Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats are a delightful and inventive twist on the classic chicken salad. These refreshing cucumber boats are filled with a creamy and flavorful chicken salad mixture, featuring savory bacon, tangy sour cream, and zesty seasonings. It’s a low-carb and keto-friendly dish that is perfect for a light lunch, snack, or appetizer.

Why Make Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats offer a delicious combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings without weighing you down. They are quick and easy to assemble, making them ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings. Plus, they are versatile and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

How to Make Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and patted dry canned chicken with avocado oil to moisten and flavor the chicken.

Mix the Seasonings:

1. Add dried dill, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt to the chicken. Stir well to evenly coat the chicken with the spices.

Add Creaminess and Flavor:

1. Stir in the sour cream, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and crumbled cooked bacon until well combined.
2. Drizzle with apple cider vinegar and mix again for a tangy touch, enhancing the ranch-like flavor.

Prepare the Cucumbers:

1. Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds, creating a hollow center in each cucumber half, turning them into ‘boats.’

Fill the Boats:

1. Spoon the bacon ranch chicken salad mixture into the hollowed-out centers of the cucumber boats, dividing it evenly among them.

Garnish:

1. Sprinkle the filled cucumber boats with flakey sea salt and freshly-cracked pepper for added flavor.

Serve:

1. Enjoy these bacon ranch chicken salad cucumber boats fresh for a delightful combination of cool, crunchy cucumbers and creamy, flavorful chicken salad topping.

Garnishes

• Flakey sea salt
• Freshly-cracked pepper

Serving Suggestions

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats can be served as a light lunch, snack, or appetizer. They are perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a refreshing addition to your meal. Serve them alongside a green salad or fresh fruit for a complete and satisfying dish.

Storage Info

These cucumber boats are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release some moisture over time, so drain any excess liquid before serving leftovers.

Some Techniques or Tips

• To make the chicken salad ahead of time, prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Fill the cucumber boats just before serving to maintain their freshness.
• Feel free to customize the chicken salad with additional ingredients such as diced celery, chopped green onions, or sliced almonds for extra crunch and flavor.

Variation

For a lighter version of this dish, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Additionally, you can add chopped fresh herbs such as chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQs about Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

1. Can I use fresh cooked chicken instead of canned chicken?
   • Yes, you can use cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken instead of canned chicken. Simply shred or chop the cooked chicken and use it in the recipe as directed.
2. Can I make these cucumber boats in advance for a party?
   • Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad filling and hollow out the cucumbers in advance. Store the filling and cucumbers separately in the refrigerator, and assemble the boats just before serving to maintain their crispness.
3. Can I omit the bacon for a vegetarian version of this dish?
   • Yes, you can omit the bacon for a vegetarian version of this dish. You can also substitute it with vegetarian bacon or omit it altogether for a lighter option.

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