KOHLRABI CHICKEN: CRAZY GOOD

I’ll never forget the first time my grandmother served kohlrabi. I was hesitant, to say the least, but one bite of her creation, transformed into something magical, was enough to change my mind forever. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Crunchy Kohlrabi & Chicken Delight – A Flavor-Packed Feast you’ll ever make! Get ready to experience a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more.

Crunchy Kohlrabi & Chicken Delight: A Flavor-Packed Adventure

Have you ever found yourself staring at a kohlrabi in the grocery store, wondering what on earth to do with it? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! This often-overlooked vegetable is a nutritional powerhouse, and when prepared correctly, it can be incredibly delicious. And pairing it with tender, juicy chicken? Well, that’s just a match made in culinary heaven. This Crunchy Kohlrabi & Chicken Delight recipe is my go-to for a healthy, satisfying, and downright exciting meal. Get ready to ditch the boring weeknight dinners and embrace a flavor explosion!

Why Kohlrabi? Why Chicken?

Kohlrabi, often called a German turnip, has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that’s somewhere between a turnip and a cabbage. It’s incredibly versatile and can be eaten raw or cooked. It’s also packed with vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. Chicken, of course, is a fantastic source of lean protein and adds a satisfying heartiness to the dish. Together, they create a balanced and nutritious meal that’s both delicious and good for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Don’t be intimidated by the list – most of these are pantry staples!

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 medium kohlrabi bulbs, peeled and cut into matchsticks
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions: From Prep to Plate

Now for the fun part! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious Crunchy Kohlrabi & Chicken Delight on the table in no time.

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken cubes with soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, making it even more delicious.
2. Prep the Kohlrabi and Vegetables: While the chicken is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Peel the kohlrabi and cut it into matchsticks. I find it easiest to use a mandoline for this, but a sharp knife works just as well. Thinly slice the onion and red bell pepper. Mince the garlic. Having everything prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process much smoother.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Add the Kohlrabi and Bell Pepper: Add the kohlrabi matchsticks and sliced red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 5-7 minutes, or until the kohlrabi is tender-crisp. You want the kohlrabi to retain a bit of its crunch – that’s what makes this dish so delightful!
6. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a final stir to combine. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions and sesame seeds. I love serving this over rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.

Success Tips for the Perfect Crunchy Kohlrabi & Chicken Delight

Want to guarantee a perfect result every time? Here are my top tips for making the most amazing Crunchy Kohlrabi & Chicken Delight!

• Don’t Overcook the Kohlrabi: The key to this dish is the “crunch” in Crunchy Kohlrabi & Chicken Delight! Be careful not to overcook the kohlrabi. It should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
• Marinate the Chicken: Marinating the chicken, even for just 15 minutes, makes a huge difference in flavor and tenderness. The longer you marinate it, the more flavorful it will be.
• Prep Your Ingredients: Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking will make the process much smoother and more efficient.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, feel free to omit the red pepper flakes. If you like it extra spicy, add a pinch more!
• Get Creative with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as carrots, broccoli, or snap peas. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Add Some Heat: For an extra kick, add a tablespoon of sriracha or gochujang to the marinade.
• Use Different Vegetables: Experiment with different vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bok choy.
• Serve it Over Noodles: Instead of rice or quinoa, serve this dish over your favorite noodles, such as udon or soba noodles.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts or cashews over the dish for added crunch and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Crunchy Kohlrabi & Chicken Delight is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

• Serve it over rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans.
• Serve it with a simple salad for a light and refreshing meal.
• Use it as a filling for lettuce wraps for a healthy and low-carb option.

Other Delicious Kohlrabi Recipes

If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy kohlrabi, here are a few of my other favorite recipes:

If you’re looking for a crispy and flavorful side dish, you absolutely HAVE to try my CRISPY KOHLRABI FRIES OBSESSION. They’re addictive! Another great option is PARMESAN ROASTED KOHLRABI for a savory and cheesy twist.

And while we’re talking about delicious meals, have you tried my STREET CORN CHICKEN RICE BOWL? It’s another flavor-packed favorite that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

For a healthier take on fries, check out these CRISPY, HEALTHY KOHLRABI FRIES. They’re a guilt-free way to enjoy a classic comfort food. And don’t forget about a refreshing KOHLRABI SALAD for a light and vibrant side.

If you’re looking to pair your kohlrabi creation with another chicken dish, you can never go wrong with Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites & Pasta. It’s a quick, simple, and satisfying meal that complements the freshness of the kohlrabi perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few minutes, or stir-fry in a skillet until heated through. The kohlrabi may lose a bit of its crunch upon reheating, but it will still be delicious!

The Magic of Kohlrabi: More Than Just a Vegetable

Kohlrabi is more than just a vegetable; it’s an adventure waiting to happen in your kitchen. Its unique flavor and texture make it a versatile ingredient that can be used in countless dishes. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things with kohlrabi – you might just discover your new favorite vegetable!

Nutritional Benefits of Kohlrabi and Chicken

Beyond its delicious flavor, this Crunchy Kohlrabi & Chicken Delight is packed with nutritional benefits. Kohlrabi is an excellent source of vitamin C, which is essential for boosting your immune system. It’s also a good source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel full and satisfied. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is crucial for building and repairing tissues.

This meal is a well-rounded and nutritious option that will nourish your body and leave you feeling great. It’s a win-win situation!

Tips for Buying the Best Kohlrabi

To ensure you’re getting the best quality kohlrabi, here are a few tips to keep in mind when shopping:

• Choose Small to Medium-Sized Bulbs: Smaller kohlrabi bulbs tend to be more tender and flavorful than larger ones.
• Look for Firm Bulbs: The kohlrabi should feel firm and heavy for its size. Avoid bulbs that are soft or have blemishes.
• Check the Leaves: If the kohlrabi still has its leaves attached, make sure they are fresh and green.
• Consider Organic: If possible, opt for organic kohlrabi to avoid pesticides and other harmful chemicals.

Making it a Meal Prep Dream

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! You can easily make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week. Simply store the cooked chicken and kohlrabi in separate containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, reheat and serve over rice or quinoa. This is a great way to ensure you have a healthy and delicious meal ready to go, even on your busiest days.

The best part? The flavors often meld together even more beautifully overnight, making it even tastier the next day!

So there you have it! My ultimate guide to making the most delicious Crunchy Kohlrabi & Chicken Delight. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Happy cooking!