Chelsea reached the semis 3-1 on Tuesday, with Gabbidon insisting Cardiff can draw plenty of positives from the experience.
Gabbidon said on BBC Radio: "From a Cardiff City perspective, I thought they gave a great account of themselves.
"For them to be able to play against top level opposition and still play the way they want to and cause the opposition problems, to get themselves back into the game with a fantastic goal from David Turnbull, there'll be a lot of positives that the manager can take.
"It's back to the league which is the bread and butter for them, it's important for them to get promotion back into the Championship.
"But it's been a really good night. Even though they got beat 3-1, I think the fans will go home happy and the players will have enjoyed the occasion.
"Cian Ashford and Dylan Lawlor of Cardiff City show their appreciation to the fans following the team's defeat in the Carabao Cup Quarter Final match between Cardiff City and Chelsea at Cardiff City Stadium on December 16, 2025."
On Chelsea, the former Wales international defender also stated: "It's a professional performance.
"I don't think Chelsea were at their best, probably in third gear at times. But hearing Enzo Maresca before the game, he knew how difficult this game could be.
"There were some difficult moments at times for this Chelsea team, but they stood firm defensively.
"Then there's the quality on the bench, bringing on the likes of Garnacho and Neto, they can settle a game, and that's what we saw in the second half."