Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy, spicy, and cheesy crowd-pleaser that combines shredded chicken with tangy buffalo sauce and gooey melted cheese. It’s the perfect mix of bold flavors and smooth textures that everyone seems to love at parties, game days, or casual get-togethers.
I always find that the easiest way to enjoy this dip is with a big pile of crunchy celery sticks or salty tortilla chips for scooping. It’s the kind of dish where you can’t really stop at just one scoop because the heat from the buffalo sauce keeps you coming back for more, while the cheese helps mellow it out just enough.
One of my favorite things about making Buffalo Chicken Dip is how simple it is to throw together, yet it feels like a special treat. I like to make it ahead of time and pop it in the oven right before guests arrive so the whole house fills with that spicy, cheesy aroma—it’s like an instant invitation to dig in and enjoy some happy, flavorful snacking.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I find shredded rotisserie chicken the easiest and most flavorful option. You can also use cooked chicken breasts or thighs, shredded by hand or with forks. Turkey works well too if you prefer.
Cream Cheese: This is the base of the dip, giving it a smooth, rich texture. Make sure it’s softened at room temperature to mix easily. For a lighter version, you could try Neufchatel cheese.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice for that perfect spicy tang. If you want milder heat, mix in less sauce or swap for a milder hot sauce. For extra kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: These add creaminess and balance the heat. Ranch is milder and creamier, while blue cheese dressing adds tang and depth. You can substitute with Greek yogurt mixed with a little garlic powder for a healthier twist.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella provide gooey melt and flavor. Sharp cheddar is best for punchy taste, while mozzarella brings stretchiness. If you don’t have mozzarella, extra cheddar or Monterey Jack works fine.
Blue Cheese Crumbles: This is optional but adds the classic Buffalo wing vibe. If you’re not a fan, just skip it or sprinkle extra cheddar instead.
How Do I Get the Dip Hot and Creamy Without It Being Watery?
Achieving a creamy Buffalo Chicken Dip is all about balance and technique. Here’s how I do it:
- Use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps and make mixing easier.
- Mix ingredients well before baking so the flavors incorporate smoothly.
- Don’t overload with wet ingredients – too much buffalo sauce or dressing can make the dip runny.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) just until hot and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes. Overbaking can dry out the dip.
- Let the dip rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps it thicken so it’s easier to scoop and less messy.
Following these tips, you’ll get a dip that is creamy, cheesy, and just the right texture for dipping without excess liquid pooling at the bottom.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – I use a large bowl to combine all the ingredients easily and thoroughly.
- Mixing spoon or spatula – helps you stir everything together smoothly.
- Baking dish (9-inch or similar) – a regular baking dish works well to bake the dip evenly and get a nice bubbly top.
- Oven – of course, for baking the dip to hot and bubbly perfection.
- Serving spoon – for scooping out the dip once baked.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shredded chicken for cooked, shredded turkey or even cooked tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Add crumbled bacon on top before baking for extra smoky flavor.
- Mix in sautéed chopped vegetables like bell peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch and spice.
- Use a mix of different cheeses like Monterrey Jack or Pepper Jack for more flavor and heat.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup hot buffalo wing sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
- ½ cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup blue cheese crumbles
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake in the oven. So, in under 40 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dip ready to share with friends and family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Mix Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch or blue cheese dressing. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
2. Add Chicken and Cheese
Next, fold in the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix everything well so the chicken and cheeses are evenly spread throughout the creamy sauce.
3. Bake the Dip
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbling around the edges.
4. Garnish and Serve
Once baked, take the dip out of the oven and sprinkle the blue cheese crumbles over the top. Add the sliced green onions as a fresh garnish. Serve your delicious Buffalo Chicken Dip warm with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before using. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat it dry to avoid extra moisture in the dip.
Can I Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready, bake until hot and bubbly, adding a few extra minutes if baking directly from chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What Can I Use Instead of Blue Cheese Crumbles?
If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, feel free to skip it or substitute with extra shredded cheddar or a sprinkle of Parmesan for added flavor.