Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe

If you’re craving all the bold, comforting flavors of your favorite takeout without all the fuss and carbs, you’re going to absolutely love this Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe. It’s everything you adore about a classic egg roll, but without the wrapper—packed with juicy ground chicken, vibrant cabbage, and that perfect punch of garlic and ginger. This dish is a sumptuous, quick, and healthy meal that comes together in just minutes and makes you feel like you’re indulging in something truly special every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe calls for a handful of incredibly simple, fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role in nailing that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the savory ground chicken to the crunchy cabbage and bright carrots, every item matters.

• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided: Helps cook the chicken and veggies to a perfect golden finish with a subtle richness.
• 1 pound ground chicken: Lean and flavorful, provides a tender, juicy protein base to the dish.
• 5 cups cabbage, thinly sliced: Adds fantastic crunch and a mild sweetness, essential for that “egg roll” vibe.
• 1 cup carrots, julienned: Brings vibrancy and a fresh bite with a subtle natural sweetness.
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced: Offers a warm, spicy aroma and depth that makes the dish sing.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: A bold essential that infuses the dish with that unmistakable savory punch.
• 2 tbsp coconut aminos or low sodium soy sauce: Delivers the perfect salty, slightly sweet umami that ties everything together.
• 2 tsp sesame oil: Adds a toasty, nutty fragrance that elevates every bite.
• 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar: Lends a subtle tang that brightens the flavors beautifully.
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce: A touch of sweet and tangy complexity that mimics classic egg roll dipping sauce flavors.
• 2 tsp chili garlic sauce (or more to taste): Provides a fiery kick that wakes up your taste buds and balances the richness.
• Sesame seeds for serving, if desired: A lovely crunch and nutty finish when sprinkled on top.
• Green onions for serving, if desired: Freshness and a pop of color that makes every forkful feel special.

How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl

Step 1: Brown the Ground Chicken

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the ground chicken, breaking it up gently as it cooks. You want it to brown nicely without drying out—this should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Once it’s cooked through and no longer pink, drain off any excess grease, then transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside. This step lays the savory foundation of the dish and ensures your protein stays juicy.

Step 2: Sauté the Cabbage and Carrots

Next, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Toss in the thinly sliced cabbage and julienned carrots. Cook them over high heat until they start to get golden and tender, around 4 to 5 minutes. The high heat caramelizes the edges and softens the veggies without turning them mushy, preserving that perfect texture that makes Egg Roll in a Bowl so addictive.

Step 3: Add Fresh Aromatics

Once the veggies are looking golden and tender, stir in the minced ginger and garlic. These powerful flavor bombs only take about a minute to release their fragrant goodness, so keep things moving fast to avoid burning. Their warmth and depth are what bring that classic egg roll soul right into the pan.

Step 4: Combine and Flavor

Return the browned ground chicken to the skillet. Now it’s time to pour in the coconut aminos (or soy sauce), sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, hoisin sauce, and chili garlic sauce. Toss everything together so that every bit of cabbage, carrot, and chicken is perfectly coated in the rich, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce. This melding of flavors is the heart of the Egg Roll in a Bowl – the taste you’ll keep coming back for.

Step 5: Serve Hot and Garnish

Once everything is well combined and heated through, your Egg Roll in a Bowl is ready to enjoy. For an extra special touch, sprinkle on some sesame seeds and sliced green onions. These add a lovely pop of texture and fresh vibrancy that makes the dish feel just right.

How to Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl

Garnishes

Garnishing your Egg Roll in a Bowl with sesame seeds and green onions is like adding the final brush strokes to a masterpiece. These simple toppers bring an elevated crunch and a burst of fresh, oniony flavor that complements the richness of the stir-fry perfectly. If you want to get fancy, a drizzle of sriracha or a squeeze of lime can add an exciting twist.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own as a low-carb dinner option, but if you want to make it a full feast, consider pairing it with steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter carb count. A crisp Asian-inspired cucumber salad or quick pickled veggies create a refreshing counterbalance to the heartiness of the Egg Roll in a Bowl.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress? Serve the Egg Roll in a Bowl in individual small cast iron skillets or over a bed of crispy lettuce leaves for a fun, DIY wrap option. You can also make it a festive meal by offering bowls at a casual party with various garnishes and hot sauces on the side so everyone can customize to their liking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Egg Roll in a Bowl keeps exceptionally well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated. Just be sure to cool it before sealing to keep the cabbage crisp.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, but since cabbage can change texture a bit after freezing, it’s best to freeze portions quickly in freezer-safe containers. It should last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

The best way to reheat Egg Roll in a Bowl is in a skillet over medium heat to keep the veggies from getting soggy. Stir frequently until warmed through. A quick zap in the microwave works too, but the stove preserves texture and flavor best.

FAQs

Can I use other meats instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! Ground pork, turkey, or even beef can be substituted seamlessly in this Egg Roll in a Bowl. Each will give a slightly different flavor profile but maintain the tasty heart of the dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! By using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and checking that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free, this Egg Roll in a Bowl is naturally gluten-free and perfect for most dietary needs.

Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?

Definitely. Swap the ground chicken for firm tofu or tempeh crumbles. Use tamari or coconut aminos for sauces, and you’ll have a plant-based version that’s just as satisfying.

How spicy is the chili garlic sauce in this dish?

It adds a moderate kick, but you can always adjust the amount to your heat preference. Start with less if you’re sensitive, and add more gradually for that fiery punch you love.

What’s the best way to slice the cabbage?

Thin slicing is key to getting that tender, slightly crisp texture that mimics the classic egg roll filling. A sharp knife or mandoline slicer works best to achieve consistent thin ribbons.

Final Thoughts

The Egg Roll in a Bowl is one of those magical recipes that brings big, comforting flavors to your table without any complicated steps or extra carbs. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a quick, nourishing meal that’s delightfully tasty. Give it a try—you’ll soon understand why this dish has become a go-to favorite for so many food lovers like us!

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