As the sun streams through my kitchen window on a busy afternoon, the sharp crunch of cucumber slices fills the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. These Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups are my go-to recipe when I crave something light yet fulfilling. They’re not just a feast for the eyes; each bite is an explosion of flavor, mixing creamy chicken salad with the refreshing crispness of cool cucumbers.
Whether I’m prepping for a work lunch or hosting friends on a sunny weekend, these roll ups are the perfect healthy alternative to heavier meals or fast food takeout. They come together with ease, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to elevate their lunchtime experience without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they cleverly sneak in extra veggies, ensuring that enjoying a meal doesn’t mean sacrificing nutrition. Join me in whipping up this delightful dish that will leave everyone feeling satisfied and refreshed!
Why love Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups?
Simplicity: This recipe offers a straightforward assembly process, making it easy for beginners and busy cooks alike.
Flavor Fusion: The zesty chicken salad pairs perfectly with fresh cucumber, providing a burst of taste in every bite.
Versatile Options: Customize with different proteins or veggies to suit your taste, ensuring a new dish every time.
Healthier Choice: Low in carbs and packed with nutrients, these roll ups take the guilt out of lunch.
Crowd-Pleasing: They’re visually stunning and refreshing, making them a hit at gatherings or family meals.
Dive into this delicious recipe and discover a fresh lunch favorite!
Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Ingredients
For the Chicken Salad
- Cooked Shredded Chicken – Provides the main protein source for the salad; use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Red Onion – Adds flavor and crunch; soak in water for 10 minutes to reduce sharpness.
- Cilantro – Enhances flavor with fresh herb notes; can be substituted with parsley if needed.
- Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats; mash just before use to prevent browning.
- Cottage Cheese – Provides creaminess and a unique tang; use Greek yogurt for a lower-fat alternative.
- Mayonnaise – Adds richness to the dressing; use vegan mayo for a dairy-free option.
- Onion Powder – Extra flavor enhancer for the dressing; can be substituted with garlic powder.
- Limes – Provide acidity and brightness to the dressing; lemon juice can be used in place of lime juice.
For the Cucumber Base
- English Cucumbers – The base for the roll ups, offering a crunchy, refreshing exterior; Persian cucumbers can be used but require more for the same yield.
Optional Topping
- Everything Bagel Seasoning – A delightful sprinkle that adds flavor and texture; perfect for a finishing touch.
- Hot Sauce – Adds a spicy kick if you enjoy a bit of heat with your healthy Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups!
How to Make Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups
-
Prepare Chicken: Shred 1 lb of cooked chicken and finely dice the red onion. If needed, soak the onion in water for 10 minutes to mellow its flavor and then drain.
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, soaked onion, chopped cilantro, and cubed avocado. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
-
Make the Dressing: Blend cottage cheese, mayonnaise, onion powder, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a food processor until completely smooth. This dressing adds creaminess to your chicken salad.
-
Mix Dressing with Chicken: Pour the smooth dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
-
Slice Cucumbers: Thinly slice the English cucumbers and pat them dry to remove excess moisture. Arrange the slices overlapping on a piece of parchment paper, creating a surface for rolling.
-
Spread Cream Cheese: Evenly spread whipped cream cheese over the cucumber slices, which will help hold the roll ups together and add extra creaminess.
-
Add Chicken Salad: At the lower end of each cucumber slice, place a generous amount of the chicken salad mixture. Roll the cucumber tightly, starting from the end with the chicken salad.
-
Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to slice the completed roll ups into bite-sized pieces. Optional garnish with everything bagel seasoning and a drizzle of hot sauce for a flavorful kick!
Optional: Serve with mixed berries or a light tomato soup for a delightful meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a refreshing lunch with minimal effort on busy days. You can prepare the chicken salad mixture up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. To keep the cucumbers crisp, slice them just before assembly, as they tend to release moisture over time. If you’d like, you can also mix your creamy dressing a day ahead. When you’re ready to serve, promptly spread the cream cheese on the cucumber slices, add the chicken salad mixture, and roll them up for just as delicious results as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups?
Elevate your meal with delightful sides that perfectly complement these refreshing roll ups.
-
Mixed Berries: A sweet, juicy contrast that brings a pop of color and vibrant flavor to your plate.
-
Kettle Chips: Their crispiness and savory crunch provide a satisfying texture that balances the creamy roll ups beautifully.
-
Light Tomato Soup: The warmth of a delightful tomato soup adds a comforting element, making your lunch feel cozy and indulgent.
-
Quinoa Salad: Offering a wholesome bite, this nutty dish is full of fresh vegetables and keeps your meal light yet filling.
-
Greek Yogurt Dip: Creamy and tangy, this dip can add an adventurous twist to your meal, perfect for those who like a little extra flavor.
