Chicken Cabbage Rolls Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy meal, chicken cabbage rolls are a fantastic option! These rolls are not only packed with flavor but also offer a fun way to enjoy your vegetables. Let’s dive into this recipe that combines the heartiness of cabbage with a savory chicken filling.

Ingredients
To make approximately 4 servings of chicken cabbage rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Cabbage Leaves: 8 medium leaves (preferably Savoy cabbage)
- Ground Chicken: 400 g (about 14 oz)
- Carrot: 1 small, grated
- Water Chestnuts: 225 g, drained and finely chopped
- Garlic: 1 clove, crushed
- Green Shallots: 3, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- Fresh Ginger: 2 tsp, finely grated
- Reduced Salt Soy Sauce: 60 ml (1/4 cup)
- Sesame Oil: 2 tsp
- Chicken Stock: 1 cup (250 ml)
- Fresh Red Chilli: 1 whole, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
- Sesame Seeds: 2 tsp, lightly toasted
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Carefully place the cabbage leaves in the boiling water for about 30 seconds, just until they soften slightly.
- Drain the leaves and immediately refresh them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Trim any thick parts of the leaves to make rolling easier.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
- Ground chicken
- Grated carrot
- Chopped water chestnuts
- Crushed garlic
- Two-thirds of the sliced green shallots
- Half of the grated ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil
Mix everything gently until well combined—be careful not to overmix as it can make the filling tough.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Lay out one cabbage leaf on a clean surface.
- Place about 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture at the stem end of the leaf.
- Fold in two opposite edges and roll tightly from the stem end to enclose the filling completely.
- Repeat this process with all leaves and filling.
Step 4: Cook the Rolls
- Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a slow cooker or a large pot.
- Pour in the chicken stock to keep them moist while cooking.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or on high for about 2 hours.
Step 5: Prepare the Dipping Sauce
While your rolls are cooking, mix together in a small bowl:
- Remaining sliced shallots
- Remaining ginger
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Sliced fresh chili (if using)
This will serve as a vibrant dipping sauce for your rolls.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, sprinkle your cabbage rolls with toasted sesame seeds and any remaining green shallots for garnish. Serve them hot with your homemade dipping sauce alongside steamed Asian greens or rice noodles for an extra touch.
Pro Tips
- Choosing Cabbage: Savoy cabbage is preferred for its tender leaves that roll easily without tearing. However, green cabbage works well too.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare these rolls in advance and refrigerate them before cooking. Just add an extra hour to your cooking time if they are cold.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy heat, feel free to add more chili or even some red pepper flakes into your filling.
Conclusion
Chicken cabbage rolls are not just a meal; they’re an experience! Each bite is filled with flavor and texture that will leave you satisfied yet wanting more. Enjoy making this dish as much as you enjoy eating it! Happy cooking!