Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Recipe

If you’re searching for a fresh, vibrant dish that perfectly balances creamy, zesty, and crunchy textures, you’ve just found it. The Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups combine tender shredded chicken with a luscious avocado and cottage cheese dressing, all wrapped in crisp cucumber slices. This recipe turns a classic chicken salad into a light, elegant appetizer or snack that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you need a quick lunch or a crowd-pleasing party starter, these roll ups bring flavor and freshness to your table effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the right combination of ingredients is key to creating those irresistible contrasts in the Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups. Each component plays a role—from the creamy dressing to the refreshing crunch of cucumber—making this dish a perfect harmony of tastes and textures.

• 1 lb cooked, shredded chicken: Provides the hearty, savory base with protein-packed goodness.
• 1/2 red onion: Adds a sharp bite that’s softened by soaking in water first to mellow the flavor.
• 2 cups water: To soak the onion and reduce its pungency for smoother taste.
• Handful of fresh cilantro: Infuses a bright, herbal note that lifts the whole dish.
• 1 avocado: Offers creamy richness that beautifully complements the crisp cucumber.
• 5 tbsp cottage cheese: Blends into the dressing for a velvety texture without overpowering the flavors.
• 3 tbsp mayo: Gives the salad a subtle tang and creaminess to bind all ingredients together.
• 1 tbsp onion powder: Enhances savory depth in the dressing.
• Juice of 3 limes: Adds a zesty, fresh acidity that brightens every bite.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
• Large English cucumber: Thinly sliced, it creates the perfect light, crunchy wrap.
• 2 tbsp whipped cream cheese: Acts as a flavorful spread to help the roll ups hold together smoothly.
• Everything bagel seasoning: Sprinkled on top for a savory, crunchy finishing touch.
• Chipotle hot sauce: Optional, but adds a smoky kick for those who like a little heat.

How to Make Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Onion

Start by shredding one pound of cooked chicken, which you can get from cooked chicken breasts or a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Using two forks makes the shredding quick and easy. Then finely dice half a red onion and soak it in two cups of water for about ten minutes. This simple soak takes the edge off the onion’s sharpness, leaving just the sweet flavor you want in your salad. Drain the onion well before proceeding.

Step 2: Mix the Salad Components

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the drained red onion. Chop up a handful of fresh cilantro to add a burst of freshness and cube one ripe avocado for creamy texture. Gently fold these ingredients together to maintain the avocado’s perfect softness without mashing it, making your chicken salad vibrant and luscious.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

This dressing is the heart of your roll ups. Blend together five tablespoons of cottage cheese, three tablespoons of mayo, a tablespoon of onion powder, and the juice of three fresh limes for a bright, tangy base. Add in a handful of cilantro along with a few generous pinches of salt and pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, then taste and adjust any seasoning as needed. Pour this luscious dressing over the chicken mixture, stirring gently to coat each bite generously.

Step 4: Prepare the Cucumber Wrap

Using a vegetable peeler, slice the large English cucumber into thin, wide strips. Lay these slices out on parchment paper so they overlap slightly by about a third, creating a stable base for rolling. To avoid sogginess, pat the cucumber slices dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture before assembling your roll ups.

Step 5: Assemble the Cucumber Roll

Spread two tablespoons of whipped cream cheese evenly over the layered cucumber slices. This spread not only adds flavor but also helps the roll ups stay intact. Next, place about four ounces of the chicken salad mixture along the bottom edge of the cucumber. Add some extra slices of avocado and onion on top if you want an extra punch of flavor and texture before rolling.

Step 6: Roll and Serve

Carefully start rolling up the cucumber slices from the bottom, gently pressing as you go to pack in the filling tightly while keeping the roll intact. Slice the roll into bite-sized rounds using a sharp knife. For the final flourish, sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top and drizzle with chipotle hot sauce if you like a smoky, spicy kick. These colorful, flavorful roll ups are ready to wow your guests or satisfy your craving for something light yet satisfying.

How to Serve Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves or a few thin avocado slices on top adds a pop of color and fresh aroma. The everything bagel seasoning gives a delightful crunch and makes every bite exciting. For those who love extra heat, a drizzle of chipotle hot sauce delivers an irresistible smoky spice.

Side Dishes

These roll ups are fantastic served alongside a crisp green salad or a bright tomato and cucumber salad to keep the meal feeling light and fresh. Alternatively, pair them with some roasted sweet potatoes or quinoa salad to round out the meal with hearty, wholesome sides.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or special occasions, arrange the roll ups on a large platter with decorative herbs like mint or basil for a festive touch. You can even serve them on skewers for easy grab-and-go finger food. Another fun idea is to create mini appetizer plates with a couple of roll ups, a small dollop of chipotle hot sauce, and some fresh lime wedges on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers—which is rare because these disappear fast—store the chicken salad and cucumber slices separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps keep the cucumber from getting soggy while maintaining the freshness of the salad. Assemble fresh roll ups when ready to serve again.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for the cucumber roll ups because cucumbers have a high water content and will become mushy upon thawing. To maintain the best texture and taste, enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerate leftovers for up to two days.

Reheating

Since this is a cold dish meant to be refreshing, reheating is unnecessary and would overpower the fresh flavors. Serve the chicken salad chilled or at room temperature for the best eating experience.

FAQs

Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut, but you can also use baked, grilled, or poached chicken breasts. Just make sure to shred or finely dice it so it mixes well with the other ingredients.

What can I substitute for whipped cream cheese?

If you don’t have whipped cream cheese, softened regular cream cheese works just fine. You can also use Greek yogurt or a mild goat cheese spread for a different flavor twist.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, these cucumber roll ups are perfect for a low-carb lifestyle since cucumber wraps replace bread or crackers. The homemade chicken salad is rich in protein and healthy fats without the added carbs.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for chickpeas or a plant-based chicken substitute. For vegan adaptations, use dairy-free cream cheese and mayonnaise alternatives, and ensure the dressing ingredients fit your dietary preferences.

How far in advance can I prepare the roll ups?

You can prepare the chicken salad up to a day ahead and store it refrigerated. Assemble the roll ups shortly before serving to keep the cucumber crisp and fresh.

Final Thoughts

These Best Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups are a vibrant, refreshing way to enjoy chicken salad with a creative twist. They’re perfect for when you want something light but satisfying, whether it’s a simple lunch or a stylish appetizer for friends. I can’t recommend enough giving this recipe a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to serve chicken salad!

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