If you love the savory, crispy flavors of a traditional egg roll but want something quicker, healthier, and without the deep frying, egg roll bowls with chicken and cabbage are your perfect solution. This deconstructed version delivers all the bold Asian-inspired flavors—ginger, garlic, sesame, and soy—in one skillet. It’s fast, low-carb, and packed with protein and veggies. Plus, cleanup is minimal, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
These egg roll bowls taste like your favorite takeout, but they’re made with simple, wholesome ingredients and take just 20 minutes from start to finish. Let’s dig into this flavorful, satisfying, and totally crave-worthy dish.
1. Why Egg Roll Bowls Are a Smart Weeknight Option
Deconstructed egg rolls may sound fancy, but they’re actually a budget-friendly, easy-to-make meal. Here’s why they belong in your regular dinner rotation:
Faster Than Takeout
With everything cooked in a single skillet, egg roll bowls are ready in 20 minutes or less. That’s faster than waiting for delivery.
Lower in Carbs and Calories
By skipping the deep-fried wrapper, you cut back on fat and carbs while keeping all the savory goodness.
Full of Flavor
Garlic, ginger, sesame oil, soy sauce—this meal is a flavor bomb. You get the signature taste of egg rolls without the extra effort.
Family-Friendly
Even picky eaters love this one. It’s warm, savory, and you can serve it with rice or noodles if needed.
2. Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a long grocery list to make this dish. Everything is pantry-friendly, affordable, and available at most stores.
Protein
- Ground chicken (or turkey, pork, or plant-based crumbles)
It cooks fast and absorbs all the seasoning beautifully.
Vegetables
- Green cabbage (shredded) – Adds crunch and bulk
- Carrots (shredded or julienned) – For sweetness and color
- Onion – Optional, for depth of flavor
- Green onions – Fresh, sharp garnish
- Garlic and fresh ginger – Essential aromatics
Sauces & Seasonings
- Soy sauce or tamari – For salty, umami flavor
- Rice vinegar – Adds acidity and brightness
- Sesame oil – Toasty richness
- Sriracha or chili garlic sauce – Optional, for heat
- Salt and pepper – To taste
Optional Add-ins
- Mushrooms – Add earthiness
- Bell peppers – Sweet crunch
- Water chestnuts – Crisp texture
- Cooked rice or cauliflower rice – If you want it more filling
3. How to Make Egg Roll Bowls with Chicken and Cabbage
This is a true one-skillet recipe that comes together in a flash. Here’s your step-by-step:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Once the chicken is cooked, add 2–3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger. Stir and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Stir in Vegetables
Add your shredded cabbage (about 4 cups), shredded carrots (1 cup), and diced onion if using. Stir everything together and cook for 4–5 minutes, or until the cabbage is softened but still has some bite.
Step 4: Add Sauces
Pour in 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Add sriracha or chili sauce to taste if you want a little heat.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Turn off the heat and stir in chopped green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately in bowls with your choice of extras like cooked rice, sesame seeds, or more chili sauce.
4. Variations and Add-Ons to Try
Egg roll bowls are endlessly customizable. Here are a few delicious spins:
Vegetarian Version
Swap ground chicken for tofu, tempeh, or plant-based crumbles. Crumble firm tofu and sauté with the same seasonings for a protein-rich alternative.
Korean-Inspired Bowl
Use gochujang (Korean chili paste) instead of sriracha, add kimchi, and serve with a fried egg on top for a Bibimbap-style twist.
Thai-Style Egg Roll Bowl
Add Thai basil, a dash of fish sauce (or vegan alternative), and finish with crushed peanuts and lime juice.
Sweet & Spicy
Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup along with the soy sauce to balance out the heat and give it a little sweet note.
With Noodles
Mix in cooked rice noodles or ramen for a heartier version. Toss the noodles in the sauce before adding them to the bowl.
5. Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Egg roll bowls are perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to keep them fresh and flavorful:
Refrigeration
- Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Keep green onions or garnishes separate until serving.
Reheating
- Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth.
- If adding rice, reheat both together for an all-in-one meal.
Freezing
- This dish can be frozen, though the cabbage will lose some crunch.
- Let it cool fully, freeze in containers, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
6. Serving Suggestions
This dish is satisfying on its own, but here are some ways to elevate it:
With Sides
- Steamed rice or quinoa
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
- Dumplings or potstickers as a fun pairing
- Spring rolls or cucumber salad for a fresh bite
With Toppings
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced avocado
- Crushed peanuts
- Extra hot sauce or a drizzle of tahini
- A fried egg on top for richness
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey or pork instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey, pork, or beef all work great. Use what you have on hand. Just adjust seasoning as needed since the flavors vary slightly by meat.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, and double-check that your sriracha or chili sauce is gluten-free.
3. Can I meal prep this in advance?
Absolutely. This recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for lunch or quick dinners.
4. What’s the best cabbage to use?
Green cabbage is the classic choice, but you can also use napa cabbage, savoy cabbage, or even coleslaw mix in a pinch.
5. Can I add rice or noodles?
Yes! Stir in cooked rice or noodles at the end, or serve the egg roll mixture on top. It makes the meal more filling.
6. How spicy is this dish?
That depends on how much chili sauce you add. You can keep it mild or make it as fiery as you like.
7. Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, but the texture of the cabbage may soften after thawing. Freeze in airtight containers and reheat with a splash of liquid.
8. Can I use a bagged coleslaw mix instead of shredding cabbage?
Definitely! Bagged coleslaw mix is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe.
9. Can I add more veggies?
Yes! Mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli all work great. Sauté them with the cabbage for extra bulk and nutrition.
10. Can I make it into a lettuce wrap?
Sure! Spoon the mixture into butter lettuce leaves for a lighter, low-carb version that’s perfect for lunch or appetizers.