Cilantro and Lime Chicken Scoops (Printable)

Tangy chicken dip with cilantro, lime, and melted cheese. Perfect party appetizer served with tortilla scoops.

# What You Need:

→ 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 of 2 limes
07 - Juice of 2 limes

→ Dairy

08 - 1/2 cup sour cream
09 - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
10 - 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

→ Spices & Seasonings

11 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
12 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
13 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
14 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
15 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ To Serve

16 - 1 bag tortilla scoops (corn chips)
17 - Additional cilantro for garnish
18 - Lime wedges for garnish

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, red onion, garlic, jalapeño, and cilantro.
03 - Add lime zest, lime 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 slightly. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges.
07 - Serve warm with tortilla scoops.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in under an hour but tastes like you labored over something complicated and impressive.
  • The lime and cilantro keep it bright and refreshing, never heavy or dull even though it is rich and creamy.
  • Tortilla scoops turn it into a no-fuss party dish that practically serves itself while you enjoy your guests.
02 -
  • Soften the cream cheese completely before mixing or you will end up with lumps that never quite disappear no matter how much you stir.
  • Do not skip the lime zest, the juice alone is not enough to carry the bright, citrusy flavor this dip is known for.
03 -
  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add a little extra flavor from the seasoned skin.
  • Zest the limes before juicing them, it is much easier and you will get more fragrant oils that way.
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