Name: Chicken Roll
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1 cup cooked rice (optional); 8–10 cabbage leaves; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp hoisin sauce or sweet chili sauce; 1 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 2 green onions, chopped; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

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Chicken Rolls wrapped in tender cabbage leaves are a flavorful, nutritious, and eye-catching meal that blends savory chicken filling with a light, wholesome exterior. This dish combines the texture of juicy minced chicken, rice, and aromatic seasonings wrapped neatly in blanched cabbage and topped with a sweet and tangy sauce. Ideal for lunch or dinner, this recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional wraps and a great way to enjoy a complete, balanced meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Rolls are not only delicious but also visually appealing and fun to prepare. The juicy chicken filling inside soft, cooked cabbage creates a satisfying texture and flavor contrast. It’s a great low-carb option and a creative way to add more vegetables to your diet. The rolls can be made ahead and stored easily, making them perfect for meal prep or a stress-free weeknight dinner. Plus, the sauce adds an irresistible finish that ties everything together.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground chicken
Cooked rice (optional)
Cabbage leaves
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Soy sauce
Hoisin sauce or sweet chili sauce
Olive oil or sesame oil
Salt
Black pepper
Green onions, chopped
Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the cabbage leaves and blanch them for 2–3 minutes until they are pliable. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
Add ground chicken and cook until browned. Stir in soy sauce, hoisin or chili sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mixture is fully cooked and flavorful. Let it cool slightly.
Mix in cooked rice and chopped green onions (optional) into the chicken mixture.
Place a spoonful of the filling onto each cabbage leaf and roll it up like a burrito, tucking in the sides.
Arrange the rolls in a baking dish. Brush or spoon extra sauce over the top.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–5
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add sriracha or chili flakes to the filling.
Vegetarian Roll: Replace chicken with cooked lentils or tofu.
Asian-Inspired: Use ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil with a teriyaki glaze.
European Twist: Use tomato sauce and herbs like oregano and basil for a stuffed cabbage feel.
Cheesy Option: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan inside the filling before rolling.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. You can also microwave them on medium heat for 1–2 minutes per roll. These rolls also freeze well—wrap individually and store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls and refrigerate them up to a day ahead before baking.

Can I freeze chicken rolls?

Absolutely. Freeze them after assembling and bake straight from frozen, adding extra bake time.

What type of cabbage should I use?

Savoy or green cabbage works best because the leaves are tender yet durable enough to wrap.

Do I have to use rice in the filling?

No. You can skip the rice for a low-carb version or substitute with quinoa or cauliflower rice.

What sauces work best on top?

Hoisin, teriyaki, sweet chili, or even a garlic soy glaze complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes. Shred leftover cooked chicken and mix it with the seasonings and a little sauce to bind it.

How do I prevent the rolls from falling apart?

Make sure the cabbage is blanched until soft and roll tightly, securing the ends like a burrito.

Can I steam instead of bake?

Yes, steaming works well. Steam the rolls in a covered pan for 10–15 minutes.

Are these rolls gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and sauces to make this recipe gluten-free.

What side dishes go well with this?

Serve with a light cucumber salad, steamed rice, or miso soup for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Chicken Rolls wrapped in cabbage are a flavorful, health-conscious dish that delivers comfort and taste in every bite. They’re easy to prepare, customizable, and make for a lovely presentation. Whether you’re looking for a lighter dinner, meal prep idea, or a creative way to use ground chicken, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Serve them warm with your favorite sauce and garnish for a nutritious, satisfying meal.

Chicken Roll

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Chicken Rolls wrapped in tender cabbage leaves are a nutritious and flavorful dish featuring a savory chicken filling with rice and aromatic seasonings, topped with a tangy sauce. A wholesome, low-carb meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4–5 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Asian

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch cabbage leaves for 2–3 minutes until pliable. Drain and set aside.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
Add ground chicken, cooking until browned. Stir in soy sauce, hoisin or chili sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook until fully done. Let cool slightly.
Mix in cooked rice and chopped green onions (if using).
Place a spoonful of the filling on each cabbage leaf. Roll tightly, tucking in the sides like a burrito.
Arrange the rolls in a baking dish and brush or spoon extra sauce over the top.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.