Slow Cooker Buttered Cabbage and Chicken
If you’re looking for a simple slow cooker chicken recipe that tastes like a true comfort food classic, this Slow Cooker Buttered Cabbage and Chicken is the answer. With just five wholesome ingredients, this easy crockpot chicken and cabbage recipe delivers tender greens, juicy chicken that falls off the bone, and buttery potatoes all in one pot.
Perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday suppers, or holiday gatherings, this budget-friendly slow cooker meal fills your kitchen with cozy, home-cooked aromas without a long ingredient list or complicated prep.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken and Cabbage Recipe
Only 5 simple ingredients
One-pot crockpot dinner (minimal cleanup)
Family-friendly comfort food
Budget-friendly meal idea
Naturally hearty and satisfying
Cabbage becomes meltingly tender, potatoes soak up the rich buttery broth, and the chicken drumsticks turn incredibly juicy after slow cooking.
Ingredients (Serves 6):
8 chicken drumsticks (about 2–2½ pounds), skin-on
1 small head green cabbage (2–2½ pounds), cut into thick wedges
1½ pounds yellow potatoes, cut into large chunks
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
Directions:
Remove any damaged outer cabbage leaves. Cut into 6–8 thick wedges, keeping the core intact so they hold together. Scrub potatoes and cut into large chunks to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Pat drumsticks dry. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and black pepper. This step helps build flavor throughout the crockpot meal.
Add potatoes to the bottom of a 5–7 quart slow cooker.
Sprinkle with remaining salt and pepper.
Arrange cabbage wedges over potatoes.
Place chicken drumsticks on top in a mostly single layer.
Slowly pour melted butter evenly over the chicken and vegetables. As it cooks, the butter combines with the chicken juices to create a rich, savory broth.
Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours
or
Cook on HIGH for 3½–4 hours
The chicken should be fork-tender and easily pull away from the bone. Potatoes should be soft but intact, and cabbage translucent and tender.
For golden, slightly crispy chicken skin, broil drumsticks for 3–5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve directly from the slow cooker and ladle the buttery broth over everything. This classic comfort food dinner pairs beautifully with:
Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread
Simple green salad
Applesauce for balance
Corn casserole or green beans
Fruit crisp or homemade pie for dessert
Health & Comfort Benefits:
While rich and satisfying, this slow cooker cabbage and chicken recipe also offers benefits:
Cabbage is high in fiber and vitamin C
Chicken drumsticks provide protein for fullness
Potatoes add potassium and energy
Slow cooking preserves moisture and enhances natural flavors
It’s wholesome, hearty food made from real ingredients.
Variations & Expert Tips:
Add sliced onion or whole garlic cloves for deeper flavor.
Sprinkle dried thyme, marjoram, or caraway seeds for an old-country twist.
Swap drumsticks for bone-in chicken thighs.
Replace half the butter with low-sodium chicken broth for a lighter version.
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar before serving to brighten the richness.
Shred leftovers and pan-fry for a delicious next-day hash.
Storage & Meal Prep:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This easy crockpot chicken dinner reheats beautifully and is ideal for meal prep.