-
Sparkling Water with Mint: This refreshing drink brings a bubbly lift, enhancing the light and fresh nature of your Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups.
-
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: End on a sweet note with these indulgent treats; their rich chocolate pairs delightfully with the freshness of your meal.
Expert Tips for Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups
- Moisture Management: Ensure to pat the shredded chicken and remove cucumber seeds; this prevents sogginess and keeps the roll ups crisp.
- Perfectly Thin Slices: Aim for cucumber slices about 1/8 inch thick. This not only maintains the texture but also helps in rolling them without tearing.
- Chill Before Assembly: Refrigerate the chicken salad mixture for at least 30 minutes; this makes the filling easier to roll and enhances the flavors.
- Storage Solutions: Store chicken salad and cucumber slices separately in airtight containers. Assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh for your Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups.
- Garnish Wisely: Finish with everything bagel seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the taste and add an appealing touch.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups
- Room Temperature: These roll ups are best enjoyed fresh. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety.
- Fridge: Store leftover assembled Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. They taste best when fresh!
- Freezer: Freezing isn’t recommended for assembled roll ups due to cucumber’s high water content, which can turn mushy. Instead, freeze the chicken salad mixture for up to 2 months, defrosting when ready to serve.
- Reheating: If you have leftover chicken salad mixture, gently reheat it in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through before assembling with fresh cucumbers.
Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups to suit your taste or dietary needs!
-
Turkey Twist: Swap shredded chicken for cooked, shredded turkey to give a slightly different flavor while keeping it lean.
-
Seafood Delight: Use cooked shrimp instead of chicken for a delicious seafood spin that adds a touch of elegance.
-
Veggie Version: Substitute shredded chicken with chickpeas or black beans for a protein-packed vegetarian option bursting with flavor.
-
Cream Cheese Flavor: Experiment with flavored cream cheese like chive or garlic for an extra layer of taste that dazzles the palate.
-
Crunch Factor: Replace avocado with diced bell peppers or radishes to add extra crunch to each bite.
-
Herb Upgrade: Mix in fresh dill or basil instead of cilantro to infuse your roll ups with a refreshing herbaceous note.
-
Spice it Up: Add a splash of sriracha or chili flakes to your dressing for a spicy kick that wakes up the flavors.
-
Nutty Addition: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful texture contrast that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Recipe FAQs
What type of cucumbers should I use for these roll ups?
I recommend using English cucumbers for their thin skin and crunchy texture, which makes them perfect for roll ups! You can substitute with Persian cucumbers if necessary, but keep in mind that you’ll need more of them as they are smaller.
How can I tell if my avocado is ripe enough to use?
Absolutely! A ripe avocado should yield slightly to gentle pressure when you squeeze it. Look for a dark skin color; however, avoid any that have large dark spots all over, indicating overripeness. If your avocado feels hard, leave it at room temperature for a couple of days until it ripens.
How should I store leftover Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups?
To keep them fresh, store the assembled chicken salad roll ups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. If you’re concerned about sogginess, you can store the chicken salad mixture and cucumber slices separately, assembling them just before serving to maintain crispness.
Can I freeze the Chicken Salad for later use?
Definitely! While freezing the assembled roll ups is not advisable due to the water content in cucumbers causing them to become mushy, you can freeze the chicken salad mixture. Simply place it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost in the fridge overnight and assemble with fresh cucumbers.
What if my chicken salad turns out too dry?
Very! If you find your chicken salad is too dry, there are a couple of fixes. You can add a little more mayonnaise or cottage cheese to the mixture to achieve the right creaminess. Alternatively, a splash of chicken broth or a bit of lime juice can bring moisture back into the salad. Simply mix in until you reach your desired consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Indeed! These Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups are a fantastic low-carb option, as they replace bread with cucumbers, making them a guilt-free lunch. Plus, they’re packed with lean protein and healthy fats, fitting perfectly into a balanced diet. Just be sure to double-check the ingredients for any hidden carbs if you are following strict dietary guidelines.
Zesty Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups for a Refreshing Lunch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Shred the cooked chicken and finely dice the red onion. Soak the onion in water for 10 minutes to mellow its flavor, then drain.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, soaked onion, chopped cilantro, and cubed avocado. Stir gently to mix.
- Blend cottage cheese, mayonnaise, onion powder, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a food processor until smooth.
- Pour the smooth dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Thinly slice the English cucumbers and pat them dry. Arrange cucumber slices overlapping on parchment paper.
- Spread whipped cream cheese over the cucumber slices to help hold the roll ups together.
- At the lower end of each cucumber slice, place a generous amount of chicken salad mixture and roll tightly.
- Slice the roll ups into bite-sized pieces and garnish with everything bagel seasoning and hot sauce if desired.