When the afternoon slump hits and you’re craving something fresh but filling, this High Protein Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll fits the bill. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a little escape from the usual sandwich routine, offering a cool crunch and a creamy, savory filling all in one bite. I remember the first time I made these; the cucumbers were just the right thinness—well, maybe a tad uneven because I was rushing—but that made each roll a bit unique and fun to eat.
The mix of shredded chicken with herbs and a touch of tang from the mustard and lemon somehow makes this salad both comforting and lively at once. The red onion and celery sneak in little bursts of texture that keep you guessing. Honestly, it’s the kind of thing I’ve found myself reaching for on a busy day when I want something quick but don’t want to sacrifice flavor or nutrition. It’s light, but it holds you over better than you’d expect.
- The cucumber slices bring a crisp, refreshing element that contrasts beautifully with the creamy chicken salad inside.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No complicated cooking, just fresh ingredients doing their thing.
- High protein keeps you energized, making it a great choice for a healthy lunch or snack anytime.
- Preparing the rolls can be a bit fiddly at first, but that’s part of the charm and hands-on experience.
If you’re worried about keeping the rolls from getting soggy, assembling them right before serving works best. This little step makes a noticeable difference in texture, and it’s a good excuse to invite someone into the kitchen to help you roll them up.
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High Protein Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A refreshing and high-protein chicken salad wrapped in crisp cucumber slices, perfect for a light lunch or healthy snack.
Ingredients
2 large English cucumbers
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Wash and dry the cucumbers. Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, slice the cucumbers lengthwise into thin, wide strips about 1/8 inch thick.
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken breast, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, red onion, dill, parsley, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Lay a cucumber strip flat on a clean surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken salad mixture at one end of the strip.
Carefully roll the cucumber strip around the chicken salad filling to form a tight roll.
Repeat the rolling process with the remaining cucumber strips and chicken salad mixture.
Arrange the cucumber rolls on a serving plate and serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
Don’t stress about fancy equipment here — a simple peeler or mandoline works fine to get the cucumber slices just right. These rolls shine when served chilled, maybe alongside a light soup or as part of a picnic spread. I’ve tried swapping in different fresh herbs depending on what’s on hand, and while dill and parsley feel classic, basil or tarragon can give it a different vibe, though I haven’t tested those too much yet. You could also experiment with adding a little crunch from nuts or seeds inside, but that might take away from the pure simplicity I love about this dish.
FAQ
Can I prepare the chicken salad in advance? Yes, the chicken salad keeps well in the fridge for a few days, but it’s best to roll the cucumber wraps just before eating to keep them crisp.
What if I don’t have fresh dill or parsley? You can substitute with dried herbs, but use them sparingly as they are more concentrated and can change the texture slightly.
Are these rolls suitable for meal prep? They can be prepped up to a point, but assembling right before serving will always yield the best texture and flavor.
Give this recipe a shot when you need a quick, satisfying lunch that feels a little different from the usual. You might find yourself reaching for cucumbers and chicken salad more often than you thought.