Best Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy, spicy, and cheesy appetizer that’s always a hit at parties, game days, and family gatherings. If you love the bold flavors of Buffalo wings but want something easier to prepare, this dip is the perfect choice.
This recipe is packed with tender shredded chicken, tangy Buffalo sauce, rich cream cheese, and gooey melted cheese. It’s simple to make and incredibly delicious. Whether you serve it with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers, this dip will be the star of your snack table.
Ingredients Needed
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works best)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Add-Ons for Extra Flavor:
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Crumbled blue cheese (for extra tang)
- Jalapeños (for more spice)
- Minced garlic (for depth of flavor)
Equipment Required
To make this Buffalo Chicken Dip, you’ll need:
✔️ Mixing bowl
✔️ Hand mixer or spoon
✔️ Oven-safe baking dish
✔️ Measuring cups and spoons
✔️ Spatula
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
- If using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and shred the meat using two forks.
- If cooking from scratch, boil or bake boneless, skinless chicken breasts, then shred them.
- Place the shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients
- Add the softened cream cheese, Buffalo sauce, and ranch (or blue cheese) dressing to the bowl.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Step 3: Baking the Dip
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top for a gooey finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.
Step 4: Serving Suggestions
- Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or crumbled blue cheese.
- Serve with tortilla chips, celery sticks, crackers, or pita bread.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Slow Cooker Method
- Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours or until heated through.
- Stir occasionally and serve directly from the slow cooker.
Stovetop Method
- Mix ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir continuously until the dip is hot and creamy.
- Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Dip
✔ Use fresh, high-quality cheese for the best melt.
✔ Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Buffalo sauce.
✔ Mix in some crispy bacon for extra crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Overcooking the Dip
Baking too long can make the cheese oily and separate. Keep an eye on it!
❌ Using the Wrong Type of Chicken
Avoid canned chicken—it lacks texture. Rotisserie or freshly shredded chicken is best.
Serving Suggestions
Best Dippers for Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Tortilla chips
- Crackers
- Celery sticks
- Carrot sticks
- Pretzels
Pairing with Other Appetizers
- Loaded nachos
- Mozzarella sticks
- Chicken wings
- Sliders
Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
- Place any leftover dip in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Best Way to Reheat for Fresh Taste
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
Healthier Variations
Low-Fat and Keto-Friendly Options
- Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese.
- Opt for low-fat cheese.
- Swap ranch dressing for plain yogurt.
Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free Alternatives
- Use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese.
- Ensure Buffalo sauce and ranch dressing are gluten-free.
FAQs about Best Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
1. What ingredients do I need for Buffalo Chicken Dip?
To make Buffalo Chicken Dip, you will need cooked shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, hot sauce (preferably Buffalo-style), shredded cheddar cheese, and optional garnishes like blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onions.
2. Can I make Buffalo Chicken Dip in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily make Buffalo Chicken Dip in a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and set it to low for about 2-3 hours or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
3. What are some serving suggestions for Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Buffalo Chicken Dip can be served with a variety of dippers such as celery sticks, carrot sticks, tortilla chips, or baguette slices. It’s perfect for game days, parties, or family gatherings.
4. How can I make this dip spicier or milder?
To adjust the heat level, increase or decrease the amount of hot sauce. For a milder version, you can also add more ranch dressing or cream cheese to dilute the spiciness.
5. Is Buffalo Chicken Dip gluten-free?
Buffalo Chicken Dip can be gluten-free, but ensure all your ingredients, especially the ranch dressing and hot sauce, are labeled gluten-free. Cross-contamination should also be avoided if you’re serving guests with gluten sensitivities.
6. Can I prepare Buffalo Chicken Dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly, or warm it up in the slow cooker.
7. How long can I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Leftover Buffalo Chicken Dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warmed through.
Enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Dip and make it a hit at your next gathering!
