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Keto Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Cups - Fresh, Crunchy, and Perfect for Snacking

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large English cucumbers (or 4 Persian cucumbers), washed
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or finely chopped (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise (use avocado oil mayo for cleaner ingredients)
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream (adds tang and creaminess)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2–3 teaspoons ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade; check for added sugars)
  • 1 celery stalk, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons red onion, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional but recommended)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional add-ins: 1/4 cup diced crisp bacon, 1/4 avocado (diced), 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, a pinch of smoked paprika

Method
 

  1. Prep the cucumbers: Cut each cucumber into 1-inch rounds. Use a small spoon or melon baller to scoop out a shallow well in the center of each piece, leaving the bottom intact. Don’t scoop all the way through.
  2. Drain any excess moisture: Lightly sprinkle the cucumber cups with salt and place them upside down on a paper towel while you make the chicken salad. This helps keep them crisp.
  3. Make the dressing base: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and ranch seasoning. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. Fold in the mix-ins: Add shredded chicken, celery, red onion, dill, and chives. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Customize: If using bacon, avocado, or spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika, fold them in now. Keep the avocado pieces small so they sit neatly in the cups.
  6. Fill the cups: Pat the cucumber rounds dry. Spoon the chicken salad into each cup, packing it slightly so it holds. You want a small mound on top without spilling over.
  7. Garnish: Finish with a sprinkle of dill, chives, or a crack of black pepper. A light dusting of paprika looks great for presentation.
  8. Serve or chill: Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or chill for 15–20 minutes to let the flavors meld.