When it comes to light, flavorful, and visually stunning appetizers, few things beat Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll-Ups. They combine the creaminess and savory richness of classic chicken salad with the crisp, refreshing crunch of fresh cucumber slices. Perfect for summer lunches, quick snacks, or elegant party platters, these roll-ups are a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal without compromising on flavor.
I first discovered this recipe while searching for a protein-packed snack that could double as a crowd-pleaser at casual gatherings. The balance of shredded chicken, creamy avocado, and a hint of chipotle spice makes these roll-ups irresistible. They’re easy to prepare, customizable to your taste, and surprisingly satisfying. With just a few minutes of prep, you can create a colorful, flavorful dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or serving a light appetizer, these roll-ups are a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.
Recipe Overview
Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll-Ups feature a creamy, zesty chicken salad wrapped in thin cucumber slices. Each bite delivers a refreshing crunch paired with rich, savory chicken salad, a hint of lime, and a subtle kick from chipotle hot sauce. They’re easy to make, naturally low-carb, and perfect for snacking, lunchboxes, or entertaining guests.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s everything you need to make this bright, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked, shredded chicken
- ½ medium red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 5 tbsp cottage cheese (small curd)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 3 fl oz lime juice (from about 2–3 limes)
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 avocado, mashed
- 1 tbsp everything bagel seasoning
- 2 tbsp whipped cream cheese
- 1 tbsp chipotle hot sauce
- 1 large English cucumber, sliced lengthwise into thin strips
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Onion
Soak the finely diced red onion in water for 10 minutes to reduce its sharpness. Drain thoroughly before adding to the chicken salad.
2. Combine Chicken and Avocado
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, drained onion, chopped cilantro, and mashed avocado. Gently toss until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
3. Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, blend together cottage cheese, mayonnaise, onion powder, lime juice, salt, black pepper, and additional cilantro if desired. Stir until smooth and creamy. Pour over the chicken mixture and fold gently until fully coated.
4. Prepare the Cucumber
Lay cucumber slices on parchment paper, slightly overlapping them for stability. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
5. Assemble the Roll-Ups
Spread a thin layer of whipped cream cheese over each cucumber slice. Spoon a portion of the chicken salad mixture at the bottom of each slice. Top with extra onion and avocado slices if desired.
6. Roll and Garnish
Roll the cucumber slices tightly, applying gentle pressure to keep them together. Slice with a sharp knife into bite-sized rolls. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning and drizzle with chipotle hot sauce for added flavor and a little heat.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Adjust Spice Levels
- Reduce or omit the chipotle hot sauce for a milder roll-up.
- Add more for extra kick if you love spicy flavors.
2. Swap Ingredients
- Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise for a lighter option.
- Feta or shredded cheese can add an extra savory note.
3. Make Ahead
- Prepare the chicken salad in advance and refrigerate. Assemble roll-ups just before serving to maintain crisp cucumber texture.
4. Add Crunch
- Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, into the chicken salad for added texture.
- Thinly sliced bell peppers or shredded carrots can add color and crunch.
5. Presentation Tips
- Arrange the roll-ups on a platter in a spiral or row for an elegant look.
- Garnish with extra cilantro or microgreens for visual appeal.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Assemble cucumber roll-ups just before serving to avoid sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect as a light lunch or snack.
- Serve as a party appetizer alongside fresh veggies and dip.
- Pair with leafy greens or a simple quinoa salad for a full meal.
Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll-Ups are a refreshing, protein-packed snack that combines creamy, zesty chicken salad with crisp cucumber for a healthy, flavorful bite. Easy to prepare, versatile, and visually stunning, these roll-ups are perfect for any occasion—from meal prep to entertaining guests. They prove that healthy food can be delicious, fun, and satisfying.
With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a nutritious, low-carb dish that tastes indulgent but feels light. These roll-ups are destined to become a go-to for lunches, parties, and snack time alike.
FAQs
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the chicken salad up to a day in advance. Assemble the roll-ups right before serving to keep cucumbers crisp.
2. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for quick prep.
3. Are these roll-ups keto-friendly?
Yes, they are naturally low-carb and keto-friendly when using cucumbers instead of bread.
4. Can I make these vegan?
Yes. Use plant-based chicken, vegan mayonnaise, and dairy-free cream cheese to make them vegan-friendly.
5. How do I prevent the cucumber from getting soggy?
Pat cucumber slices dry before spreading the cream cheese and assemble right before serving.
Easy, healthy Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll-Ups with avocado, lime, and chipotle hot sauce. Perfect low-carb snack or appetizer ready in minutes.