The other day, as I rummaged through my fridge, I found a beautiful English cucumber just waiting to take center stage in my lunch. With its cool, crisp crunch, it sparked a delightful idea—a refreshing Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Up that’s perfect for those lazy afternoons when you want something light yet satisfying.
Imagine the burst of flavor from seasoned shredded chicken mingling with creamy avocado and vibrant cilantro, all wrapped in a crisp cucumber slice. Not only is this dish a feast for the eyes, but it’s also gluten-free and low-carb, making it a clean, guilt-free lunch option. Best of all, these rolls are super easy to prepare, whether you’re in the mood for meal prep or simply want to impress your friends at a gathering. Let’s dive into this refreshing recipe that promises to liven up your lunchtime routine!
Why are Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups irresistible?
Flavorful Combinations: These rolls blend juicy, seasoned chicken with creamy avocado and bright cilantro, creating a taste explosion with every bite.
Gluten-Free Delight: Perfect for those avoiding gluten, this recipe caters to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Effortless Preparation: With simple steps, even novice cooks can whip up this dish in no time.
Meal Prep Approved: Great for preparing ahead, these rolls stay fresh and crispy when stored separately.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve them at gatherings, and watch them vanish; they’re perfect for impressing guests or feeding the family!
Customizable Options: Add your favorite ingredients like bell peppers or nuts for a personal flair!
Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Ingredients
For the Chicken Salad
- Cooked Shredded Chicken – Main protein source; use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cooked breasts for freshness.
- Red Onion – Adds a sharp, savory flavor; soak in water to mellow the taste and drain thoroughly.
- Cilantro – Fresh herb for brightness and flavor; substitute with parsley if preferred.
- Avocado – Provides creaminess and healthy fats; mash just before combining to prevent browning.
For the Dressing
- Cottage Cheese – Creamy base for the dressing that adds protein; drain to minimize moisture.
- Mayonnaise – Enhances the creaminess of the dressing; substitute with yogurt for a lighter option.
- Onion Powder – Adds depth to the seasoning mix; use garlic powder for a different flavor profile.
- Limes – Provides acidity and brightness to the dressing; fresh juice is best for flavor.
For the Rolls
- English Cucumbers – Ideal for rolling, with fewer seeds and thinner skin; substitute with Persian cucumbers if necessary.
How to Make Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups
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Prepare Chicken Salad:
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, drained red onion, chopped cilantro, and cubed avocado. Mix until well integrated, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor. -
Make Dressing:
Blend cottage cheese, mayonnaise, onion powder, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a food processor until smooth. Pour this creamy dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently to combine. -
Slice Cucumbers:
Thinly slice the English cucumbers (about 1/8 inch) using a sharp knife or mandoline. Dry the slices with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, essential for a clean roll-up. -
Assemble Rolls:
On each cucumber slice, spread 2 tablespoons of cream cheese. Then, add a generous spoonful of the chicken salad mixture, roll tightly, and slice into bite-sized pieces. -
Finish:
Just before serving, top your rolls with everything bagel seasoning and drizzle with chipotle hot sauce for an added kick. Enjoy the delicious crunch!
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of additional cilantro for extra freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the chicken salad filling up to 2 days in advance; simply combine shredded chicken, red onion, cilantro, avocado, and dressing, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, to keep your rolls fresh and crispy, it’s best to slice the cucumbers and assemble the rolls just before serving. This way, you prevent any moisture from making the cucumbers soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy, just spread the cream cheese on the cucumber slices, fill them with the chilled chicken salad, and roll them up for a delightful, quick meal!
What to Serve with Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups?
Elevate your light lunch experience by complementing these refreshing rolls with vibrant, balance-boosting sides that echo their crisp flavors.
- Mixed Berry Bowl: A medley of juicy strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a sweet, tart contrast that brightens up your meal.
- Side Salad: A crisp green salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette enhances the freshness of the rolls, infusing your plate with colorful vitality.
- Kettle Chips: The crunchy texture of kettle-cooked chips is the perfect accompaniment, providing a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the creamy filling of the rolls.
- Pickled Vegetables: A tangy selection of pickles or pickled jalapeños will add a zingy flavor profile, balancing the rich and creamy elements of your chicken salad.
- Lemonade: A refreshing glass of homemade lemonade brings a sweet and tangy brightness that perfectly contrasts the savory flavors of the rolls.
- Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layer coconut yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a sweet indulgence that resonates with the wholesome theme of your dish.
- Herbed Quinoa: This light side dish is nutty and fluffy, providing a wholesome grain option that ties together the freshness of the cucumber rolls with a hint of earthiness.
