This Buffalo Chicken Dip is a tasty mix of shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and spicy buffalo sauce. It’s perfect for game day or any get-together!
Trust me, you’ll want to keep a spoon handy for this one! I like to serve it with crunchy chips or crispy veggies for a cute and tasty treat. Enjoy the flavor explosion!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my favorite for this recipe. It’s quick and has great flavor. If you’re in a hurry, leftover chicken or even canned chicken works too!
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is the classic choice, but you can adjust the heat by using a milder sauce or adding extra hot sauce if you like it spicy. For a lighter option, consider using a buffalo seasoning mix.
Cream Cheese: This is key for a creamy texture. If you want a lower-fat option, try Neufchâtel cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute for a healthier twist.
Dressings: Ranch is popular, but blue cheese dressing adds a great tangy flavor. You can swap one for the other based on your preference or use yogurt as a lighter option.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. However, you can mix in Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even mozzarella for a milder taste.
How Can You Ensure Your Buffalo Chicken Dip is Nice and Creamy?
The key to a smooth, creamy dip is making sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
- Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before using it.
- Use a hand mixer or fork to cream it well, mixing it with the buffalo sauce and dressing until smooth.
- Add in chicken and cheese gradually, mixing thoroughly to keep the dip creamy.
Don’t rush the baking! Bake until just bubbly to avoid overcooking and drying it out. Enjoy creating that perfect creamy dip!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 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
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Celery sticks and carrot sticks (for serving)
- Tortilla chips or crackers (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Buffalo Chicken Dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 to 25 minutes to bake. That means you can have this crowd-pleaser ready in just about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to cook your dip evenly.
2. Mix the Base:
In a medium bowl, take the softened cream cheese and combine it with the buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing. You can use a spatula or a hand mixer to mix it until it’s nice and smooth. This is where the flavors start to come together!
3. Add Chicken and Cheese:
Stir in the shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled blue cheese if you’re using it. Make sure everything is mixed well and evenly distributed—this is what makes every bite delicious!
4. Prepare for Baking:
Next, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it bakes nicely.
5. Bake the Dip:
Now, pop it in the oven and let it bake for about 20-25 minutes. The dip should be hot, bubbly, and lightly browned on top when it’s done.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch. Serve it warm with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your favorite tortilla chips or crackers. Enjoy the yumminess!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but be sure to fully thaw it first. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or submerge it in cold water in a sealed bag for quicker results. Once thawed, shred the chicken before adding it to the dip.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance. Just mix everything together, transfer it to a baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, transfer the dip back to a baking dish and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between for even heating.
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Yes! Feel free to mix it up. You can use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even mozzarella for a milder flavor. Adding a combination of cheeses can create a richer taste. Just make sure to use at least one cheese that melts well for that creamy texture!
