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+ servings

Ultimate Low-Carb Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Rose
If you’re looking for a fresh, satisfying, and keto-friendly meal, these cucumber boats check every box. Crisp cucumber halves are filled with a creamy, protein-packed chicken salad that’s bursting with flavor, crunch, and balance — perfect for low-carb lunches, light dinners, meal prep, or party appetizers.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Appetizer, Lunch
Cuisine American, Keto
Servings 2 servings
Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • spoon
  • knife
  • paper towel

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup Cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (full-fat for keto)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp Fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 1/4 cup Celery, finely diced
  • 2 tbsp Green onions (scallions), thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp Chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1 tbsp Sugar-free dried cranberries (optional)
  • 2 slices Turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 pcs Persian or English cucumbers

Instructions
 

  • Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and pat them dry. Slice each cucumber lengthwise. Using a small spoon, gently scoop out the seeds from the center to create a shallow 'boat.' Set aside on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
    Pro tip: Lightly salt watery cucumbers and let rest 10 minutes, then blot dry.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended to create a creamy, tangy base.
  • Add the shredded chicken, celery, green onions, chopped nuts, turkey bacon, and dried cranberries (if using). Gently fold until evenly combined.
    Taste and adjust seasoning with lemon juice or salt if needed.
  • Using a spoon, generously fill each cucumber half with the chicken salad mixture. Smooth the tops or mound slightly for presentation.
  • Serve immediately for the freshest texture, or refrigerate up to 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Best enjoyed cold and crisp.

Notes

Pro tips: Use cold chicken to keep the salad firm. Chop ingredients finely for better texture. Toast nuts to enhance flavor. Control cucumber moisture to prevent soggy boats. Assemble just before serving if prepping ahead. Enjoy variations like avocado chicken salad, spicy keto, Mediterranean style, herb-forward, or buffalo chicken boats.

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 14gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 360mgPotassium: 280mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1.2mg
Keyword healthy appetizer, keto cucumber boats, low-carb chicken salad, meal prep
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