Puerto Rican Dip de Pollo (Chicken Dip)

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This Dip de Pollo (Chicken Dip) is a delicious creamy fusion of shredded chicken, cream cheese, chopped scallions, red onions, cilantro, mayo and simple spices. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer.

Puerto Rican Dip de Pollo (Chicken Dip) served in a white bowl with a side of Ritz crackers.

While we savor this delightful dip year-round, it holds a special place during Puerto Rico’s festive holidays. Served alongside other appetizers like antipasto de atun, alcapurrias (green banana fried fritters), bolitas de queso (Cheesballs), escabeche de guineos (Pickled Green Bananas), ensalada de pulpo (Octopus Salad), Ensalada de Carrucho (Conch Salad) and ensalada de camarones (Shrimp Salad). It’s made with humble ingredients, and despite its simplicity, this Dip de Pollo Puertorriqueño, effortlessly comes together in moments.

It’s also a lifesaver for entertaining, particularly when time is scarce, and a multitude of dishes need your attention. Whether you’re navigating a busy schedule or welcoming unexpected guests, this dip ensures a quick and savory solution without compromising on flavor, a true win-win for any occasion! Also, although not a Puerto Rican appetizer, if you’re looking for more easy, delicious appetizers, these irresistible Boursin cheese stuffed mushrooms are a lifesaver during the holiday season too!

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Reasons to Love this Recipe
Ingredients
Substitutions and Variations
Instructions
Expert Tips
Recipe FAQs
Other Popular Holiday Dishes
📖 Recipe

Reasons to Love this Recipe

Simplicity at Its Best: This Puerto Rican Chicken Dip is a simple and straightforward recipe. A harmonious blend of shredded chicken, cream cheese, scallions, red onions, mayonnaise, cilantro and spices creates a yummy taste sensation.

Versatility in Occasions: Whether it’s a casual gathering or a festive holiday celebration in Puerto Rico, Dip de Pollo fits every occasion. Its adaptability makes it a reliable and crowd-pleasing choice for any get-together.

Effortless Entertaining: In the chaos of hosting, this Dip de Pollo comes to the rescue. With minimal effort, you can serve up an easy flavorful appetizer, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities and less time in the kitchen.

Unexpected Guest Ready: When unexpected company knocks, this dip is your secret weapon. Quick to assemble, it ensures you always have a delicious treat on hand to share, turning impromptu gatherings into memorable moments.

Ingredients

Substitutions and Variations

Crackers: While Ritz crackers are the classic pairing for this dip, feel free to get creative with your choice. Any crackers on hand or your personal favorite will complement the flavors just as well.

Chicken Breast: Opt for the convenience of classic canned chicken for a swift appetizer or snack. However, for an exceptional flavor boost, consider using freshly boiled chicken breasts.

Peppers – Enhance the flavor of this dip with chopped green or red peppers for a delightful twist. Elevate it further by incorporating a common addition, pimiento morrones (roasted red peppers)! This extra delicious addition takes this dip to the next level.

Cilantro – If you are not a fan of cilantro, substitute with a teaspoon of fresh parsley or exclude completely.

Instructions

Shredded chicken breast in a white bowl with cream cheese on top.

Step 1: Open the can of chicken and press the lid against it to drain the liquid. Add the chicken to a bowl, shred it using a fork. Add the cream cheese and incorporate well into the chicken.

Shredded chicken breast in a white bowl with mayonnaise on top.

Step 2: Incorporate the mayo well to combine.

The scallions, red onion, cilantro and spices added to the chicken.

Step 3: Add the onion, scallions, cilantro and spices.

All the ingredients mixed in to make the Dip de Poll.

Step 4: Mix the ingredients really well into the chicken. Dip is ready. Serve with crackers.

Expert Tips

Canned Chicken – Make sure to drain the liquid really well from the can, otherwise the dip will be watery.

Cilantro – Exclude the cilantro if you do not like it, instead add half a teaspoon of chopped parsley.

Fresh Chicken Breast – If using fresh chicken breast, use one breast and cook for 20 minutes in a pot of boiling water then shred the breast using two forks.

Recipe FAQs

Can You Make this Dip in Advance?

Certainly! A great advantage of preparing this dip is its make-ahead flexibility. Feel free to whip it up 1 to 2 days before serving for added convenience.

Is this Chicken Dip an American Dip?

This dip is a Puerto Rican version of a chicken dip commonly served throughout the holidays. Its simplicity has made it a favorite!

How to Store?

Store in a regular plastic container and consume within 3 days.