Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll Ups

I started making these cucumber roll ups on a whim last summer when my garden was bursting with fresh cucumbers and I needed something cool for a patio gathering. The first batch disappeared before I could even set them down properly, which is always the best kind of recipe discovery. There's something deeply satisfying about food that looks impressive but comes together in minutes.

My friend Sarah accidentally called them garden sushi at a picnic last month, and honestly, the name stuck. People who claim they hate cucumbers somehow end up eating three or four of these. The ribbons look so elegant on a platter that guests assume you spent hours preparing them.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, finely shredded: Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here, saving you time while still delivering great flavor
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Use real mayo for the creamiest base, not miracle whip
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt: Adds a lovely tang that cuts through the richness
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Just enough to wake up the flavors without overpowering
• 1/4 cup celery, finely diced: Essential for that satisfying crunch in every bite
• 2 tbsp red onion, finely minced: Soak in cold water for 10 minutes if you want it milder
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped: Dried dill works in a pinch, but fresh makes it sing
• 1 tsp lemon juice: Brightens everything and keeps the chicken salad from feeling heavy
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Dont skimp on the seasoning, cucumbers need a little help
• 2 large English cucumbers: The thinner skin and fewer seeds make them perfect for rolling
• 1/4 cup carrot, julienned: Optional, but adds such a pretty pop of color

Instructions

Mix up the chicken salad:

Combine all the chicken salad ingredients in a medium bowl, mixing until everything is well blended but still has some texture. Taste and adjust the seasonings before moving on.

Create cucumber ribbons:

Slice your cucumbers lengthwise with a vegetable peeler or mandoline into long, thin strips. Aim for about 16 even ribbons that are pliable but not paper-thin.

Assemble the rolls:

Lay a cucumber ribbon flat and spread about 1 1/2 tablespoons of filling along one short end. Add a few carrot strips if using, then roll gently but firmly.

Finish and serve:

Place each roll seam side down on your serving platter. These taste best within a couple hours, though the filling keeps well in the fridge for a quick snack later.

Save

My daughter now requests these for her school lunches, which feels like a parenting win. Theres something so gratifying about watching kids happily eat vegetables without any coaxing required. Theyve become a staple in our summer rotation.

Make It Your Own

Sometimes I swap the chicken for canned salmon or tuna when I want something different. Fresh herbs are fair game too, basil and chives both work beautifully in place of or alongside the dill.

Presentation Secrets

Use a serrated knife to trim the ends evenly after rolling if you want them picture perfect. I like to arrange them on a bed of mixed greens or on a wooden board with small forks nearby. A light sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning on top has been known to make people swoon.

Storage Solutions

The chicken salad filling keeps beautifully for three days in the fridge, so I often make double and use it for wraps or lettuce cups too. The assembled rolls are best within two hours, though leftovers still make a decent next day lunch if you dont mind slightly softer cucumber.

• Separate the filling from cucumbers if meal prepping for the week
• Bring rolls to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for best flavor
• Consider serving extra chicken salad on the side as a dip for any broken pieces

Save

These roll ups have become my go to for bringing something fresh and unexpected to potlucks. Watching faces light up at that first crisp bite never gets old.

Recipe FAQs

→ How far ahead can I make these roll ups?

For optimal texture, prepare within 2 hours of serving. The chicken salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored refrigerated. Assemble the roll ups shortly before serving to prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy.

→ Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English?

English cucumbers work best due to their thin skin and minimal seeds. Regular cucumbers can be used, but peel them first and remove the seeded center for better rolling results.

→ What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

Additional mayonnaise creates a richer, creamier filling. Sour cream offers similar tanginess, while mashed avocado provides a dairy-free alternative with healthy fats.

→ How do I slice cucumbers into ribbons?

Use a mandoline slicer set to the thinnest setting, or a wide vegetable peeler. Slice lengthwise from one end to the other, applying even pressure. You'll need about 8 ribbons per cucumber.

→ Are these suitable for meal prep?

Store the chicken salad and cucumber ribbons separately in airtight containers. The filling keeps 3-4 days refrigerated. Assemble individual roll ups as needed throughout the week.

→ Can I make these dairy-free?

Replace Greek yogurt with additional mayonnaise or dairy-free yogurt alternative. Ensure all other ingredients, particularly mayonnaise, are certified dairy-free.