Save to Pinterest Fresh English cucumbers sliced into thin ribbons provide the perfect crisp vessel for a tangy, creamy chicken salad filling. These elegant roll ups come together in just 20 minutes with no cooking required, making them ideal for quick appetizers, light lunches, or party platters. The combination of shredded chicken breast, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and fresh herbs creates a satisfying protein-packed filling that balances perfectly with the cool crunch of cucumber. Naturally low-carb and gluten-free, these roll ups stay fresh for hours when chilled, though they're best enjoyed within 2 hours of assembly for optimal texture.
My sister brought these to a summer potluck last year and they disappeared before I even got to the buffet table. She laughed and said they are her go-to when she wants something impressive but refuses to turn on the oven when it is ninety degrees out.
I started making them for my weekly lunch prep and found myself actually looking forward to Monday mornings. Something about picking up a fresh green roll just feels lighter and happier than a sandwich.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded: Using rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves so much time
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Real mayo makes the creamiest base but you can use light version
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt: Adds tang and lightens the texture beautifully
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Just enough to give the filling a little kick
- 1/4 cup celery finely diced: Essential for that satisfying crunch in every bite
- 2 tbsp red onion minced: Soaks into the dressing and adds a sharp bite
- 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped: Dried works but fresh makes it taste like a garden
- 1 tsp lemon juice: Brightens everything and keeps the chicken salad from feeling heavy
- Salt and pepper: Taste as you go because the seasoning makes or breaks it
- 2 large English cucumbers: The thinner skin and fewer seeds make them perfect for rolling
- 1/4 cup carrot julienned: Totally optional but adds such pretty color inside the rolls
Instructions
- Mix the filling:
- Toss everything except the cucumbers and carrots in a bowl until the chicken is evenly coated in that creamy herby dressing
- Prep the ribbons:
- Wash those cucumbers well then use a vegetable peeler to shave long strips from one end to the other
- Start rolling:
- Lay a ribbon flat and spread a spoonful of chicken salad near one end then tuck and roll like a tiny burrito
- Finish and serve:
- Place them seam down on your plate and try not to eat three while you are still working
Save to Pinterest My neighbor asked for the recipe after trying one at my backyard gathering and now she makes them for every book club meeting. There is something about finger food that makes people linger and talk longer.
Making Ahead
The chicken salad actually tastes better after sitting overnight so mix that up the day before and keep it chilled. Just wait to assemble the rolls until an hour or two before serving to keep everything crisp.
Serving Ideas
I like arranging them on a wooden board with some cherry tomatoes and maybe a bowl of extra veggies for dipping. They look so elegant and effortless like you spent hours when really it was twenty minutes tops.
Mix It Up
Sometimes I swap the dill for fresh basil or add tiny diced apples for sweetness. You can also use thinly sliced bell pepper strips instead of carrots for different colors.
- Try adding a tablespoon of chopped nuts for extra texture
- A pinch of paprika on top makes them look even fancier
- Leftover filling works great on crackers the next day
Save to Pinterest These little rolls have become my secret weapon for gatherings because people cannot stop talking about them. They are just so refreshing and somehow feel fancy without any of the fuss.
Recipes Q&A
- → How far in advance can I make these roll ups?
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For the best texture and freshness, prepare these roll ups no more than 2 hours before serving. The cucumber ribbons stay crisp and the filling remains creamy during this time. Any longer and the cucumbers may release moisture, making them slightly soggy.
- → Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?
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English cucumbers work best because they have thinner skin, fewer seeds, and a more consistent shape for slicing into ribbons. Regular cucumbers can be used, but you may want to peel them first and remove the seed center for better rolling results.
- → What's the best way to slice cucumbers into ribbons?
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A mandoline slicer creates the most even, thin ribbons for easy rolling. If you don't have one, a wide vegetable peeler works well too—just apply steady pressure and slice lengthwise from one end to the other, creating long continuous strips.
- → Can I make the chicken salad ahead of time?
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Absolutely! The chicken salad can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually meld and improve over time. Just wait to assemble the roll ups until a couple hours before serving.
- → Are these suitable for meal prep?
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These roll ups are great for portion-controlled lunches and snacks. For meal prep, store the chicken salad and sliced cucumbers separately, then assemble roll ups the night before or morning of your planned meal. They'll stay fresh for about 2 days when properly refrigerated.
- → What other vegetables can I add to the filling?
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Beyond the optional carrots, try adding diced bell peppers, finely chopped water chestnuts for extra crunch, or thinly sliced radishes. Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, basil, or tarragon also complement the chicken salad beautifully.
