Buffalo Chicken Dip is a game-day favorite that brings together spicy buffalo flavors, creamy cheeses, and tender shredded chicken in one irresistible dish. Perfect for dipping chips, veggies, or even crusty bread, this dip is the ideal choice for gatherings, potlucks, and cozy nights at home. Ready in less than 30 minutes, it’s a quick recipe that packs a punch of flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into making this crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (or cooked, boneless chicken breasts)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing for a stronger flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
Preparation
- Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish, ideally a 9×9 inch or small oven-safe skillet, to keep the dip from sticking. - Mix the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are fully incorporated and creamy. - Add Chicken and Cheese
Fold in the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined and all ingredients are coated in the creamy buffalo sauce. - Bake the Dip
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula, and bake for 20 minutes or until the dip is hot and bubbling around the edges. - Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle with chopped green onions and blue cheese crumbles if desired. Serve hot with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or slices of crusty bread.
Variations
- Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally for an evenly creamy dip.
- Lighter Version: Substitute Greek yogurt for ranch dressing, use reduced-fat cheese, and skip the blue cheese to lighten up the dish.
- Buffalo Cauliflower Dip: For a vegetarian version, substitute shredded chicken with roasted cauliflower florets.
Cooking Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice by using milder buffalo sauce or adding extra for a more intense kick.
- Consistency: For an extra creamy dip, add an additional 1/4 cup of ranch dressing.
- Using Frozen Chicken: If using frozen chicken, thaw it fully before mixing to avoid excess moisture in the dip.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Buffalo Chicken Dip hot with tortilla chips, carrot sticks, celery sticks, and bread slices for a variety of dipping options.
- Make a DIY dip platter with an assortment of crunchy veggies and different dipping breads to offer a little something for everyone.
Tips
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dip a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
- Leftovers: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
- Substitutions: Substitute blue cheese dressing for ranch if you love that bold, tangy blue cheese flavor.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx. 1/4 cup)
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 16g
- Sodium: 400mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make this Buffalo Chicken Dip in advance?
Yes! Prepare the dip up to one day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake. Pop it in the oven just before serving for a warm, fresh dip.
Q: How can I make it spicier?
Add an extra tablespoon of buffalo sauce, or mix in a dash of cayenne pepper to boost the heat level.
Q: What can I serve with Buffalo Chicken Dip besides chips?
Celery sticks, baby carrots, cucumber rounds, and bell pepper slices are great options for a low-carb twist. Crusty bread or pita chips also pair perfectly!
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Dip is the ultimate party appetizer that’s easy to make and loved by all. Its creamy, spicy, and savory flavors will make it the star of your next gathering, game day, or snack time. Give this recipe a try for a fast, flavorful dip that won’t disappoint!