Cilantro and Lime Chicken Scoops (Printable version)

Tangy chicken dip with cilantro, lime, and jalapeño. Perfect party appetizer served warm with tortilla scoops.

# Needed ingredients:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast

→ Vegetables & Herbs

02 - 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
05 - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

→ Citrus

06 - Zest and juice of 2 limes

→ Dairy

07 - 1/2 cup sour cream
08 - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
09 - 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

→ Spices & Seasonings

10 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
11 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
12 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ To Serve

15 - 1 bag tortilla scoops (corn chips)
16 - Additional cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

# How to make it:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, red onion, garlic, jalapeño, and cilantro.
03 - Add the lime zest and juice, sour cream, cream cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
04 - Transfer the mixture to a greased 1-quart baking dish and spread evenly.
05 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
06 - Remove from oven and let cool for 2 to 3 minutes.
07 - Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges. Serve warm with tortilla scoops.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It comes together in less than an hour but tastes like you put in way more effort.
  • The lime and cilantro keep it from feeling heavy even though it's loaded with cheese.
  • You can make it ahead and just pop it in the oven when guests arrive.
  • Everyone always asks for the recipe, which honestly never gets old.
02 -
  • Softening the cream cheese completely is non-negotiable, or you'll end up with chunks that refuse to blend in.
  • Taste the jalapeño before adding it, some are much hotter than others and you can always add more heat but you can't take it away.
  • If the dip looks a little dry going into the oven, don't worry, the cheeses will melt and make it creamy again.
03 -
  • Use a rotisserie chicken to cut your prep time in half, and the extra seasoning from the skin adds a bonus layer of flavor.
  • Zest your limes before you juice them, it's way easier and you won't waste any of that fragrant oil.
  • If the top isn't getting golden enough, switch your oven to broil for the last 2 minutes, but watch it closely so it doesn't burn.
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