Chicken Egg Roll Bowls: A Healthy and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish Recipe
If you love the classic flavors of egg rolls but want something lighter, quicker, and super satisfying, you are going to adore this recipe. Chicken Egg Roll Bowls: A Healthy and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish Recipe takes that nostalgic, savory taste and transforms it into a nourishing bowl bursting with texture, aroma, and umami goodness. Imagine tender ground chicken mingling with crisp cabbage and green onions, all coated in a perfectly balanced sauce that’s at once tangy, savory, and with just the right kick. It’s comfort food with a healthy makeover, perfect for weeknight dinners or anytime you crave a delicious meal without the fuss of frying or rolling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity, using fresh, accessible ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a vibrant, flavorful experience. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s building the savory base, adding crunch, or infusing those signature Asian-inspired flavors.
- 1 lb. ground chicken: The lean protein that keeps the dish light yet hearty, plus it absorbs all the delicious seasonings beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the meat and adding richness without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt and ground pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors and add just the right amount of savory depth.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce: Brings that essential umami and saltiness while keeping sodium in check.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Adds a subtle nuttiness and warmth, a must-have for that authentic taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives a bright, aromatic punch to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger: Lends a fragrant zing that complements the garlic and enriches the overall flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon roasted red chili paste: Provides gentle heat and a lovely depth; adjust to your spice preference.
- 4 cups coleslaw mix: A vibrant mix of shredded cabbage and carrots that adds crunch, color, and freshness.
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced: Offers a mild onion flavor and a splash of bright green that wakes up the dish visually and taste-wise.
- Sesame seeds, for garnish: Enhance texture and give a polished, restaurant-quality finish.
How to Make Chicken Egg Roll Bowls: A Healthy and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and season it lightly with salt and pepper. Stir frequently, breaking up the meat with your spatula, until it’s evenly browned and cooked through. This step sets the foundation of flavor, so take your time to get a nice sear on the meat.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger
Once the meat is nicely browned, toss in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Sauté for another 1 to 2 minutes until you smell those fragrant aromas filling your kitchen. This step infuses the meat with fresh, lively notes that are essential to the dish’s character.
Step 3: Stir in Sauces and Chili Paste
Pour in the low-sodium soy sauce and sesame oil, then add the roasted red chili paste. Stir everything together well and let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors meld into a rich, savory sauce that coats the meat beautifully. Adjust the chili paste to tame or turn up the heat as you prefer.
Step 4: Toss in the Coleslaw and Green Onions
Add the coleslaw mix and sliced green onions directly into the skillet. Toss to combine, letting the cabbage wilt slightly while still holding onto its crunch. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. This step brings freshness and texture contrast, making each bite interesting and satisfying.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top. These little seeds add a nutty crunch that elevates the entire dish. Now your Chicken Egg Roll Bowls: A Healthy and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Egg Roll Bowls: A Healthy and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes take this dish from simple to spectacular. Along with sesame seeds, try adding chopped cilantro for a fresh herbal note, a squeeze of lime juice for brightness, or even some crunchy fried shallots for an extra layer of texture. Each garnish personalizes your bowl, letting you tailor it to your mood.
Side Dishes
This bowl is hearty enough to be a full meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with light sides. Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice works well if you want more substance. A crisp cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar can brighten the palate, while simple miso soup offers a warm, comforting contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these bowls in colorful ceramic bowls or on large plates with separating compartments to highlight each element. You can also pack them into meal prep containers for easy lunch options. For a fun family-style approach, place all components on the table and let everyone create their own customized bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken egg roll bowls store beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers just as tasty as freshly made bowls.
Freezing
While the coleslaw mix maintains some texture, freezing is best done with just the cooked meat mixture. Freeze in portioned containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This helps preserve the freshness of the veggies when added after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your Chicken Egg Roll Bowls: A Healthy and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish Recipe gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. Add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil if the flavors feel a bit muted after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and offers a similar mild flavor and lean protein content. You can even try ground pork or beef if you want a richer taste.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
Yes! Swap the ground chicken for crumbled tofu, tempeh, or cooked lentils. Just be sure to adjust cooking times and seasoning to bring out the best flavors in your plant-based choice.
How spicy is this dish?
The roasted red chili paste adds a gentle heat, but it’s very customizable. Use less if you prefer mild flavors or add more if you like your meals with a good kick.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for meal prep?
Definitely! It holds up well in the fridge and is perfect for meal prep. Just add fresh garnishes right before serving to keep the textures fresh.
What can I substitute for coleslaw mix if I can’t find it?
Shredded cabbage and carrots from scratch work perfectly as a substitute. You can also mix in shredded Brussels sprouts for an unexpected twist.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that’s easy, nutritious, and bursting with flavor, this recipe is a keeper. The Chicken Egg Roll Bowls: A Healthy and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish Recipe brings together everything you want in a meal: comfortable familiarity, bright freshness, and the satisfaction of something homemade but incredibly tasty. Give it a try and watch this become one of your favorite go-to recipes!
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Chicken Egg Roll Bowls: A Healthy and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Chicken Egg Roll Bowls offer a healthy and flavorful twist on the classic egg roll by combining seasoned ground chicken with fresh coleslaw mix in a savory Asian-inspired sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is a perfect quick and easy weeknight dinner that delivers all the deliciousness of an egg roll without the wrapper.
Ingredients
Proteins and Oils
- 1 lb. ground chicken (or ground turkey, beef, or pork)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and ground pepper, to taste
Sauces and Seasonings
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon roasted red chili paste (or more if you like spice)
Vegetables and Garnish
- 4 cups coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the ground chicken.
- Cook the meat: Add 1 lb. of ground chicken to the skillet, seasoning with salt and ground pepper. Brown the meat thoroughly while breaking it apart until fully cooked.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and fresh grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant and aromatic.
- Incorporate sauces and spice: Mix in 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon roasted red chili paste. Let this simmer for a few minutes to meld all flavors together.
- Add vegetables: Toss 4 cups coleslaw mix and 1/4 cup sliced green onions into the skillet, stirring well. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the coleslaw is just wilted but still tender.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle sesame seeds over the dish, and serve hot as a delicious, low-carb alternative to egg rolls.
Notes
- You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey, beef, or pork depending on preference.
- Adjust the amount of roasted red chili paste according to your preferred spice level.
- For gluten-free option, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
- Coleslaw mix consists of shredded cabbage and carrots, optional to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
