closely for best results.