chicken salad summer rolls

chicken salad summer rolls

Are you ready to roll? These Chicken Salad Summer Rolls are not only fun to make, but they’re also packed with delicious flavors and colorful veggies! I’ll show you how to whip up this light and tasty dish that’s perfect for lunch or as a snack. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Cook Time:
Prep Time: 40
Yields: 6
Calories: 1296

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Salad summer Rolls

Let’s gather our ingredients for these delightful Chicken Salad Summer Rolls. This dish is all about fresh flavors and colorful veggies, perfect for a warm day or a cozy gathering with friends. Below, I’ve outlined everything you’ll need to create these tasty rolls:

for the Chicken Salad:

  • ½ pound shredded cooked chicken (You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or poach your own!)
  • 2 tablespoons minced red onion (adds a zesty crunch)
  • ¼ cup thinly sliced celery (for that refreshing crunch)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a hint of smokiness)
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground cumin (this adds warmth and depth)
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)

For the Summer Rolls:

  • 6 small rice paper sheets (these will become our wrappers)
  • 12 slices ripe avocado (creamy and delicious!)
  • ½ cup thinly sliced red bell pepper strips (colorful and sweet)
  • ½ medium English cucumber, cut into strips (refreshing and crunchy)
  • ½ cup julienned carrot (adds colour and sweetness)
  • 2 cups chopped hearts of romaine lettuce (for a crunchy base)

For the dipping Sauce (optional but recommended):

  • ⅓ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh tarragon
  • 2 teaspoons finely sliced fresh basil
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

These simple ingredients come together to create a fun and healthy dish that you’ll want to enjoy again and again. Don’t be afraid to customize the fillings based on your preferences or what you have on hand; the possibilities are endless!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken salad Summer Rolls

Now that we have our ingredients ready, its time to roll up our sleeves and dive into making these Chicken Salad Summer Rolls. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a dish that’s not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor.

  1. Prepare the Chicken Salad: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, minced red onion, celery, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, and mayonnaise. mix everything together until well blended. Cover and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  1. Soften the Rice Paper: Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Take one rice paper sheet and dip it into the water. Let it soak for about 10-15 seconds or until it starts to soften but isn’t fully limp.remove it from the water and shake off any excess moisture.
  1. Assemble the Roll: Lay the softened rice paper on a clean work surface.In the center of the wrapper, place 2 slices of avocado, followed by a layer of bell pepper strips, cucumber, and julienned carrot. Top it off with about ¼ cup of the chicken salad mixture and a handful of romaine lettuce.
  1. Roll It Up: Gently fold the bottom of the rice paper over the filling. Then, fold in the sides and roll everything up tightly away from you, tucking in the sides as you go. If needed, dip a second rice paper wrapper in water and wrap it around the first roll for extra support.
  1. Repeat: Place the completed roll on a plate and cover with a slightly damp paper towel. Repeat with the remaining ingredients until you’ve made all your rolls.
  1. Make the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, tarragon, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  1. Serve and Enjoy: Cut the rolls in half for a stunning presentation and serve with the dipping sauce on the side.

Enjoy creating these vibrant and flavorful summer rolls — they’re sure to impress your family and friends!

 chicken salad summer rolls

Serving and Storage Facts for Chicken Salad Summer Rolls

Once you’ve made your Chicken Salad Summer Rolls, it’s time to think about how to serve and store them.These rolls are perfect for a light lunch, picnic, or appetizer at a gathering. Here’s how to enjoy and keep them fresh:

Serving Suggestions:

  • Presentation: Cut the rolls in half for a gorgeous display on a platter. The colorful vegetables peek out, making them visually appealing.
  • Dipping Sauce: Serve with a dipping sauce on the side. I recommend a zesty lemon-tarragon mayo for a delightful flavor boost. To make this, simply mix ⅓ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 2 teaspoons chopped fresh tarragon, and a pinch of salt.
  • Fresh Herbs: Garnish the plate with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for an extra pop of color and flavor.
  • Pairing: These rolls pair wonderfully with a chilled glass of iced tea or lemonade to make your meal refreshing.

Storage Instructions:

If you happen to have any rolls left over,they can be stored in an airtight container. Here’s how to properly store them:

  • Refrigeration: Keep your summer rolls in the fridge where they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. To prevent sticking, place parchment paper between the rolls.
  • Avoid Freezing: I wouldn’t recommend freezing these rolls,as the rice paper can become too soggy once thawed.

Make sure to enjoy them within a couple of days for the best quality, as the fresh ingredients are at their peak. These summer rolls are truly best when enjoyed fresh, but proper storage will help you savor them just a bit longer!

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting tips for Chicken salad Summer Rolls

Creating delicious Chicken Salad Summer Rolls can be straightforward, but here are some notes and troubleshooting tips to help ensure success.

Tips for Perfect Rolls:

  • Rice Paper Handling: when working with rice paper, it’s critically importent not to soak it for too long. If the wrapper becomes too soft, it may tear when you try to roll it. Just a speedy dip in warm water is enough.
  • Fillings Adaptability: Feel free to mix and match the fillings! You can swap out the chicken for other proteins like shrimp or tofu, or add your favorite veggies.the key is to keep the flavors balanced.
  • Avoid Overstuffing: When filling the rolls, use just enough filling to avoid overstuffing. This helps the roll stay secure and makes them easier to wrap.

Common Issues:

  • Rolls Sticking Together: If your summer rolls tend to stick to each other, try placing a piece of parchment paper between them in the storage container.This reduces moisture and keeps them from clinging together.
  • Dry Ingredients: If you find your ingredients are getting dry, consider adding a splash of water or a drizzle of your favorite dressing to keep them moist without overwhelming the flavors.

These notes should help you navigate any bumps you might encounter while making your summer rolls. With a bit of practice and creativity,you’ll be rolling them like a pro in no time!