Egg Roll Bowl (Ready in 15 Minutes)

Name: Egg Roll Bowl (Ready in 15 Minutes)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon avocado oil; 1 pound ground chicken; 9 ounces coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon ginger paste; ¼ cup soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce; ½ teaspoon sriracha (optional for heat); 3 green onions (sliced (plus more for garnish)); ½ teaspoon sesame seeds (garnish)

Try my Egg Roll in a Bowl for a quick and easy dinner tonight! This deconstructed version of a classic egg roll skips the deep frying but keeps all the savory elements, combining ground chicken, crisp veggies, and an umami-packed sauce. Serve it on its own for a low-carb meal, or pair it with rice or noodles for a heartier dish!

Jump to Recipe

Skillet of deconstructed egg roll ingredients.

Why This Recipe Works

This egg roll in a bowl is a lifesaver on busy weeknights—quick, easy, and packed with bold flavors. With just one pan and 15 minutes of cooking, you get all the savory, slightly sweet, umami-rich goodness of a classic egg roll (minus the hassle of wrapping and deep frying).

Plus, it’s naturally low-carb and easy to make gluten-free, so it’s a great fit for virtually any diet. But my favorite part? This recipe is completely customizable! Swap in ground turkey, pork, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Prefer extra heat? Add a splash of sriracha or chili flakes.

Serve it on its own for a light, satisfying meal, or bulk it up with steamed rice, cooked noodles, or even lettuce wraps. However you enjoy it, this dish is guaranteed to be a new go-to in your house!

Ingredients

Avocado Oil: I usually opt for avocado oil due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it perfect for stir-frying without overpowering the dish.
Ground Chicken: This lean protein absorbs flavors well, making it the perfect base.
Coleslaw Mix: This convenient, pre-cut mix of shredded cabbage and carrots will save you so much time! If using fresh cabbage, shred it finely for even cooking.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings bold, aromatic depth to the dish.
Ginger Paste: Adds warmth and a slight spice that complements the garlic and sesame oil. Freshly grated ginger works just as well.
Soy Sauce: The base of the sauce, providing salty, umami depth. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
Rice Vinegar: Adds a light tang, balancing the richness of the soy sauce and hoisin.
Sesame Oil: Adds nutty, toasty flavors. Use it sparingly (a little goes a long way!).
Hoisin Sauce: A slightly sweet, thick sauce that deepens the umami profile. Check for hoisin in the international aisle of most grocery stores or your local Asian food market.
Sriracha: This is optional, so adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Green Onions: Add color and a mild onion flavor. Use both the white and green parts.
Sesame Seeds: For a subtle crunch and nutty finish!

Instructions

Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high and add the avocado oil.
Cook the Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully browned.
Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger paste, sautéing until fragrant.
Cook the Coleslaw: Add the coleslaw mix, cooking for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage softens slightly but still has a slight crunch.
Mix in the Sauce: Pour in the soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, hoisin, Sriracha (if using), and green onions. Stir well to coat all ingredients, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken.
Serve & Garnish: Serve your egg roll in a bowl while hot, garnished with extra green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy it on its own, over rice, or with noodles!

Substitutions & Variations

Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, pork, beef, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option. Shrimp also works for a seafood twist!
Low-Carb: For a keto-friendly version, replace the hoisin sauce with coconut aminos and serve over cauliflower rice.
Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, and make sure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
Veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, snap peas, or zucchini all make great additions. Just sauté them with the cabbage!
Spicy: Increase the sriracha or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Extra Garnishes: Top with crushed peanuts, slivered almonds, or crispy fried shallots for added texture.

Storing & Reheating

This egg roll in a bowl is perfect for meal prep and stores incredibly well, making it an easy option for quick lunches and dinners.

Fridge: Let the leftovers cool completely before refrigerating. You can store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: You can also freeze the leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the mixture in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent drying out.

Expert Tips

Use a Wok or Large Skillet: A wide pan helps distribute heat evenly and prevents overcrowding, ensuring all ingredients cook properly.
Break Up the Meat Well: Use a wooden spoon or spatula to crumble the meat finely as it cooks for an even texture in every bite.
Balance the Sauce: Taste the mix before serving and adjust the soy sauce, hoisin, or vinegar as needed to get the right balance of salty, sweet, and tangy.

Chopsticks picking up ground chicken and veggies.

FAQs

How do I keep the cabbage from getting soggy?

Avoid overcooking it! Add the cabbage toward the end and stir-fry it for just a few minutes until it’s slightly softened but still has a slight bite.

What’s a good low-carb alternative to hoisin sauce?

You can try coconut aminos mixed with a bit of almond butter and a splash of rice vinegar for a similar sweet-savory flavor.

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

Absolutely! Store portions in meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners all week.

If you enjoyed this egg roll in a bowl recipe, take a peek at some more quick and easy Asian dinners like these:

If you try this Egg Roll in a Bowl, let me know what you think! Rate and review this recipe in the comments below. Don’t forget to take a picture and tag me on Instagram @lenaskitchenblog!