Cilantro and Lime Chicken Scoops (Print)

Tangy chicken dip with fresh cilantro, lime, and melted cheese. Perfect for parties with tortilla scoops.

# What you'll 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 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 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 pepper. Mix until well blended.
04 - Transfer the mixture to a greased 1-quart baking dish and spread evenly.
05 - Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
06 - Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges. Serve warm with tortilla scoops.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It comes together in under 45 minutes, most of that hands-off baking time.
  • The tangy lime and creamy cheese balance perfectly with the heat from the jalapeño.
  • You can make it ahead and just pop it in the oven when guests arrive.
  • It works as an appetizer, a game day snack, or even a casual weeknight dinner with extra tortillas.
02 -
  • Soften the cream cheese fully or you'll end up with clumps no matter how hard you stir.
  • Taste the mixture before baking, it should be bold and tangy since the oven will mellow the flavors slightly.
  • If the dip looks too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or lime juice to loosen it up.
03 -
  • Use a hand mixer to blend the cream cheese and sour cream first, then fold in the chicken and vegetables for an ultra-smooth base.
  • Toast your cumin in a dry pan for 30 seconds before adding it, the aroma will deepen and the flavor will pop.
  • If you want a little crunch on top, sprinkle extra shredded cheese over the dip in the last 5 minutes of baking.
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