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When the scorching heat of summer rolls around, I crave something light yet satisfying to keep my spirits high. That’s where these Chicken Salad Summer Rolls come into play! Picture the first crunch as you bite into a soft rice paper wrap, the burst of fresh vegetables mingling with savory chicken salad, all complemented by a creamy herbed mayonnaise dip that adds a burst of flavor.

In my quest to escape the heaviness of traditional meals, I discovered this vibrant twist on classic Vietnamese summer rolls. They are not just easy to make, but incredibly flexible, allowing you to mix and match fillings to suit any palate. Whether you’re hosting a sunny brunch or simply looking for a fresh take on dinner, these rolls deliver a delightful crunch with every bite. Plus, they’re gluten-free and can easily be tailored to suit varying dietary needs. Let’s roll into a world of flavor and simplicity!

Why will you love Chicken Salad Summer Rolls?

Light and Refreshing: These Chicken Salad Summer Rolls are a delightful escape from heavy meals, packed with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, perfect for those hot summer days.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap chicken for turkey, tofu, or even chickpeas, adding your favorite veggies for endless variations and creativity.
Quick Preparation: With only a few simple steps, you can prepare a colorful and satisfying meal in no time, making them an ideal option for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for brunch, a picnic, or a dinner party, these rolls are sure to impress guests and satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Enjoy all the flavors without the guilt – these rolls maintain a healthy profile, ensuring everyone can enjoy them without worry.
Perfect Dip: The herbed mayonnaise dip elevates these rolls, making every bite irresistibly tasty, and can be adjusted to fit your dietary choices.

Chicken Salad Summer Rolls Ingredients

• For the Chicken Salad

Cooked cubed chicken – 2 cups for a protein-rich and flavorful filling; feel free to substitute with turkey or a plant-based alternative for variety.
Finely diced celery – 1/2 cup adds a satisfying crunch to your filling.
Very finely minced red onion – 2 Tbsp for a hint of sharpness that balances the flavors.
Additional mayonnaise – 1/4 cup to achieve your preferred creaminess in the chicken salad; Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute.
Salt – To taste for enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Milk – Use as needed to thin the mayonnaise for desired consistency.

• For the Summer Rolls

Spring roll wrappers – 8-10 rice paper wrappers are essential for crafting these delightful Chicken Salad Summer Rolls; store extras for future use.
Microgreens – 2 cups add freshness and crunch; spinach or lettuce can be swapped if desired.

• For the Herbed Dip

Mayonnaise – 1/2 cup serves as the creamy base for the dip; Greek yogurt can also work harmoniously here.
Fresh dill & chives – A handful of each enhances flavor; feel free to experiment with herbs like cilantro or basil for different profiles.
Lemon/lime juice – Juice of 1/2 adds a perfect zing to balance the creamy dip.

Get ready to enjoy the joy of making these Chicken Salad Summer Rolls that transform fresh ingredients into a delicious, light meal.

How to Make Chicken Salad Summer Rolls

Prepare Chicken Salad: In a medium bowl, combine the cooked cubed chicken, finely diced celery, and very finely minced red onion. Thin the additional mayonnaise with milk until it reaches your desired consistency, then mix it into the chicken until well combined. Add salt to taste.
Make the Herbed Dip: In a small mixing bowl, blend the mayonnaise with fresh dill, chives, and the juice of half a lemon or lime. Stir until smooth and season with salt to taste.
Assemble Rolls: Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip a rice paper wrapper for 8-10 seconds until it’s soft but not too soggy. Carefully set it on a clean flat surface.
Fill the Wrapper: Place a handful of microgreens and about 1/4 cup of the chicken salad mixture in the center of the wrapper. Fold in the sides and roll tightly, like you would a burrito.
Slice and Serve: Using a sharp knife, slice the roll in half and serve immediately with the herbed mayonnaise dip on the side.
Storing: If you need to make these in advance, arrange the rolls on a plate without letting them touch, cover with a damp cloth, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate.

Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for a delightful crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Salad Summer Rolls are a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken salad mixture up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful. Additionally, you can pre-chop the microgreens and store them separately (also in an airtight container) for optimal crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy your rolls, simply assemble them with soaked rice paper wrappers and the prepped chicken salad just before serving to maintain their delightful texture. By prepping ahead, you’ll save precious time while still enjoying the vibrant freshness of these delicious Chicken Salad Summer Rolls!

