If you’re searching for a snack or appetizer that’s fresh, satisfying, and visually stunning, Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups are exactly what you need. These little bites combine the best of creamy chicken salad with crisp, refreshing cucumber, creating a low-carb, high-protein option that’s perfect for lunch, brunch, or entertaining. I first tried making them on a busy weeknight when I wanted something nutritious but fun, and they immediately became a go-to recipe.
What makes these roll-ups so special is the balance of flavors and textures. Juicy shredded chicken is combined with avocado, creamy cottage cheese, mayonnaise, and a hint of lime, then rolled inside thin cucumber slices. Each bite delivers creaminess, crunch, and a gentle spice from chipotle hot sauce, finished with the savory crunch of everything bagel seasoning. They’re light, elegant, and incredibly satisfying, making them perfect for meal prep or a colorful addition to any spread.
Recipe Overview
Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups are a low-carb, fresh appetizer or snack featuring shredded chicken mixed with avocado, cottage cheese, cilantro, lime, and mayonnaise, rolled into crisp cucumber strips. Topped with everything bagel seasoning and chipotle hot sauce, they’re creamy, zesty, and packed with flavor—all ready in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients & Instructions
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 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. Prep the Onion
Soak the finely diced red onion in water for about 10 minutes to reduce its bite. Drain thoroughly before adding to the salad mixture.
2. Mix the Chicken Base
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, drained red onion, chopped cilantro, and mashed avocado. Gently toss to combine, keeping the chicken tender and fluffy.
3. Make the Creamy Dressing
In a separate bowl, blend cottage cheese, mayonnaise, onion powder, lime juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently until evenly coated.
Tip: For extra creaminess, use a small food processor or blender to emulsify the dressing before adding it to the chicken.
4. Prepare the Cucumber Strips
Lay the cucumber slices flat on parchment paper, slightly overlapping them if needed. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, ensuring the rolls stay crisp.
5. Assemble the Roll Ups
Spread a thin layer of whipped cream cheese over each cucumber strip. Place a small amount of the chicken salad mixture at the bottom of each strip, then add extra diced onion or avocado slices on top.
6. Roll and Garnish
Carefully roll each cucumber slice tightly but gently. Slice with a sharp knife into bite-sized pieces. Top each roll with a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning and a drizzle of chipotle hot sauce for a punch of flavor.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for a few hours to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Make It Spicier
- Add extra chipotle hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne to the chicken salad for more heat.
2. Switch Up the Herbs
- Swap cilantro with parsley, dill, or chives for a different herbal note.
3. Alternative Wraps
- If cucumber isn’t your favorite, try thin slices of zucchini, bell peppers, or even lettuce leaves.
4. Dairy-Free Option
- Use vegan cream cheese and omit cottage cheese for a dairy-free version.
5. Add Crunch
- Toss in finely chopped celery, radish, or bell pepper into the chicken salad for extra texture.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Store roll-ups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Assemble them close to serving time for maximum freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect for lunchboxes, appetizers at parties, or healthy snack platters.
- Pair with fresh fruit, light salads, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Great for meal prep: prepare the chicken salad ahead, then assemble cucumber rolls just before serving.
Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups are a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying dish that combines creamy, zesty chicken salad with crisp cucumber. They’re perfect for anyone seeking a low-carb, high-protein snack or appetizer that’s easy to make and visually impressive. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors—from creamy avocado to crunchy cucumber, with a subtle heat from chipotle hot sauce. Quick, healthy, and endlessly customizable, these roll-ups are guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, prep the chicken salad ahead, but assemble the cucumber rolls just before serving for best texture.
2. Can I make them spicier?
Absolutely. Add more chipotle hot sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
3. Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, using cucumber instead of bread keeps it low-carb and light.
4. Can I substitute the cucumber?
Yes, try zucchini slices, bell pepper strips, or even lettuce leaves.
5. How long do they stay fresh?
Assembled roll-ups last up to 2 days in the fridge, but cucumbers are crispest if served soon after rolling.
Delicious and healthy Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups with avocado, lime, and creamy dressing. Low-carb, protein-packed, and perfect for snacks or appetizers.
