Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups

The summer I discovered these roll ups, my kitchen was absurdly hot and I refused to turn on the oven. My friend Sarah had brought over a similar appetizer to a book club meeting, and I could not stop thinking about how something so simple could taste so incredibly fresh.

Last summer I made these for my sister's baby shower when we needed something light that pregnant guests could actually enjoy. Watching everyone reach for seconds while asking for the recipe made me realize these little roll ups work for absolutely every crowd and occasion.

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast: Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here, but poaching your own breasts gives you the most control over texture and seasoning
• Mayonnaise and Greek yogurt: This combo keeps the chicken salad creamy without being heavy, plus the yogurt adds a subtle tang that brightens everything
• English cucumbers: These have thinner skins and fewer seeds than regular cucumbers, plus their longer, straighter shape makes for easier rolling
• Fresh dill: Do not skip this, it is what makes the whole recipe taste like something special rather than just ordinary chicken salad

Instructions

Make the chicken salad:

Mix everything in a bowl until the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy dressing, then taste and adjust the seasoning

Prepare the cucumber ribbons:

Slice the cucumbers lengthwise using a vegetable peeler, applying gentle pressure to get ribbons that are thin enough to roll but thick enough to hold the filling

Assemble the roll ups:

Lay a ribbon flat, spread chicken salad across one end, roll it up tightly, and place it seam side down on your serving platter

Chill before serving:

These need about 30 minutes in the refrigerator to firm up slightly and let all the flavors meld together beautifully

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My grandmother started making these after her doctor told her to watch her carb intake, and they became her go to for bringing to family gatherings. She was so proud whenever someone asked for the recipe, claiming she had invented something entirely new.

Make Ahead Strategy

The chicken salad actually tastes better after sitting in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight, which makes these perfect for party prep. Just keep the components separate and assemble the roll ups about an hour before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These work beautifully as passed appetizers at cocktail hour or as part of a light lunch spread. I have also served them alongside soup when I want something substantial but not heavy.

Customization Options

Sometimes I add chopped walnuts for crunch or swap in fresh tarragon instead of dill when I want a different flavor profile. The basic formula is incredibly forgiving.

• Add crumbled bacon for a smoky twist
• Try fresh basil or cilantro instead of dill
• Serve with a small dish of extra mustard for dipping

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These little roll ups have become my answer to every what should I bring question, and I hope they become your go to too.

Wine Pairing

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry Pinot Grigio cuts through the creamy filling perfectly while complementing the fresh cucumber.

Storage Notes

These are best served within a few hours of assembly, but the chicken salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days if stored separately in an airtight container.

Quick Substitutions

No English cucumbers, regular cucumbers work too, just peel them first to remove the tough skin. Out of fresh dill, dried works in a pinch at about one third the amount.

• Try leftover turkey instead of chicken
• Swap in mashed avocado for half the mayo
• Add a dash of hot sauce for subtle warmth

I hope these become a staple in your kitchen just as they have in mine, bringing fresh simplicity to even the busiest days.

Recipe FAQs

→ How far in advance can I prepare these roll ups?

Prepare the chicken salad up to 24 hours ahead and store refrigerated. Assemble the cucumber roll ups no more than 2 hours before serving to maintain crisp texture.

→ What other vegetables work well in the filling?

Finely diced bell peppers, shredded radicchio, or chopped water chestnuts add excellent crunch. Fresh herbs like parsley, tarragon, or chives enhance the flavor profile beautifully.

→ Can I make these without a mandoline slicer?

A sharp vegetable peeler creates perfectly thin cucumber ribbons. Slice lengthwise with steady pressure, or use a chef's knife to cut very thin strips if preferred.

→ How do I prevent the roll ups from unrolling?

Place each finished roll seam side down on the serving platter. The natural moisture from the cucumber helps seal them together. Refrigerate briefly before serving to set their shape.

→ What protein substitutions work in this filling?

Finely shredded rotisserie turkey, flaked cooked salmon, or chopped hard-boiled eggs create excellent variations. Adjust the mayonnaise quantity based on the protein's moisture content.