If you’re on the lookout for a fresh, fun, and delightfully crisp appetizer, you need to try this Crunchy Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Recipe. It combines tender, flavorful chicken salad with refreshing cucumber slices, creating a low carb snack that bursts with texture and taste. These roll ups are not only visually appealing but also packed with wholesome ingredients that make every bite a perfect blend of crunch, creaminess, and zing. Whether you’re serving guests or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for this recipe is wonderfully simple yet essential to achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each component plays a critical role, from the crunchy nuts and refreshing cucumbers to the creamy mayonnaise and tangy mustard, coming together in harmony to elevate your chicken salad experience.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, finely chopped: The hearty, protein-rich base that makes this dish satisfying and tasty.
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced: Adds a crisp bite and a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken salad.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Provides a subtle sharpness that wakes up the flavor.
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise: The creamy binder that makes the chicken salad luscious without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Brings a gentle tang and depth to the mixture.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a bright, zesty freshness that balances the richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A hint of savory warmth to round out the flavor profile.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance all the other ingredients.
- 1/4 cup chopped toasted almonds or pecans: The secret crunch element that makes these roll ups irresistibly delightful.
- 2 tablespoons dried cranberries or grapes, sliced: A touch of sweetness to complement the savory notes.
- 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced lengthwise: Crisp, refreshing wraps for the chicken salad.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped: Fragrant herbs to garnish and add a fresh herbal kick.
How to Make Crunchy Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Salad Filling
Begin by combining the finely chopped chicken breast, diced celery, red onion, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Mix everything thoroughly so the flavors meld and the texture is creamy yet chunky. This filling is the delicious heart of your roll ups, bringing together creaminess, tanginess, and a pop of savory that’s simply addictive.
Step 2: Add the Crunch and Sweetness
Fold in the chopped toasted almonds or pecans and the dried cranberries or sliced grapes. These additions introduce an exciting textural contrast and a hint of sweetness that elevates the chicken salad to a whole new level. The crunchiness of the nuts paired with the juicy bursts from the dried fruit truly make this recipe stand out.
Step 3: Prepare the Cucumber Slices
Lay the cucumber slices flat on a clean surface and gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial because it prevents the salad from becoming watery and helps the roll ups hold their shape beautifully. The thin, crisp cucumber slices act as a refreshing wrap that adds a cool crunch to every bite.
Step 4: Assemble the Roll Ups
Place a small spoonful of the chicken salad mixture onto one end of each cucumber slice. Carefully roll the cucumber to encase the filling, creating a neat spiral. If needed, use a toothpick to secure each roll up so it doesn’t unravel. This step is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into an elegant, bite-sized treat.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Arrange the roll ups on a serving platter and sprinkle with freshly chopped dill or parsley. The herbs bring a fragrant, fresh note and a pop of color that makes these roll ups look as inviting as they taste. This final touch completes your Crunchy Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Recipe with flair!
How to Serve Crunchy Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like dill or parsley are a classic choice, adding brightness and visual appeal, but feel free to sprinkle some finely grated lemon zest or a few toasted nuts on top for an extra layer of flavor and elegance. These simple additions can make your serving presentation feel truly special.
Side Dishes
Pair your Crunchy Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Recipe with light side dishes such as a crisp green salad or a refreshing fruit salad. These roll ups shine best as appetizers or snack bites but also make a wonderful light lunch alongside a chilled soup or a plate of fresh vegetables and hummus.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or casual entertaining, arrange the roll ups on a vibrant platter with edible flowers or colorful vegetable sticks for a garden-fresh display. You can also serve individual roll ups on small skewers or cocktail picks to create an easy-to-grab finger food experience that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the cucumber roll ups tightly packed to maintain their crispiness and fresh flavor. They’re best eaten within 24 hours for optimal texture and taste, as the cucumbers may start to release moisture after that.
Freezing
This recipe is not ideal for freezing because the cucumbers will become watery and lose their crunch once thawed. For best results, prepare only what you plan to serve fresh, or freeze the chicken salad mixture separately without the cucumbers if needed.
Reheating
Since this is a no-cook, chilled recipe, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prepare the chicken salad mixture ahead of time, serve it cold or at room temperature stuffed in fresh cucumber slices right before serving for that perfect refreshing bite.
FAQs
Can I substitute the mayonnaise with something healthier?
Absolutely! You can replace half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to reduce fat and add a slight tang while keeping the creamy texture intact. It makes the salad a bit lighter without sacrificing flavor.
What can I use instead of dried cranberries?
Feel free to swap dried cranberries with grapes sliced in half, raisins, or even chopped fresh apple for some natural sweetness and juiciness that complement the savory chicken salad.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based chicken substitutes, vegan mayonnaise, and adjust the nuts, spices, and herbs accordingly. The cucumbers and fresh herbs bring a lot of freshness that carries this dish beautifully even as a vegan option.
How thin should the cucumber slices be cut?
They should be thin enough to roll easily without breaking, about 1/8 inch thick. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve even, delicate slices that are perfect for rolling.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken salad mixture up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate it, but it’s best to assemble the roll ups shortly before serving to keep cucumber slices crisp and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
This Crunchy Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration in your mouth every time. It’s simple, nutritious, and wonderfully refreshing all at once. If you want a quick appetizer to impress friends or a healthy snack that never gets boring, give this recipe a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Florida Shrimp Cheddar Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 roll ups
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Crunchy Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups offer a light, refreshing, and healthy appetizer option perfect for parties or snacks. Combining tender chicken breast with crunchy nuts, tangy mayonnaise, and fresh cucumber slices creates a delicious, no-cook dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Chicken Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped toasted almonds or pecans
- 2 tablespoons dried cranberries or grapes, sliced
Roll Ups
- 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Salad: In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped cooked chicken breast, diced celery, chopped red onion, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended.
- Add Nuts and Dried Fruit: Stir in the chopped toasted almonds or pecans along with the dried cranberries or sliced grapes, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the chicken salad.
- Prepare the Cucumber Slices: Lay the thin cucumber slices flat on a clean surface and gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step helps prevent sogginess when rolling.
- Assemble the Roll Ups: Place a small spoonful of chicken salad on one end of each cucumber slice. Carefully roll the cucumber slices up to form spirals, encasing the filling inside.
- Secure and Garnish: If needed, use a toothpick to hold each roll up in place. Arrange the finished roll ups on a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped dill or parsley.
- Serve Fresh: Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness, or refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving.
Notes
- For extra crunch and sweetness, finely diced apples can be added to the chicken salad mixture.
- Substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version of the salad.
- These roll ups are best enjoyed fresh but can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
