There’s something undeniably satisfying about enjoying a meal that’s both light and flavorful, especially when those pesky mid-afternoon slumps threaten to derail your day. I found myself wrestling with my lunch choices after a week of indulgent takeout, so I turned to a brilliant idea—Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups. This recipe combines crisp cucumbers with a creamy, zesty chicken salad that’s packed with fresh herbs and healthy fats. Not only are these rolls a feast for the eyes, but they also offer a refreshing crunch that feels indulgent without the guilt.
Perfect for busy weekdays or a delightful weekend picnic, these roll ups are easy to prepare in advance and can be customized to suit your taste buds. Imagine a light meal that fits easily into your lunch box, whether you’re at the office or enjoying a quick bite at home. Join me on this culinary adventure as I share how to create the best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups, an effortless choice that promises to invigorate your lunchtime routine!
Why are Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups a must-try?
Freshness in Every Bite: Delight in the crisp, refreshing taste of cucumbers paired with a zesty chicken salad—perfect for a light lunch.
Customizable Fillings: Switch up the ingredients to match your cravings, making these roll ups incredibly versatile for any palate.
Easy and Quick Prep: With minimal effort, you can whip up these roll ups in no time, perfect for busy days or leisurely weekends.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve them at gatherings or picnics, and watch as they disappear—everyone will love these tasty bites!
Low-Carb Goodness: Enjoy a guilt-free meal that’s low in carbs but high in flavor, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious eaters.
Elevate your lunch game and explore more delicious options like these Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups for a fresh spin on your midday meals!
Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Ingredients
Unleash the flavors in these delightful roll ups!
For the Chicken Salad
• Cooked Chicken (1 lb) – Main protein source; rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even easier.
• Red Onion (1/2) – Adds flavor and crunch; soak in water for 10 minutes to mellow its taste.
• Fresh Cilantro (handful) – Enhances flavor with fresh herbal notes; perfect for a bright lift.
• Avocado (1) – Provides a creamy texture and healthy fats; add just before assembly to prevent browning.
• Cottage Cheese (5 tbsp) – A lighter base for creamy dressing; drain it for 30 minutes to reduce moisture.
• Mayonnaise (3 tbsp) – Adds richness to the chicken salad; feel free to substitute with Greek yogurt for fewer calories.
• Onion Powder (1 tbsp) – Infuses extra depth of flavor into the mix.
• Lime Juice (from 3 limes) – Provides a zesty acidity that brightens the salad; fresh is best!
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for rounding out the flavors; season to your taste.
For the Roll Up Assembly
• English Cucumbers (large) – The primary ingredient for rolling; slice into thin, even strips for the best results.
• Whipped Cream Cheese (2 tbsp) – Holds everything together beautifully; spread it on cucumber slices for added richness.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning (to taste) – Optional but highly recommended for a flavor boost!
• Chipotle Hot Sauce (to taste) – Add a drizzle for a touch of heat, elevating the flavor profile of your Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups.
These ingredients come together to create a unique and delicious lunch that will leave you refreshed and satisfied!
How to Make Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups
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Prep Chicken Salad Mixture: Start by shredding your cooked chicken, soaking and draining the red onion for that perfect crunch. Mix all these ingredients in a bowl with chopped cilantro and avocado until well combined.
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Make Dressing: Blend cottage cheese, mayonnaise, onion powder, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a food processor until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed for your perfect flavor.
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Prepare Cucumbers: Thinly slice your English cucumbers into 1/8 inch thick strips and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps with rolling and keeps them crispy.
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Assemble Roll Ups: Spread a tablespoon of whipped cream cheese onto each cucumber slice. Layer on a generous amount of the chicken salad mixture, topping it off with extra onions and avocado. Roll them tightly from the bottom for the best results.
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Slice & Serve: Once assembled, slice the rolls into bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning and drizzle a little chipotle hot sauce on top for a delightful kick. Enjoy your fresh roll ups!
Optional: Serve with a side of mixed berries for a refreshing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups
- Room Temperature: Enjoy your Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups fresh, ideally within 30 minutes of making them for the best crunch and flavor.
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, keep cucumber strips and filling separate until serving.
- Freezer: Freezing is not recommended, as cucumbers can become mushy once thawed. Instead, prepare the chicken salad filling ahead of time and assemble roll ups fresh.
- Reheating: These roll ups are best served cold; simply enjoy them straight from the fridge without reheating for that refreshing crunch!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weekdays! You can prepare the chicken salad mixture and refrigerate it up to 3 days in advance; just be sure to keep the avocado separate until you’re ready to assemble to prevent browning. The sliced cucumbers can be prepped up to 24 hours ahead as well—just pat them dry before storing to maintain their crunchiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the whipped cream cheese on the cucumber slices, add the chicken salad, roll them up, and enjoy a quick, satisfying meal that’s just as delicious as if they were freshly made!
Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups with these fun variations that will tease your taste buds!
