Buffalo Chicken Dip is a warm and cheesy treat that packs a spicy kick! It’s made with shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty buffalo sauce—perfect for game day or snacking with friends.
This dip is a crowd-pleaser! I like to serve it with crunchy tortilla chips or crispy veggies. Just remember, it disappears quickly, so maybe make a little extra… or a lot! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works best for easy prep. If you prefer, you can use canned chicken or leftovers from a previous meal. Just make sure it’s well-drained!
Cream Cheese: You’ll want the cream cheese to be softened for easy mixing. If you’re looking for a lighter option, go for low-fat cream cheese. It still gives a nice creamy texture.
Buffalo Sauce: If you like it hotter, add more buffalo sauce or opt for a different brand with a spicier kick. If you’re not a big fan of spice, try a sweet barbecue sauce for a gentler flavor.
Ranch Dressing: This adds a creamy tang. If ranch dressing isn’t your style, blue cheese dressing is a great alternative for that classic buffalo flavor, though it can be stronger.
Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for more flavor. You can also mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for an extra zing!
How Do I Get My Dip Creamy and Smooth?
Mixing well is key for a creamy Buffalo Chicken Dip. Here’s how to ensure it comes out smooth:
- Let your cream cheese sit out for about 20 minutes before mixing. It should be soft enough to blend easily.
- Combine the chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing in a medium bowl with a hand mixer or spatula until smooth.
- If it seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk or more ranch to help with the consistency.
Cooking time matters, too! Baking the dip just until hot and bubbly gives it that perfect creamy texture without drying it out.
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing if preferred)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped, for garnish
- Tortilla chips, celery sticks, and carrot sticks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Buffalo Chicken Dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 20-25 minutes to bake, making a total of around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for snacks or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dip cooks evenly and gets nice and bubbly when it’s ready!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, ranch dressing, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Using a fork or spatula, mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth.
3. Prepare for Baking:
Take the chicken mixture and transfer it to an oven-safe dish or skillet. Spread it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
4. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and the crumbled blue cheese (if you’re using it) over the top of your chicken mixture. This creates a delicious cheesy layer when it bakes!
5. Bake:
Put your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for it to be hot and bubbly, with the cheese on top melted and slightly golden.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh burst of flavor. Now it’s time to enjoy your dip!
7. Perfect for Dipping:
Serve your hot Buffalo Chicken Dip with tortilla chips, crispy celery sticks, and carrot sticks for one amazing snack. Enjoy!
Enjoy your spicy, creamy Buffalo Chicken Dip!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a quick and convenient option. Just shred the chicken and you’re good to go, saving time on cooking.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dip, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or use a mild wing sauce instead. For extra spice, consider adding some cayenne pepper or hot sauce directly into the mix!
Can I Make This Dip in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dip up to a day ahead. Just assemble it in an oven-safe dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Other Dipping Options Can I Use?
Besides tortilla chips, you can serve this dip with crunchy veggies like bell pepper slices, cucumber sticks, or pita chips. It’s versatile, so feel free to get creative!
