Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick, low-carb friendly, packed with protein, and full of bold flavor. It requires minimal cooking, is easy to customize, and works beautifully for meal prep or last-minute meals.
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Chicken Bacon Ranch Lettuce Boats: A Fresh, Flavor-Packed Low-Carb Favorite
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Fresh and flavorful chicken bacon ranch lettuce boats filled with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing for a low-carb, satisfying meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/3 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 large romaine or butter lettuce leaves
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, and black pepper.
- Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Fold in shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, and green onions.
- Wash and pat dry the lettuce leaves.
- Spoon the chicken bacon ranch mixture into each lettuce leaf.
- Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.
Notes
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
- These can be prepared a few hours ahead; keep filling and lettuce separate until serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cooked chicken
Provides tender, protein-rich bites and forms the hearty base of the filling.
Bacon
Adds smoky crunch and savory depth that pairs perfectly with ranch.
Ranch dressing
Brings creamy tang and classic flavor to tie everything together.
Cheddar cheese
Adds sharpness and richness to the filling.
Green onions
Provide mild onion flavor and freshness.
Garlic powder
Enhances savory notes without overpowering the dish.
Black pepper
Adds gentle warmth and balance.
Romaine or butter lettuce leaves
Create sturdy, crisp boats that hold the filling well.
Fresh parsley (optional)
Adds color and freshness for garnish.
Directions
Begin by cooking the bacon until crisp, then crumble and set aside. If the chicken is not already cooked, season lightly and cook until tender, then dice or shred into bite-sized pieces.
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Separate and wash the lettuce leaves, then pat them dry thoroughly. Spoon the chicken bacon ranch mixture into each lettuce leaf, filling generously but neatly. Arrange on a serving platter, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
Serves 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes (if cooking chicken and bacon)
Total time: about 20 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store the chicken bacon ranch filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep lettuce separate until ready to serve to maintain crispness. This dish is best served cold or at room temperature and does not require reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Ranch Lettuce Boats
Add hot sauce or diced jalapeños for heat.
Avocado Ranch Boats
Mix in diced avocado for extra creaminess.
Buffalo Chicken Version
Toss chicken with buffalo sauce before mixing with ranch.
Greek Yogurt Ranch
Use Greek yogurt–based ranch for a lighter option.
BBQ Chicken Boats
Swap ranch for barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
Turkey Bacon Swap
Use turkey bacon for a lighter alternative.
Cheese Lovers Version
Add mozzarella or pepper jack for extra meltiness.
Meal-Prep Bowls
Serve the filling over chopped lettuce instead of whole leaves.
Keto-Friendly Upgrade
Use full-fat ranch and extra bacon for keto macros.
Party Appetizer Style
Use small lettuce leaves for bite-sized portions.
FAQs
What lettuce works best for boats?
Romaine and butter lettuce are sturdy and hold filling well.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it’s a great time-saving option.
Is this recipe low carb?
Yes, it is naturally low in carbohydrates.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the filling ahead and assemble just before serving.
Will iceberg lettuce work?
It can, but it is less sturdy and may crack.
Can I serve this warm?
It’s best cold or room temperature, but warm filling can be used if preferred.
What ranch dressing is best?
Use your favorite brand or homemade ranch.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, diced celery or tomatoes add crunch and freshness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the ranch dressing is gluten-free.
Can kids enjoy this dish?
Yes, it’s mild, familiar, and very kid-friendly.
Conclusion
Chicken Bacon Ranch Lettuce Boats are a fresh, flavorful way to enjoy a classic combination without the heaviness of traditional wraps. Quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and packed with protein, they are perfect for busy days, light dinners, or entertaining. With their crisp lettuce base and creamy, savory filling, these lettuce boats deliver satisfying comfort in a refreshing, low-carb form.
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