Chef Mitchell preparing Crunchy Cucumber Chicken Rolls
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered these Crunchy Cucumber Chicken Rolls during a summer BBQ at a friend's house. The freshness of the cucumber combined with the savory chicken filling was a hit. After perfecting the recipe over the years, it's now a staple at my gatherings. I love how they are light yet filling, making them perfect for any occasion."

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, Chef Mitchell specializes in crafting delicious appetizers. His passion for fresh ingredients and innovative recipes has made him a favorite among food enthusiasts. From casual gatherings to formal events, he knows how to impress with his culinary creations.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Crunchy Cucumber Chicken Rolls served on a plate

Why This Crunchy Cucumber Chicken Rolls Recipe Works

These Crunchy Cucumber Chicken Rolls are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and refreshing appetizer. The use of fresh cucumber provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy chicken filling. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: a light bite without sacrificing flavor.

The technique of rolling the cucumber tightly ensures that each bite is filled with flavor. Letting the rolls chill in the fridge enhances the flavors and makes them easy to slice. This simple yet effective method guarantees a delightful experience for your taste buds.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, choose firm cucumbers that are not overly ripe. This will help maintain the crunchiness of the rolls. Also, ensure to pat the cucumber slices dry to prevent excess moisture from diluting the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare these rolls a few hours in advance. Just assemble the rolls, wrap them in plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes them easy to serve when your guests arrive.

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. These alternatives provide a similar creamy texture while reducing the fat content. You can also use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.

Since these rolls are served cold, there isn't a cooking temperature to check. Instead, ensure that the rolls are tightly rolled and properly chilled before serving. They should hold their shape and have a nice crunch when bitten into.

Freezing is not recommended for these rolls since the cucumber will lose its crunch once thawed. However, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble the rolls fresh before serving for the best texture.

These rolls pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, ranch dressing, or a tangy yogurt sauce. You can also serve them alongside other appetizers like veggie platters or cheese boards for a complete spread.

When stored properly in an airtight container, these rolls can last up to 2 days in the fridge. However, for the best taste and texture, it's advisable to consume them within 24 hours.

Absolutely! Preparing these rolls ahead of time is a great idea. Just assemble them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you're ready to serve. This will allow the flavors to develop and ensure they are chilled perfectly.

These rolls are meant to be served cold, so reheating is not necessary. If they have been sitting out for a while, simply place them in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before serving to restore their freshness.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your rolls turn out dry, it could be due to overcooking the chicken or not adding enough creamy filling.

Solution: To fix this, ensure you’re using cooked chicken that is moist or consider adding more cream cheese to the filling mixture to enhance creaminess.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the cucumber is not as crispy as expected, it may be due to using overripe cucumbers.

Solution: Select firm and fresh cucumbers for the best crunch. You can also slice them just before assembling the rolls to reduce moisture loss.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the chicken used in your rolls is overcooked, it may result in a dry texture.

Prevention: To prevent this, ensure to cook the chicken just until it is tender and no longer pink. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the chicken appears undercooked, it can pose a health risk.

Recovery: Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before shredding. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's safely cooked through.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If your rolls have a burnt exterior, it may be due to cooking the chicken too high or too long.

Prevention: Cook chicken at a moderate temperature and check frequently to avoid overcooking or burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the rolls are too sweet, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: To counteract saltiness, add more cream cheese or a dollop of yogurt to mellow the flavor.

Bland: If the flavor is bland, add more herbs and spices to the filling, like additional dill or garlic powder.

Fresh ingredients for Crunchy Cucumber Chicken Rolls

Essential Ingredients for Crunchy Cucumber Chicken Rolls

The key to making fantastic Crunchy Cucumber Chicken Rolls lies in the quality of your ingredients. Fresh cucumbers are essential for that satisfying crunch, while tender, cooked chicken adds protein and heartiness. Cream cheese and herbs work together to create a flavorful filling that complements the cucumbers perfectly.

Selecting high-quality ingredients can elevate your rolls. Opt for organic chicken and fresh herbs for the best flavor. The freshness of the cucumbers directly impacts the crunchiness of the rolls, so choose firm and unblemished cucumbers for the best results.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Cucumber: Choose firm cucumbers that are not soft or overripe. English cucumbers are a great choice as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them ideal for rolling.
  • Chicken Breast: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy preparation. Cooking the chicken just until it reaches 165°F will keep it moist and tender, perfect for shredding.
  • Cream Cheese: Bring cream cheese to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy filling. You can also experiment with flavored cream cheese for an added twist.
Cooking process for Crunchy Cucumber Chicken Rolls

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making Crunchy Cucumber Chicken Rolls involves a few simple steps that yield delicious results. Start by preparing the filling, which involves mixing chicken with creamy ingredients. Then, prepare your cucumber slices for rolling. The assembly is straightforward, and anyone can do it with a little practice.

The key to achieving perfect results is to ensure each roll is tightly packed but not overly stuffed. This will help maintain the integrity of the rolls while ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Chilling them helps the flavors meld and makes them easier to cut.

Key Technique for Perfect Crunchy Cucumber Chicken Rolls

The most important technique for these rolls is properly rolling the cucumber slices. Each slice should be rolled tightly around the filling to ensure that they hold their shape. This method not only enhances the presentation but also ensures that each bite is filled with the delicious filling.

Crunchy Cucumber Chicken Rolls

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
    Low sodium preferred
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 medium cucumber
    Thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese
    Softened
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill
    Chopped
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper
    Thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup lettuce
    Shredded
  • 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling

    In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, dill, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

  2. Prepare the Cucumber

    Slice the cucumber thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife to create uniform rounds. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

  3. Assemble the Rolls

    On each cucumber slice, spread a thin layer of the chicken filling. Add a small amount of shredded carrots, bell pepper, and lettuce on top.

  4. Roll the Cucumber

    Carefully roll up each cucumber slice tightly, securing the filling inside.

  5. Garnish

    Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the rolls for added crunch and flavor.

  6. Chill and Serve

    Refrigerate the rolls for at least 30 minutes to set, then slice each roll in half for easy serving.

  7. Presentation

    Arrange the cucumber chicken rolls on a platter and serve with a dipping sauce if desired.

  8. Enjoy!

    Serve chilled and enjoy your Crunchy Cucumber Chicken Rolls as a refreshing appetizer.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness. If you need to store them longer, consider freezing the filling separately.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Crunchy Cucumber Chicken Rolls alongside a selection of dipping sauces such as ranch or sweet chili sauce. Pair them with a fresh salad or veggie platter for a healthy spread.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize the filling by adding ingredients like avocado, bacon bits, or different herbs. You can also use smoked chicken for a different flavor profile.