Name: Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups for a Light Lunch Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 pound cooked shredded chicken (leftover rotisserie chicken is a great option); 0.25 cup red onion (drained and soaked to tone down sharpness); 0.33 cup fresh cilantro (substitute with parsley if preferred); 1 medium avocado (mash just before use to prevent browning); 0.5 cup cottage cheese (drain for smoother texture); 0.25 cup mayonnaise (swap for Greek yogurt for lighter option); 1 tablespoon lime juice (fresh lime juice preferred); to taste salt & pepper (adjust as needed); 2 large English cucumbers (or Persian cucumbers as substitute)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the sun streaming through the window, I felt the urge for something fresh and light yet satisfying. That’s when I whipped up the Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups! These delightful bites pair crunchy cucumbers with a creamy chicken salad that packs a flavorful punch. They’re perfect for busy afternoons when you need a quick, revitalizing meal without the guilt of heavy fare. Plus, they double as an irresistible, customizable option for packed lunches, ensuring you sneak in those extra veggies without anyone noticing. Are you ready to transform your lunch routine? Let’s roll!

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Why are Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups amazing?

Light & Refreshing: These roll-ups are the ultimate balance of crisp cucumbers and creamy chicken salad, delivering a refreshing bite perfect for warm days.

Quick Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip these up in no time, making them ideal for busy weeknights or quick lunches.

Customizable Delight: Feel free to substitute ingredients—try adding your favorite herbs or using turkey instead of chicken for a fun twist.

Packed Lunch-Friendly: They fit perfectly into lunchboxes, ensuring you enjoy a nutritious meal without resorting to fast food.

Healthy & Nutritious: Low in calories but high in flavor, these roll-ups are a great way to load up on protein and veggies. Pair them with a side of Cucumber Tomato Salad for a complete meal!

Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad
• Cooked Shredded Chicken – A key protein source; feel free to use leftover rotisserie chicken for an easy option.
• Red Onion – Adds a crunchy texture and sweet flavor; soaking in water for 10 minutes can tone down its sharpness.
• Fresh Cilantro – Enhances flavor with a fresh taste; substitute with parsley if you prefer a milder herb.
• Avocado – Provides creaminess and healthy fats; mash just before use to prevent browning.
• Cottage Cheese – Acts as a creamy base; drain it for 30 minutes for a smoother texture.
• Mayonnaise – Adds richness and creaminess; swap for Greek yogurt if you want a lighter touch.
• Lime Juice – Offers a burst of acidity; fresh lime juice delivers the best flavor.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing all flavors; adjust to your taste preference.

For the Roll Ups
• English Cucumbers – These are perfect for rolling due to their thin skin and fewer seeds; Persian cucumbers can also be used as a substitute for a similar texture.

Feel free to get creative with your Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups—the possibilities are endless!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of cooked shredded chicken, a quarter-cup of drained red onion, one-third cup of chopped cilantro, and one diced avocado. Mix these ingredients well until they are evenly distributed. Allow the mixture to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, as this helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to work with for the Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups.

Step 2: Make Dressing
In a food processor, blend together half a cup of cottage cheese, a quarter cup of mayonnaise, one teaspoon of onion powder, the juice of one lime, a tablespoon of cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Process until the dressing is smooth and creamy with no lumps. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, ensuring a flavorful and light dressing that will perfectly complement your chicken salad.

Step 3: Slice Cucumbers
Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the English cucumbers into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Aim for even slices so they roll easily. Once sliced, lay the cucumber pieces on paper towels and pat them dry to remove excess moisture, preventing the Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups from becoming soggy and ensuring they remain crisp when assembled.

Step 4: Assemble Roll Ups
Spread a thin layer of the creamy dressing on one side of each cucumber slice. Take a tablespoon of the chicken salad mixture and place it on top of the dressing. Optionally, add extra diced onion and avocado for more flavor. Starting from one end, gently roll the cucumber tightly around the filling, creating a neat little package. Repeat this process until all cucumber slices and filling are used up.

Step 5: Serve
Arrange the finished Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups on a serving platter. For an added touch of flavor, sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning and drizzle with a little hot sauce if you like a bit of heat. These delightful roll-ups are best enjoyed fresh but can also be made in advance for a quick lunch option, making them a perfect choice for busy days!

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Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your own creativity into this recipe and make it uniquely yours!

Substitute Proteins: Swap shredded chicken for turkey or chickpeas for a vegetarian delight. Both options add their own rich flavors without sacrificing the texture!
Herb Options: Use fresh dill or basil instead of cilantro for a refreshing twist. These herbs provide a fragrant aroma and elevate the overall flavor profile!
Add Crunch: Incorporate diced bell peppers, celery, or even toasted nuts for an extra crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling. It’s a delightful surprise in each bite!
Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a splash of Sriracha for an extra kick if you like a bit of heat in your meal. A small amount goes a long way in heat and flavor!
Low-Cal Version: Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt and reduce calories without losing creaminess. The yogurt offers a tangy flavor while keeping everything light!
Creative Dips: Serve with a side of hummus or tzatziki for dipping if you desire more flavor. These pair well and add another layer to your refreshingly delicious roll-ups!
Veggie Boost: Roll up other veggies like shredded carrots or spinach alongside the chicken salad for added nutrition and vibrant color. The more, the merrier!
Flavored Cream Cheese: Try using a flavored cream cheese like herb-infused or garlic for extra zest. It enhances the creaminess and complements the chicken salad perfectly!