Expert Tips for Chicken Salad Summer Rolls

Soaking Wisely: Dip rice paper wrappers in warm water for 8-10 seconds just until soft, avoiding sogginess that can lead to tearing during assembly.
Prep Ahead: Assemble your rolls close to serving time to maintain their crisp texture; if made in advance, cover with a damp cloth to prevent sticking.
Custom Fillings: Don’t hesitate to swap chicken with turkey, tofu, or chickpeas to make these Chicken Salad Summer Rolls fit your dietary needs.
Add Crunch: Introduce texture by incorporating thinly sliced vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal.
Taste Test Dips: Make sure to adjust the herbed mayonnaise dip to your liking by experimenting with different herbs, ensuring a perfect complement to your rolls.

Storage Tips for Chicken Salad Summer Rolls

Room Temperature: These Chicken Salad Summer Rolls are best enjoyed fresh. If left at room temperature, they should be consumed within 2 hours to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking, for up to 3 days. Cover them with a damp cloth for extra moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled rolls wrapped individually in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: While these rolls are best served cold or at room temperature, if you prefer them warm, steam them briefly just until heated through while avoiding direct contact with water to keep the rice paper intact.

What to Serve with Chicken Salad Summer Rolls?

These delightful summer rolls are just the beginning of a refreshing meal that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

Crispy Asian Slaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw adds a zesty contrast, elevating the meal with vibrant colors and flavors. The crunch of cabbage and carrots complements the soft rolls perfectly.
Chilled Cucumber Soup: Light and cooling, this soup enhances the freshness of the summer rolls while providing a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
Savory Edamame: Sprinkle some sea salt on steamed edamame for a protein-packed side that adds a lovely pop of color and flavor alongside your rolls.
Mango Salad: Toss together ripe mango, red onion, and lime juice for a sweet yet tangy salad that marries beautifully with the savory chicken salad.
Lemonade Spritzer: This refreshing beverage, with a hint of mint, complements the lightness of the rolls perfectly, providing a bubbly twist that quenches your thirst.
Berry Parfait: Finish your meal on a sweet note with layers of fresh berries and yogurt, with the tartness balancing the flavors, making every bite a delightful experience.

Variations & Substitutions for Chicken Salad Summer Rolls

Feel free to get creative and adapt these rolls to suit your taste buds!

Turkey Swap: Replace chicken with diced turkey for a different protein twist that still packs a delicious punch.
Vegan Option: Use chickpeas or julienned veggies instead of chicken, and try a coconut lime dip for a fresh, plant-based take.
Crunchy Additions: Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or cucumber for extra crunch and vibrant color in your rolls. This adds another layer of texture and taste.
Herb Variability: Switch out dill and chives for fresh cilantro or mint to give your dip a completely different flavor profile. Each herb will bring its own burst of freshness!
Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the chicken salad. The heat will elevate your rolls to a new level.
Nutty Flavor: Toss in finely chopped peanuts or sesame seeds to the filling for a delightful crunch and nutty undertone, transforming the flavor even further.
Different Wraps: Experiment with other wrappers like lettuce leaves or collard greens for a low-carb, gluten-free option that still delivers on freshness.
Time-Saving Kits: Consider using pre-made salad mixes or deli-style chicken salad to speed up the preparation process without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Chicken Salad Summer Rolls Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken works best for the Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! Cooked cubed chicken is perfect for these rolls. I often use rotisserie chicken for convenience, but feel free to opt for grilled, baked, or even poached chicken for a healthier choice. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, consider using tofu or chickpeas as a delicious alternative!

How do I store leftover Chicken Salad Summer Rolls?
To keep your Chicken Salad Summer Rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you cover them with a damp cloth, they can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to enjoy them cold as they’re best that way!

Can I freeze Chicken Salad Summer Rolls?
Yes, you can freeze these rolls! Wrap each assembled roll in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag to protect them from freezer burn. They will maintain their quality for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What should I do if my rice paper wrappers tear while assembling?
Very! If your rice paper wrappers tear, don’t fret! Simply take another wrapper and dip it in warm water for just a few seconds to soften it up. Try to work quickly and handle it gently while placing your filling, ensuring the wrapper is damp but not overly wet to maintain its integrity during rolling.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your Chicken Salad Summer Rolls a few hours in advance, perfect for parties or picnics. To ensure they don’t stick together, arrange them on a plate without touching, cover with a damp cloth, and wrap in plastic. Just eat them up within a couple of hours to enjoy their crispiness!

Are Chicken Salad Summer Rolls suitable for gluten-free diets?
Indeed! These Chicken Salad Summer Rolls are naturally gluten-free since they use rice paper wrappers. Just double-check your mayonnaise for gluten-free labeling, and you’ll create a delightful meal that everyone can enjoy!