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Greek Yogurt: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt to lighten up the recipe while adding a tangy twist.
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Extra Crunch: Incorporate diced bell peppers or crunchy celery for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
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Herb Swap: Use dill or parsley instead of cilantro for a fresh herbal flavor that changes the dynamic of the filling.
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Protein Alternatives: Substitute shredded turkey or even vegetarian options like chickpeas for a flavorful and hearty filling.
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Nutty Addition: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a depth of nutty flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Try adding diced jalapeños to the chicken salad for a delightful heat that complements the refreshing cucumber.
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in some diced apples or grapes to add a hint of sweetness and a juicy contrast to the savory filling.
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Zesty Dressing: Drizzle your roll ups with a bit of balsamic glaze or apple cider vinegar for an exciting and tangy finish.
What to Serve with Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups?
Brighten up your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement these refreshing roll ups beautifully.
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Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette will perfectly balance the richness of the chicken salad. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and avocado for added flavor and color.
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Chilled Fruit Salad: A medley of juicy seasonal fruits enhances the freshness of your meal, bringing a sweet counterpoint to the savory rolls. The vibrant colors and textures will make your plate pop!
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Whole Wheat Pita Chips: Crunchy and wholesome, these chips add a satisfying crunch while keeping the meal on the lighter side. Pair them with hummus for an extra layer of flavor.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A glass of freshly squeezed lemonade or herbal iced tea offers a refreshing drink option that perfectly complements the lightness of the roll ups. Choose a hint of mint for a delightful twist.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and berries, a yogurt parfait continues the fresh theme and adds a creamy texture to your lunch. The sweetness combines wonderfully with the cucumber rolls.
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Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic reduction create a beautiful appetizer and deliver Italian flavors that pair well with your roll ups.
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Garlic Breadsticks: While perhaps not the lightest option, the garlic flavors from warm, soft breadsticks can add a comforting touch, especially when sharing at a gathering. You’ll find everyone reaching for them!
Consider these pairings to create a lively and satisfying meal that will leave everyone feeling nourished and delighted!
Expert Tips for Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups
- Pat Chicken Dry: Ensure your cooked chicken is thoroughly dried to avoid excess moisture messing up your roll ups.
- Choose Seedless Cucumbers: Opt for English cucumbers, as their thin skin and low seeds help maintain a crisp texture and prevent sogginess.
- Chill the Filling: Allow the chicken salad mixture to chill for at least 30 minutes before assembly; it helps in easier rolling and enhances the flavors.
- Uniform Thickness: Slice cucumbers uniformly to 1/8 inch; this is vital for rolling them tightly and ensuring even crunch in each bite.
- Customize Wisely: Feel free to mix in different herbs or veggies to suit your taste, but remember to balance moisture levels to keep the Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups intact.
Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Recipe FAQs
What type of cucumbers should I use for the Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups?
Absolutely go for English cucumbers! Their thin skin and fewer seeds make them perfect for rolling without getting soggy. Look for cucumbers that are firm with a smooth surface. If you notice any dark spots all over, it’s best to choose another one.
How should I store leftover Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups?
To keep your Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to keep the cucumber strips and chicken salad filling separate until you’re ready to enjoy them. This way, you’ll maintain that delightful crunch!
Can I freeze Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups?
Freezing is not recommended for Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups as cucumbers can turn mushy once thawed. Instead, what I often do is prepare the chicken salad filling in advance. Store it in the fridge, and assemble the roll ups fresh whenever you’re ready!
How can I prevent the chicken salad from becoming too watery?
Very! To avoid excess moisture, make sure to pat the cooked chicken dry before mixing it. Additionally, drain the cottage cheese for 30 minutes before using it as a base in the dressing. It will help keep your chicken salad mixture creamy but not overly runny.
What can I substitute for avocado if there’s an allergy?
If you or someone you’re serving is allergic to avocado, no worries! You can replace it with mashed white beans or hummus for creaminess, or even add more cottage cheese to maintain that lovely texture without the avocado.
How can I make these roll ups suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Great question! Fortunately, the Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups are already naturally gluten-free since they use cucumbers as the base instead of any bread or wraps. Just be sure to check any additional ingredients, like sauces or condiments, and choose gluten-free options if necessary!
Enjoy making your Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups—they’re sure to elevate your lunch experience!
Refreshing Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups for a Light Lunch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by shredding your cooked chicken, soaking and draining the red onion for that perfect crunch. Mix all these ingredients in a bowl with chopped cilantro and avocado until well combined.
- Blend cottage cheese, mayonnaise, onion powder, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a food processor until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Thinly slice your English cucumbers into 1/8 inch thick strips and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Spread a tablespoon of whipped cream cheese onto each cucumber slice. Layer on a generous amount of the chicken salad mixture. Roll them tightly from the bottom.
- Once assembled, slice the rolls into bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning and drizzle a little chipotle hot sauce.