Spring recipes are all about freshness, color, and ease—and Chicken Salad Easter Rolls check every box. These rolls are light yet satisfying, creamy but balanced, and packed with bright, seasonal flavor. Tender chicken salad wrapped in soft rolls makes this dish feel special without being complicated.

This recipe is perfect for Easter brunch, spring lunches, baby showers, weekend gatherings, or simple weekday meals when you want something fresh but filling. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and doesn’t require turning on the oven—ideal for warmer days.

If you’re looking for a make-ahead, meal-prep-friendly option that feels festive without being fussy, these chicken salad rolls deliver.

They’re foolproof, crowd-pleasing, and adaptable to many diets and occasions. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a spring staple in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Measure flour accurately to avoid a dry dough.

Let dough rest briefly if it resists shaping.

Shape bunny ears slightly thicker to prevent over-browning.

Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and uneven bottoms.

Bake one tray at a time for consistent results.

Ingredients

Cooked chicken breast

Mayonnaise

Greek yogurt

Celery

Green onions

Fresh dill

Dijon mustard

Lemon juice

Salt

Black pepper

Soft dinner rolls or slider buns

Butter lettuce or romaine leaves

Ingredients Guide (Ingredient Breakdown)

Cooked Chicken Breast
This is the base of the recipe. Use baked, poached, rotisserie, or leftover chicken. Finely chopped or shredded chicken creates the best texture and helps the salad hold together.

Mayonnaise
Adds richness and classic chicken salad creaminess. Use full-fat for the best flavor, or light mayo if you prefer a lighter option.

Greek Yogurt
Balances the mayo and keeps the salad fresh and tangy. It also helps lighten the texture without sacrificing creaminess.

Celery
Provides crunch and freshness. Finely dice it so it blends evenly without overpowering each bite.

Green Onions
Add mild onion flavor without sharpness. They brighten the salad and complement the herbs beautifully.

Fresh Dill
Essential for spring flavor. Dill adds a clean, slightly grassy note that pairs perfectly with chicken and lemon.

Dijon Mustard
Enhances depth and adds subtle tang. It sharpens the flavors without making the salad taste mustard-forward.

Lemon Juice
Brightens everything. Fresh lemon juice keeps the chicken salad from tasting heavy and balances the creamy ingredients.

Salt and Black Pepper
Simple seasoning that brings all the flavors together. Adjust gradually to taste.

Soft Dinner Rolls or Slider Buns
Choose pillowy rolls that won’t overpower the filling. Brioche or potato rolls work especially well.

Lettuce Leaves
Adds freshness and prevents the rolls from becoming soggy. Butter lettuce is especially tender and spring-appropriate.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Finely chop or shred the cooked chicken and place it in a large mixing bowl.

Add mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.

Stir gently until the chicken is evenly coated.

Add chopped celery, green onions, and fresh dill.

Season with salt and black pepper, then mix until well combined.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes for best flavor.

Slice rolls horizontally without cutting all the way through.

Line each roll with a lettuce leaf.

Spoon chicken salad generously onto each roll.

Close gently and serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

Variations & Customizations

Classic Southern Style: Add finely chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra richness

Grapes & Nuts: Mix in halved red grapes and chopped pecans for sweet crunch

Low-Carb Option: Serve in lettuce cups instead of rolls

Dairy-Free Version: Use all mayo and skip the Greek yogurt

Spicy Upgrade: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños

Herb Swap: Replace dill with parsley or chives for a milder flavor

Serving Guide (Detailed)

Easter Brunch Spread
Serve these rolls alongside fresh fruit, deviled eggs, and pastries. They balance heavier holiday dishes perfectly.

Spring Luncheon or Shower
Ideal for baby showers, bridal showers, or ladies’ lunches. Pair with iced tea or lemonade.

Weekday Lunches
Make ahead and enjoy chilled for a refreshing midday meal. Add a side salad or fruit cup.

Picnic or Outdoor Gathering
Easy to transport and serve cold. Wrap individually for stress-free hosting.

Party Sliders
Use mini rolls and serve as bite-sized party food. Great for buffets and potlucks.

Light Dinner Option
Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple soup for a satisfying but light evening meal.

Storage & Reheating Guide

Room Temperature
Do not leave assembled rolls out longer than 1 hour, especially in warm weather.

Refrigerator
Store chicken salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Assemble rolls just before serving for best texture.

Freezer
Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy dressing can separate when thawed.

Reheating
This recipe is best served cold or at cool room temperature. Do not microwave.

Shelf Life Tips
Always use fresh chicken and keep ingredients chilled to extend freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the Chicken: Can make the salad mushy—mix gently

Skipping the Chill Time: Resting improves flavor and texture

Using Dry Rolls: Soft, fresh rolls make all the difference

Overseasoning Early: Season gradually and taste as you go

Too Much Dressing: Start light and add more only if needed

Serving Too Far Ahead: Assemble close to serving time for best results

Expert Tips for Best Results

Finely chopping the chicken creates a smoother, more cohesive filling

Chill the salad before serving to let flavors meld properly

Use fresh herbs for the brightest spring flavor

Add lemon juice last and adjust carefully to avoid overpowering

Line rolls with lettuce to prevent sogginess

Make the filling a day ahead for stress-free hosting

FAQs

Can I make chicken salad Easter rolls ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the chicken salad up to 24 hours ahead and assemble rolls just before serving.

What’s the best chicken to use?
Rotisserie chicken is convenient, but any cooked, well-seasoned chicken works.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free rolls or serve the chicken salad in lettuce cups.

How long does chicken salad last in the fridge?
Stored properly, it stays fresh for up to 3 days.

Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, but drain it well and shred finely for best texture.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It’s meal-prep friendly when stored unassembled.

Can I add fruit to this recipe?
Yes. Grapes or diced apples add sweetness and crunch.

What can I substitute for dill?
Parsley or chives are great alternatives if you don’t like dill.

Final Thoughts / Conclusion

Chicken Salad Easter Rolls are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. They’re light, flavorful, and flexible enough for everything from holiday brunches to weekday lunches.

This recipe is easy to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and ideal for spring entertaining or meal prep. If you try it, save it for later, share it with friends, and let me know how you customized yours.