Why I Love This Recipe
This Stir-Fried Coleslaw with Ground Chicken is one of my go-to weeknight meals because it’s quick, flavor-packed, and healthy! I love how the shredded cabbage and carrots provide the perfect texture, while the soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger bring a punch of savory flavor. The ground chicken is lean and easy to cook, and the dish is so versatile—you can swap in different proteins like turkey, pork, or shrimp depending on what you have on hand. It’s a simple recipe that’s light on calories but full of deliciousness!
Stir-Fried Coleslaw with Ground Chicken
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
This simple stir-fry combines lean protein with crunchy coleslaw mix, creating a flavorful dish that’s perfect for a healthy dinner or meal prep. The combination of ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil enhances the flavor while keeping the dish light and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 1 tsp minced ginger
- 4 1/2 cups packaged coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots (additional)
- 3 medium cooked scallions (chopped)
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 pound ground chicken breast (can substitute ground turkey, turkey sausage, or pork)
Instructions
- Cook the Protein:
In a medium non-stick skillet, brown the ground chicken (or your choice of protein) over medium-high heat. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. - Add the Ginger:
Once the meat is fully cooked, add the minced ginger to the skillet. Stir well to incorporate the ginger, letting it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. - Add Soy Sauce and Sesame Oil:
Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing them thoroughly with the meat and ginger. - Add the Coleslaw:
Add the packaged coleslaw mix to the skillet and stir it to coat the cabbage and carrots with the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften. - Add Shredded Carrots:
Add the shredded carrots and stir until they’re evenly coated with the sauce. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Add Scallions and Cook:
Stir in the chopped scallions and cook everything on medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes, until the coleslaw mix has reduced by half and is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately as is or over rice for a more substantial meal.
Tips and Tricks
- Substitute Proteins: This recipe is versatile! You can easily swap ground turkey, pork, or shrimp for the chicken depending on your preference. Adjust cooking times if needed—shrimp, for example, cooks quickly (about 3-4 minutes).
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt content. You can also substitute tamari for a gluten-free version.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for more color and nutrients.
- For a Spicy Kick: Add a splash of chili garlic sauce or sriracha if you like a bit of heat in your dish.
Notes
- Freestyle Smart Points (Weight Watchers):
- 0 Smart Points (with chicken or shrimp)
- 6 Smart Points (with turkey sausage)
- Meal Prep: This dish is great for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat when ready to eat.
- Storage and Reheating:
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or on the stovetop until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of oil instead of sesame oil?
Yes, you can use olive oil or vegetable oil, but sesame oil gives a distinct flavor that complements the ginger and soy sauce well. If you don’t have sesame oil, you could add a little extra soy sauce for flavor.
2. Can I use a pre-cooked protein?
Yes! If you’re using leftover chicken or turkey, simply stir it in with the soy sauce and sesame oil and heat through before adding the vegetables.
3. Can I freeze this stir-fry?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the stir-fry for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure to heat it thoroughly. The texture of the vegetables may change slightly after freezing, but the flavors will still be delicious!
4. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add chopped fresh chili peppers or chili garlic sauce to the stir-fry for an extra kick. Adjust the amount based on your preferred spice level.
Why This Recipe Works
This stir-fry is the perfect combination of healthy, crunchy vegetables and savory protein with just the right amount of flavor from soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger. It’s a one-pan meal that comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep. The recipe is also flexible enough to be adapted with different proteins or additional veggies. Plus, it’s light on calories while being full of flavor, making it an ideal healthy option for anyone watching their waistline
