Best Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy, spicy, and cheesy crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for game days, parties, or any get-together. It’s made with shredded chicken, plenty of tangy buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and a good sprinkle of melted cheddar and blue cheese that all blend together into one delicious dip.
I love how easy this dip is to throw together, especially when guests arrive unexpectedly. I usually mix everything in one bowl, pop it in the oven, and before I know it, the whole house smells amazing. The way the buffalo sauce adds a little kick makes it exciting, but the creamy cheeses smooth it all out, so it’s not too spicy for everyone.
My favorite way to serve this dip is with crunchy celery sticks and crispy tortilla chips because they’re perfect for scooping up that cheesy, chicken-packed goodness. It’s one of those recipes that disappears fast, and I’m always happy to make it again because everyone keeps asking for more!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken because it’s already cooked and easy to shred. You can also use canned chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the dip its creamy texture. Make sure it’s fully softened to mix well. For a lighter version, try using Neufchatel or a dairy-free cream cheese.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice for that perfect spicy tang. If you want it less spicy, reduce the amount or mix in a bit of honey for a touch of sweetness.
Cheese: Cheddar adds sharpness and meltiness, while mozzarella adds extra gooeyness. Blue cheese crumbles give a bold kick but can be left out if you’re not a fan or want a milder dip.
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: This adds creaminess and balances the heat. You can swap ranch for blue cheese dressing or even plain Greek yogurt for a fresher taste.
How Can I Make the Dip Smooth and Perfectly Bubbly?
Getting the dip creamy and heated evenly makes all the difference. Here’s what helps me:
- Soften the cream cheese completely before mixing. Try microwaving it for about 20 seconds if it’s too firm.
- Mix all the sauces and cream cheese until smooth before adding chicken and cheese. This avoids lumps.
- Spread the dip evenly in the baking dish for consistent heating.
- Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until you see bubbling and golden edges. This means it’s hot through and the cheese is melted nicely.
- Let it cool a bit before serving so it thickens slightly and is easy to scoop.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish (8×8-inch or similar) – perfect size for spreading the dip evenly and baking it through.
- Mixing bowl – great for combining cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and chicken smoothly.
- Spoon or spatula – helps you mix ingredients well and spread the dip in the baking dish.
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot baking dish when taking it out of the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shredded chicken for cooked ground turkey to switch up the protein while keeping it light.
- Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky, crispy flavor that pairs great with the spicy dip.
- Mix in diced jalapeños for extra heat if you like it spicy.
- Toss in some chopped spinach or artichoke hearts to add a fresh, veggie twist and extra texture.
Best Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing for a stronger flavor)
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- ¼ cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Crackers, tortilla chips, or celery sticks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, so plan for roughly 30-35 minutes total. It’s a quick and easy warm dip that comes together fast, perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Mix the Base:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and buffalo wing sauce. Stir these together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Add Chicken and Cheese:
Stir in the shredded chicken, half of the cheddar cheese, and the mozzarella cheese (if using). Mix everything well so the flavors are evenly spread.
3. Bake the Dip:
Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish and spread the mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is hot and bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted and golden.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Carefully remove the dip from the oven. Sprinkle blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onions over the top if you like. Serve warm with crackers, tortilla chips, or celery sticks for dipping. Enjoy your tasty buffalo chicken dip!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before shredding. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting to speed up the process. Properly thawed chicken mixes better and heats evenly in the dip.
How Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the dip mixture up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. When ready, simply spread it in the baking dish and bake as directed. This saves you time and lets the flavors meld beautifully.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the dip in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! Reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce for a milder dip, or add extra if you like it spicy. You can also mix in a little honey or ranch dressing to tame the heat without losing the buffalo flavor.