- Crispy Tofu Bites: Seasoned and baked tofu bites add a protein-packed crunch, enhancing the meal’s satisfaction while complementing its lightness.
These pairing ideas will not only elevate your mealtime but also create a delightful dining experience your friends and family will cherish!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups
Fridge: Keep assembled rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 hours. Note that over time, cucumbers may soften, altering the crispness.
Meal Prep: Prepare chicken salad up to 2 days in advance and store in the fridge. Keep cucumbers separate until ready to assemble for maximum freshness.
Freezer: These rolls are not recommended for freezing, as the cucumber will lose its texture. For best results, enjoy fresh!
Reheating: If you have leftover chicken salad, it can be gently reheated for a different meal, but avoid reheating the cucumber.
Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Variations
Feel free to make these delightful rolls your own with these fun twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cottage cheese and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives like cashew cream and dairy-free yogurt, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
Elevate the recipe further by adding a dash of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor boost without the dairy. -
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha into the chicken salad for a zesty kick.
The heat will complement the creamy avocado beautifully, adding an exciting layer of flavor that spice lovers will adore. -
Crunchy Texture: Toss in some crushed nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for a delightful crunch.
This added texture will make each bite even more satisfying, transforming your rolls into gourmet bites! -
Herb Infusion: Swap cilantro for fresh basil or dill for a different flavor profile.
The herb swap creates a refreshing and aromatic twist, making your rolls feel like a seasonal delight. -
Fruit Fusion: Add diced apples, grapes, or even dried cranberries to the chicken salad for a touch of sweetness.
This unexpected addition will surprise your palate and balance the savory chicken perfectly. -
Texture Variation: Mix in some crispy bacon bits or fried shallots for added flavor and crunch.
These elements will turn your rolls into a savory, hearty treat that’s hard to resist. -
Zesty Dressing: Instead of lime juice, use lemon or orange juice for a different citrusy zing.
The bright acidity will invigorate the rolls, making them feel like a light celebration on your taste buds.
Expert Tips for Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups
- Slice Evenly: Ensure cucumber slices are of uniform thickness for better rolling. A mandoline can help achieve perfect precision.
- Drain Ingredients: Pat dry the shredded chicken and drained red onion to avoid excess moisture, ensuring a sturdy roll-up.
- Chill the Filling: Refrigerate the chicken salad mixture for at least 30 minutes before assembling to help it hold its shape better.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the filling before rolling; feel free to adjust lime juice, salt, or pepper to suit your flavor preferences.
- Serve Fresh: These Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups are best enjoyed immediately after assembly for optimal crispness.
Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cucumbers for my Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using English cucumbers because they have fewer seeds and thinner skin, which makes them perfect for rolling. Look for cucumbers that are firm, with smooth skin and no dark spots or blemishes.
How should I store the Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups?
I suggest keeping the assembled rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours for the best taste. However, to maintain freshness, it’s wise to keep the chicken salad separate from the cucumbers until you are ready to enjoy your rolls.
Can I prepare the chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad mixture up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The key is to keep the cucumbers separate until you’re ready to make the rolls, to ensure they remain crisp and delicious!
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Can I freeze Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups?
Unfortunately, these rolls aren’t suitable for freezing. The cucumber will lose its crisp texture when thawed. Instead, I recommend enjoying them fresh. If you have leftover chicken salad, you can refrigerate it and use it in another meal.
What should I do if the rolls are falling apart during assembly?
Keep a couple of things in mind. First, ensure your cucumber slices are about 1/8 inch thick and dry them thoroughly with paper towels before rolling. Additionally, chilling the chicken salad mixture for at least 30 minutes makes it easier to handle and form into the rolls without falling apart. If issues persist, try using a larger cucumber slice or a wrap instead!
Are there any dietary considerations for the Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups?
Yes, these rolls are gluten-free and low-carb, making them a great option for people with specific dietary needs. If you have allergies, feel free to substitute ingredients—like using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option or omitting the red onion if needed. Just make sure to adjust spices to match!
Delicious Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups for a Fresh Lunch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, drained red onion, chopped cilantro, and cubed avocado. Mix until well integrated.
- Blend cottage cheese, mayonnaise, onion powder, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a food processor until smooth. Pour over the chicken mixture and stir gently.
- Thinly slice the English cucumbers (about 1/8 inch) and dry the slices with paper towels.
- On each cucumber slice, spread 2 tablespoons of cream cheese. Add a spoonful of the chicken salad mixture, roll tightly, and slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Top with everything bagel seasoning and drizzle with chipotle hot sauce before serving.
