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Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Crisp, refreshing cucumber halves generously stuffed with a creamy, savory mixture of shredded chicken, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and herb-packed ranch dressing. A perfect low-carb, keto-friendly lunch or snack.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 boats
Course: Appetizer, Lunch, Snack
Cuisine: American, Keto, Low Carb
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base
  • 2 large English cucumbers washed and halved lengthwise
Chicken Salad Filling
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or finely chopped
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 0.5 cup sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 0.33 cup creamy ranch dressing add more if needed
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly cracked
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped, optional for garnish
  • 1 pinch salt to taste

Equipment

  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp knife
  • Small spoon or melon baller
  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to cool, then crumble into small pieces.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, and freshly grated cheddar cheese.
  3. Add the ranch dressing and black pepper to the bowl. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated. Adjust seasoning or add more dressing if a creamier texture is desired.
  4. Cut the English cucumbers in half lengthwise. Using a small spoon, scrape out the seeds and watery center to create a hollow 'boat'. Pat the inside dry with a paper towel.
  5. Generously scoop the chicken salad mixture into the hollowed-out cucumbers, pressing gently so it mounds on top.
  6. Garnish with extra black pepper and fresh chopped chives if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For meal prep, store the chicken salad mixture and the hollowed-out cucumbers in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble just before eating to prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy.