Egg Roll Bowls with Chicken and Cabbage

Introduction

Egg Roll Bowls with Chicken and Cabbage are a delicious, healthy twist on the classic egg roll. These bowls bring all the savory, crunchy goodness of egg rolls but in a light, deconstructed form, without the deep-frying. With tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and a flavorful combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, these bowls are packed with bold, satisfying flavors. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings. You’ll love how simple and nutritious it is while still delivering that egg roll taste you crave.

I remember the first time I made these for a casual weeknight dinner. The aroma of ginger and garlic filling the kitchen made everyone eager to dig in, and the combination of flavors was a huge hit with my family. What’s great about Egg Roll Bowls is how versatile they are—you can add extra veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or onions, or even swap the chicken for another protein like shrimp or tofu. The possibilities for customization are endless!

This dish is surprisingly easy to make, too. With just a few simple ingredients and one skillet, you can have a healthy, flavorful meal ready in no time. Whether you’re craving something light yet filling or want to skip the frying for a healthier alternative, these Egg Roll Bowls are sure to become a new favorite!

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Healthy lunches
  • Low-carb and keto diets
  • Asian-inspired dishes
  • Family-friendly meals

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Egg Roll Bowls with Chicken and Cabbage are a must-try:

  • Healthy and Low-Carb: No frying involved! This recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional egg rolls while still delivering great flavor.
  • Packed with Veggies: Cabbage, carrots, and other veggies add a satisfying crunch and boost the nutritional value.
  • Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe with your favorite veggies or seasonings to suit your taste.
  • Quick and Easy: With just one pan and a few simple ingredients, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Comforting and Filling: The savory chicken and crunchy cabbage will satisfy your hunger while keeping things light.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Egg Roll Bowls with Chicken and Cabbage:

For the Chicken and Cabbage:

  • 1 lb ground chicken (or chicken breast, shredded)
  • 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or a mix of cabbage and carrots)
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or olive oil)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon ground pepper
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Ground Chicken: A lean source of protein that’s perfect for this light, flavorful bowl.
  • Cabbage: The main vegetable in this dish, providing a great crunch and mild flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory seasonings.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
  • Ginger and Garlic: These fresh aromatics provide a zingy depth of flavor.
  • Sesame Oil: Infuses the dish with a nutty, toasty flavor, adding richness without being overpowering.
  • Rice Vinegar: Gives the dish a bit of acidity to balance out the savory elements, though optional.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Egg Roll Bowls with Chicken and Cabbage:

Prepare the Ingredients:

  1. Shred the Cabbage and Vegetables: Thinly slice the cabbage and carrots if you’re using whole vegetables. You can also buy pre-shredded cabbage and carrots to save time.
  2. Chop the Aromatics: Mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and chop the green onions for garnishing later.

Cook the Chicken and Veggies:

  1. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 7-10 minutes).
  2. Add the Vegetables: Add the sliced onions, garlic, and ginger to the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add the Cabbage and Carrots: Toss in the shredded cabbage and carrots. Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage begins to wilt and soften but still has a slight crunch.

Season the Dish:

  1. Season with Soy Sauce and Rice Vinegar: Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar (optional), honey (optional), and ground pepper. Stir everything together until well coated. Adjust the seasoning to taste if necessary (add more soy sauce or honey if you like it sweeter or saltier).

Serve and Garnish:

  1. Serve the Bowls: Divide the cooked chicken and cabbage mixture into bowls.
  2. Garnish and Enjoy: Top each bowl with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and any additional seasonings you desire. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve

  • As is: These bowls are already delicious on their own, perfect for a satisfying meal.
  • With Rice or Noodles: If you want to make the dish more substantial, serve it over a bed of steamed rice or low-carb cauliflower rice for a filling meal.
  • With Toppings: Customize your bowl with optional toppings like avocado, hot sauce, or shredded carrots for extra crunch.

Additional Tips

  • Use ground turkey or lean beef if you prefer a different protein option.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas, for more variety.
  • If you want a spicier version, add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes.
  • For a crunchy texture, you can add crispy wonton strips on top as a garnish.
  • If you prefer a milder dish, omit the ginger and reduce the soy sauce for a lighter flavor.

Recipe Variations

  1. Vegetarian Egg Roll Bowls: Replace the chicken with tofu or more cabbage for a vegetarian version.
  2. Paleo Egg Roll Bowls: Skip the soy sauce and use coconut aminos for a paleo-friendly dish.
  3. Spicy Egg Roll Bowls: Add chili garlic sauce or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
  4. Egg Roll Bowls with Shrimp: Swap out chicken for shrimp for a lighter seafood option.
  5. Egg Roll Bowls with Beef: Use ground beef instead of chicken for a richer, heartier dish.
  6. Egg Roll Bowls with Pork: Substitute ground pork for chicken, if desired.
  7. Keto Egg Roll Bowls: Skip the honey for a low-carb version and serve over cauliflower rice.
  8. Egg Roll Bowls with Peppers: Add bell peppers or other crunchy vegetables for more texture.
  9. Egg Roll Bowls with Peanut Sauce: Drizzle with a peanut or almond butter sauce for a creamy, nutty flavor.
  10. Egg Roll Bowls with Bok Choy: Swap cabbage for bok choy for a different leafy vegetable.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and cabbage mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Special Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Grater for ginger
  • Knife and cutting board for vegetables

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works well as a shortcut.
  2. Can I make this ahead? Yes, the chicken and cabbage mixture can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a couple of days.
  3. Can I substitute the sesame oil? Yes, olive oil or avocado oil can be used in place of sesame oil.
  4. Can I add eggs? Yes, a scrambled egg mixed into the bowl would add extra protein.
  5. Can I make these vegetarian? Absolutely! Use tofu or more vegetables as a meat replacement.

Conclusion

Egg Roll Bowls with Chicken and Cabbage are a healthy and delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of an egg roll without the frying. This quick and easy recipe combines tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and a savory mix of seasonings that will have your taste buds dancing. Customize it with your favorite veggies or protein for a dish that’s as versatile as it is flavorful.

Perfect for a nutritious lunch or a weeknight dinner, these egg roll bowls are packed with satisfying flavors and textures that everyone will love. Plus, they’re a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on taste, making them a go-to meal for any occasion.

I’d love to see how your Egg Roll Bowls turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your tasty creations. Enjoy cooking!

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