Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

If you’re looking for a delightful, hassle-free snack or lunch option, you’ve come to the right place! These Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats are not just easy to whip up—they’re packed with flavors that everyone will love. Imagine crunchy cucumbers filled with creamy chicken salad, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This recipe has become a favorite in our home, and I’m excited to share it with you!

The best part? It’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prep. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy a classic chicken salad without the heaviness of bread. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep and 5 minutes of cooking, this recipe is perfect for when you’re short on time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the fun presentation and delicious flavors, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can chill the chicken salad in advance, saving time later on busy days.
• Fresh and Healthy: Using cucumbers as boats adds crunch and freshness while keeping things light.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully.

For the Chicken Salad

• 2 teaspoons avocado oil
• 15 ounces (3 5-ounce cans) canned chicken (drained, patted dry)
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• ¾ teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 6 Tablespoons sour cream
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¾ cup (~7-8 slices) crumbled cooked bacon (I use pre-cooked store-bought bacon here)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

For the Cucumber Boats

• 4 cucumbers (peeled or unpeeled, based on your preferences; recommended that they be chilled in the refrigerator)
• Flakey sea salt
• Freshly-cracked pepper

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or chopped turkey instead of canned chicken for a different taste.
• Change up the dressing: Instead of sour cream, try Greek yogurt for a tangy twist that’s also healthy!
• Add some crunch: Toss in diced celery or bell peppers for an extra crunch that pairs well with the creamy salad.
• Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your chicken salad an exciting kick.

How to Make Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Step 1: Prepare Chicken

In a pan over medium heat, heat the avocado oil until it’s glistening. Add the canned chicken and cook for about 1 minute. This step helps warm up the chicken and bring out its flavor. Then add spices like dill and garlic powder, cooking until they become fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. This really enhances the overall taste!

Step 2: Prepare Chicken Salad

Transfer your warm chicken into a mixing bowl. Now it’s time to add some creaminess! Mix in sour cream until everything is well combined. Then fold in shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon along with apple cider vinegar. Mixing everything together ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 3: Chill Chicken Salad

Cover your bowl with a lid or foil and pop it into the refrigerator to chill for about 15 minutes. Chilling not only melds all those wonderful flavors together but also makes serving more refreshing!

Step 4: Prepare Cucumbers

While your chicken salad chills, grab those cucumbers! Cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds using a spoon; this creates little boats for your filling. Blot them dry with a paper towel to keep everything from becoming too watery.

Step 5: Prepare Cucumber Boats And Serve

Finally, remove your chilled chicken salad from the fridge and spoon generous amounts into each cucumber boat. Sprinkle flakey sea salt and crack fresh pepper on top before serving. They’re ready to enjoy!

Now you have a delicious dish that’s sure to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy these Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats at your next gathering or simply as a satisfying treat anytime you crave something yummy!

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Creating delicious Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats is a breeze, especially with these handy tips!

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for good-quality canned chicken and sharp cheddar cheese to elevate the flavor of your chicken salad. The better the ingredients, the tastier the final dish will be.
• Chill Your Salad: Allowing the chicken salad to chill for at least 15 minutes not only enhances the flavors but also makes it refreshing when served in crisp cucumber boats.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add an extra kick that many will love!
• Customize Your Cucumbers: Try different cucumber varieties like English cucumbers for a sweeter taste or mini cucumbers for bite-sized portions. This allows you to cater to different preferences!
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the cucumber boats right after filling them. If they sit too long, the cucumbers may release water and become soggy.

How to Serve Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Presenting your Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats can make all the difference in impressing your guests! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley adds color and a burst of flavor, making your dish visually appealing and tasty.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their cucumber boats for a zesty twist.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A light dusting of red pepper flakes provides both color and a hint of spice, perfect for those who enjoy a little heat.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken salad while adding more freshness.
• Vegetable Sticks: Crunchy vegetable sticks such as carrots, bell peppers, or celery pair beautifully with hummus or ranch dip for an added crunch alongside your cucumber boats.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon dressing offers a nutritious side that balances out this dish.
• Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers make for a colorful and sweet addition that contrasts nicely with savory flavors, creating a well-rounded meal.

Enjoy serving these delightful Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats at your next gathering or as a quick lunch option!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken salad in advance and store it separately from the cucumbers until you’re ready to serve. This not only saves time but also keeps your cucumbers fresh and crunchy.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftover chicken salad to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep cucumber boats separate until serving to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• It’s best not to freeze the chicken salad after it’s been mixed, as the texture may change when thawed.
• However, you can freeze cooked bacon separately; just make sure it’s well-wrapped.

Reheating

• If you choose to use frozen bacon, reheat it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
• Do not reheat the chicken salad; it’s best served cold.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats that might help you out!

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of canned chicken for Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic substitute. Just shred it and mix it with your other ingredients for a flavorful twist.

How long do Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats last in the fridge?

These delicious cucumber boats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if kept separate from each other. The chicken salad itself will last about the same time when stored in an airtight container.

Are there any alternatives for bacon in Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats?

Yes, you can use turkey bacon or even crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian option while still enjoying that delightful crunch!

What can I serve with Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats?

These cucumber boats pair wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad. They also make a great addition to picnic spreads or potluck gatherings!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats! They are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and freshness. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or a light lunch, they’re sure to delight. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!