Chicken and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Creamy Tomato-Dill Sauce Recipe

Chicken and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Creamy Tomato-Dill Sauce Recipe

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Introduction

Nothing warms the soul quite like a plate of Chicken and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Creamy Tomato-Dill Sauce Recipe. Imagine tender cabbage leaves enveloping a savory blend of ground chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and aromatic herbs, all bathed in a luxurious tomato-dill cream sauce. This recipe transforms ordinary dinner into a comforting, restaurant-quality experience that’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy weeknights, or impressing guests, it’s a dish that balances heartiness and elegance effortlessly.

With step-by-step guidance, expert tips, and variations, this guide ensures your Chicken and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Creamy Tomato-Dill Sauce Recipe turns out perfectly every time. Let’s dive into this culinary journey!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Tender and Flavorful: The cabbage leaves soften just enough to wrap the savory chicken and rice filling without tearing.

  • Creamy Tomato-Dill Sauce: Rich, smooth, and infused with fresh dill, elevating the dish to gourmet standards.

  • Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the comforting flavors and balanced texture.

  • Nutritious & Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

  • Easy to Prep Ahead: Assemble the rolls in advance and bake when ready, perfect for meal planning.

  • Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Ground chicken, rice, and cabbage are affordable and widely available.

  • Customizable: Swap the chicken for turkey, add veggies, or make it keto-friendly with cauliflower rice.

  • Freezer-Friendly: Prepare extra batches and freeze for a ready-to-bake dinner anytime.

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

  • 1 large cabbage

  • 1 pound ground chicken

  • 1 cup long-grain rice

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 3 small garlic cloves, minced

  • 3 small carrots, grated

  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika

For the Sauce:

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 1/4 cup tomato sauce

  • 1/4 cup heavy cream

  • 1 cup water

  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For Serving:

  • Sour cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Remove outer leaves from cabbage and blanch them for 5 minutes until soft. Carefully drain and cool on a towel. This prevents tearing while rolling.

2. Cook the Rice

Cook 1 cup of long-grain rice according to package directions. Let it cool completely to avoid wilting the filling.

3. Make the Filling

  • Sauté diced onion over medium heat until golden.

  • Add garlic and grated carrots; cook 5–6 minutes until softened. Cool slightly.

  • In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, ground chicken, sautéed veggies, mayonnaise, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until thoroughly combined.

4. Stuff the Cabbage Leaves

Place 1–1.5 tablespoons of filling in the center of each leaf. Roll tightly, tucking edges inside, and secure with toothpicks if needed.

5. Brown the Rolls

Lightly brown rolls in a skillet over medium heat for added flavor and to help seal the rolls.

6. Make the Sauce

  • Sauté diced onion in the skillet until golden.

  • Add tomato sauce, salt, and water; remove from heat.

  • Stir in heavy cream and chopped dill to create a luscious creamy sauce.

7. Bake the Cabbage Rolls

  • Place browned rolls in a baking dish.

  • Pour sauce evenly over the rolls.

  • Sprinkle additional dill and black pepper on top.

  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–45 minutes until cooked through.

8. Serve

Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess and tang.

Chicken and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Creamy Tomato-Dill Sauce Recipe

Pro Tips

How do I prevent cabbage leaves from tearing?

Blanching leaves in boiling water softens the fibers, making rolling much easier. Cooling them on a towel before stuffing helps maintain shape.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the rolls, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

Can I freeze stuffed cabbage rolls?

Yes! Freeze assembled but unbaked rolls in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Expert Tip:

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of nutmeg to the filling. It creates depth without overpowering the chicken.

Best Ways to Serve

  • Pair with mashed potatoes or buttery noodles for a hearty meal.

  • Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter option.

  • Top with a drizzle of sour cream and extra dill for a restaurant-style presentation.

  • Complement with a warm baguette to soak up the creamy tomato-dill sauce.

Nutrition (Per Serving – 2 Rolls)

  • Calories: 320

  • Protein: 22g

  • Carbs: 30g

  • Fat: 12g

  • Fiber: 4g

  • Sodium: 450mg

Storage & Leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

  • Freezing: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to cooking time.

  • Reheating Tip: Cover with foil to retain moisture and prevent drying out.

Recipe Variations

  • Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for cooked lentils or chickpeas.

  • Keto-Friendly: Use cauliflower rice instead of long-grain rice.

  • Spicy Version: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the filling for a gentle heat.

  • Global Twist: Incorporate feta cheese and pine nuts for Mediterranean-inspired cabbage rolls.

Chicken and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Creamy Tomato-Dill Sauce Recipe

FAQs

What is the best type of rice for stuffed cabbage rolls?

Long-grain rice holds its shape well during baking, preventing mushy fillings.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but reduce baking time slightly as pre-cooked chicken only needs to heat through.

How creamy should the sauce be?

The sauce should coat the rolls generously but remain pourable. Add a splash of water or cream to adjust consistency.

Can I use other greens instead of cabbage?

Swiss chard or kale can work, but blanching and cooking times may vary.

Conclusion

The Chicken and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Creamy Tomato-Dill Sauce Recipe is the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and elegance. Easy to make, fully customizable, and freezer-friendly, it promises to delight family and friends alike. Unlock the full taste experience today and make this recipe a staple in your dinner rotation!

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