When the afternoon slump hits and you want something bright but filling, this High Protein Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll is a game changer. It’s not just about keeping things light; it’s about inviting fresh flavors and textures that make you pause and smile. Imagine the cool snap of cucumber against a creamy, herby chicken salad—each bite a little celebration of summer even if it’s chilly outside.
Last week, I tried this recipe after a hectic morning where I barely had time to think. While prepping, I got distracted by a text and sliced a few cucumber strips a little thicker than intended. Honestly, it didn’t ruin anything; it gave the roll a satisfying crunch that was unexpectedly nice. The mix of tangy Dijon and fresh herbs made the chicken salad pop, and rolling it all up felt like a little culinary gift to myself. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but only takes 20 minutes, which is just right for busy days or when you want something simple yet nourishing.
- It’s a refreshing way to enjoy chicken salad without feeling weighed down.
- The cucumber adds a hydrating crunch, but sometimes those slices get a bit tricky to roll perfectly — that’s part of the charm.
- High in protein but still light enough for a midday meal or snack.
- Minimal cooking and no oven needed, making it great for quick assembly.
If you’re worried about rolling the cucumber slices, don’t be. I usually just lay them out and overlap a few extra slices when the strips feel too short. It’s forgiving and fun to assemble, even if you’re not a sushi pro.
PrintHigh Protein Chicken Salad Cucumber Roll
A refreshing and protein-packed chicken salad wrapped in crisp cucumber slices, perfect for a light lunch or healthy snack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 rolls
Ingredients
2 large English cucumbers
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Wash the cucumbers and slice them lengthwise into thin strips using a mandoline or vegetable peeler, about 1/8 inch thick. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken breast, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Mix well until creamy.
Add the finely chopped celery, red onion, fresh dill, and fresh parsley to the chicken mixture. Stir to combine.
Season the chicken salad with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasoning.
Lay 4-5 cucumber slices overlapping lengthwise on a clean surface to form a rectangle large enough to hold the filling.
Spoon about 1/4 of the chicken salad mixture onto one edge of the cucumber rectangle.
Carefully roll the cucumber slices over the filling to form a tight roll. Repeat with the remaining cucumber slices and chicken salad.
Slice each roll in half diagonally and serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before serving.
For this recipe, you don’t need fancy kitchen gadgets; just a sharp knife or a vegetable peeler works fine. I like serving these rolls chilled alongside a crisp green salad or a handful of cherry tomatoes for a colorful plate. Sometimes I swap the dill for basil if I’m feeling adventurous, or add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle kick, but honestly, the classic combo is my go-to. You could also try swapping Greek yogurt for a little extra mayo if you prefer a creamier texture, though it’s more indulgent that way.
FAQ:
Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
A: They’re best fresh or within a few hours refrigerated because the cucumber tends to release water.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
A: Dried herbs can work, but fresh really brightens the flavor.
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Absolutely! It’s a great shortcut and adds extra flavor.
Q: How do I keep the rolls from falling apart?
A: Overlapping the cucumber slices helps, and rolling them tightly but gently is key.
Give this recipe a try next time you want something quick, satisfying, and a little different for lunch. Save it, print it, and most importantly, enjoy the fresh crunch and creamy goodness in every bite.