Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and spicy appetizer that’s always a hit at parties, game days, or casual get-togethers. It combines the tangy heat of buffalo sauce with tender shredded chicken, rich cream cheese, and melted cheese to create the perfect dipping experience. I love serving this with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or even crusty bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how quick and easy this dip comes together with just a few simple ingredients. It’s packed with flavor, super creamy, and has just the right kick of heat. Whether I’m hosting a party or just craving something indulgent, this recipe always hits the spot. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and reheat without losing its creamy texture.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Shredded cooked chicken
- Cream cheese, softened
- Buffalo wing sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- Ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: blue cheese crumbles, sliced green onions
Directions
- I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, I combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch or blue cheese dressing until it’s smooth and well blended.
- Then, I fold in the shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- I spread the mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- I bake it for 20–25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Once out of the oven, I let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with green onions or blue cheese crumbles if I’m feeling fancy.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves about 8 people as an appetizer. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prepare and 20–25 minutes to bake, so it’s ready in under 40 minutes total.
Variations
- I sometimes use rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor.
- If I want a smokier flavor, I swap out half of the cheddar for smoked gouda or pepper jack.
- To lighten it up, I’ve used Greek yogurt instead of ranch or cream cheese—it still comes out creamy and delicious.
- For an extra kick, I add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- I’ve even made this dip in a slow cooker, letting everything melt together on low for a few hours.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I just microwave it in 30-second intervals until warm, or pop it back in the oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes. If it thickens too much in the fridge, I stir in a splash of milk or dressing before reheating.
FAQs
How spicy is Buffalo Chicken Dip?
It has a moderate heat, depending on the buffalo sauce used. I find it easy to adjust by using mild or hot sauces based on preference.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, I often assemble it ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. When I’m ready to serve, I just bake it as directed.
What’s the best chicken to use?
I like using rotisserie chicken for ease, but any cooked and shredded chicken works—baked, boiled, or even canned.
Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. I combine all the ingredients and heat on low for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until hot and bubbly.
What can I serve with Buffalo Chicken Dip?
I usually serve it with tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, or toasted baguette slices. It’s great with crunchy or soft dippers.
Conclusion
This Buffalo Chicken Dip is a go-to recipe that never disappoints. It’s spicy, creamy, cheesy, and totally addictive. I always make it for gatherings or when I just want a comforting snack with big flavor. It’s simple to prep, easy to customize, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Print
Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and spicy appetizer made with shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and cheddar. Perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Optional: blue cheese crumbles
- Optional: sliced green onions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch or blue cheese dressing until smooth.
- Fold in the shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Spread the mixture into a baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the dip is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with green onions or blue cheese crumbles if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience.
- Try smoked gouda or pepper jack for a different cheesy flavor.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add diced jalapeños or cayenne for extra heat.
- Can be made in a slow cooker on low for 2–3 hours.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