Experiment and enjoy as you navigate the delightful world of your Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups. For a refreshing side dish, consider pairing it with a light Cucumber Tomato Salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious!

How to Store and Freeze Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups

Room Temperature: Keep roll-ups at room temperature for no longer than 2 hours, especially if you’re serving them at a gathering.

Fridge: Best enjoyed fresh within 24 hours, store in an airtight container in the fridge to keep cucumbers crisp.

Freezer: Not recommended for freezing once assembled, as cucumbers lose texture; instead, freeze the chicken salad separately for up to 3 months.

Reheating: No reheating is needed; simply assemble fresh before serving for the best flavor and crunch.

Expert Tips for Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups

Slice Thickness: Ensure cucumber slices are about 1/8 inch thick to roll easily without breaking. Too thick may lead to tough bites.
Pre-Chill Mix: Let your chicken salad mixture chill for at least 30 minutes; it firms up and holds its shape better during rolling, enhancing your Best Chicken Salad Cucumber experience.
Dry Cucumbers: Pat cucumber slices dry to avoid excess moisture, which can make the roll-ups soggy. Use paper towels for storage if preparing ahead.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs or add-ins like diced bell peppers or crumbled feta to make these roll-ups uniquely yours.
Storage Tips: Enjoy your roll-ups fresh, but if making in advance, store chicken salad and cucumber slices separately to maintain crispness.

What to Serve with Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups

Enhance your light lunch experience with side dishes that complement every refreshing bite of these delightful roll-ups.

Crisp Garden Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a zesty vinaigrette provide a crunchy texture and bright flavors that balance the creamy chicken filling.
Sweet Seasonal Fruit: Offer slices of juicy watermelon or refreshing berries for a natural sweetness that perfectly contrasts the savory roll-ups.
Kettle Chips: Their satisfying crunch adds a fun and indulgent element to your meal; the salty flavor contrasts nicely with the cool cucumber.
Zucchini Noodles: Light and airy spiralized zucchini dressed with olive oil and lemon creates a colorful veggie side packed with flavor.
Mini Quiches: These bite-sized snacks are savory and eggy, making them a wonderful addition to your lunch spread while providing protein.
Herbed Yogurt Dip: A creamy, tangy dip made with Greek yogurt and fresh herbs pairs beautifully with any leftover cucumber slices, creating a refreshing bite.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp, chilled white wine enhances the meal with its acidity and refreshing qualities, making it a delightful pairing for lunch.
Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Lemonade: Bright and bubbly, this refreshing drink offers a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the lightness of the roll-ups.

Make Ahead Options

These Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken salad mixture and refrigerate it up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, slice the cucumbers and store them separately, patting them dry to prevent sogginess. Just before serving, simply spread a layer of dressing on the cucumber slices, add a portion of the chicken salad, and roll them up tightly. This method ensures that your roll-ups are fresh, crisp, and just as delicious, making your next lunch helpfully effortless!

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Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Recipe FAQs

What type of cucumber should I use for the roll-ups?
I recommend using English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds, which makes them ideal for rolling. If you can’t find them, Persian cucumbers are a great substitute, providing a similar crunch and texture.

How can I ensure my avocado doesn’t brown in the chicken salad?
To keep your avocado from browning, mash it just before you mix it into the chicken salad. Additionally, adding lime juice not only enhances the flavor but also helps to preserve the freshness of the avocado.

How should I store leftover chicken salad cucumber roll-ups?
For best results, store any leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. If you want them to stay fresh longer, keep the chicken salad and cucumber slices separate and assemble them just before serving. This will ensure the cucumbers remain crisp!

Can I freeze the chicken salad for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze the chicken salad mixture on its own for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Remember, don’t assemble the roll-ups before freezing, as the cucumbers don’t freeze well.

What if I have a dietary allergy?
If you have a dairy allergy, you can substitute the cottage cheese with a dairy-free yogurt to maintain the creaminess. For those avoiding eggs, opt for a vegan mayonnaise alternative. Always check labels for hidden allergens, and don’t hesitate to customize ingredients to fit your dietary needs!

How do I prevent sogginess in my cucumber roll-ups?
Preventing sogginess is crucial for a delightful bite! Ensure you slice the cucumbers thinly and pat them dry with a paper towel after slicing. If you’re preparing them ahead of time, store the chicken salad and cucumber slices separately until you’re ready to assemble the roll-ups. By doing this, you keep everything fresh and crispy!