Creamy Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip is the perfect mix of rich, cheesy goodness and a little kick of spicy buffalo sauce. It’s loaded with tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and that classic tangy buffalo flavor that makes your taste buds tingle just the right way. This dip is always a hit at parties, game days, or whenever you’re craving something warm and tasty.
I love making this dip because it comes together quickly and fills the room with the most amazing aroma. One of my favorite things to do is add just enough hot sauce to get that nice spicy bite without overpowering the creaminess. It’s the kind of recipe I go back to again and again because it never fails to make everyone smile.
My go-to way to serve this dip is with crunchy celery sticks, cool sliced cucumbers, or crispy tortilla chips. It’s the perfect combo—something crunchy to balance the creamy, spicy dip. I’ve also found that it’s great for dipping with fresh bread or crackers if you want something a little different. This one always brings people together, and I’m pretty sure it’s impossible to eat just a little bit of it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my favorite for its flavor and ease. If you don’t have any, cooked shredded chicken breast or thighs work just fine. Leftovers are great here!
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese creates the creamy base. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing. You can swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter touch, but the texture changes.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: This gives the spicy flavor. Frank’s RedHot is classic, but try other sauces if you want more or less heat. Adjust to your taste for spice levels.
Dressing: Ranch or blue cheese dressing adds tang and creaminess. Pick your favorite or use a homemade version if you prefer a fresher taste.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully and gives that stretchy texture. Blue cheese adds tang and boldness but can be left out if you’re not a fan — more mozzarella works well.
How Do You Get the Dip Creamy and Perfectly Bubbly?
Getting the right creamy texture is key. Here’s how I make sure the dip turns out smooth and bubbly every time:
- Softening cream cheese: Let it sit out 30 mins or microwave 15 seconds. This stops lumps and helps it blend with the sauce.
- Mix well: Stir cream cheese and buffalo sauce until smooth before adding other ingredients. This makes a uniform sauce base.
- Bake at 350°F: Bake for 20-25 minutes, so the dip is heated all the way through and cheese melts perfectly.
- Watch the edges: When edges turn light golden and bubbly, the dip is ready.
- Serve warm: It tastes best hot or warm—don’t let it sit too long so it stays creamy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – I use this to combine all the ingredients easily and keep everything in one place.
- Whisk or spoon – helps blend the softened cream cheese and sauce smoothly without lumps.
- Oven-safe baking dish or skillet – perfect for baking the dip right in the dish you serve it from.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amount of sauce, dressing, and cheese.
- Spatula – for spreading the mixture evenly and transferring to the baking dish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked shrimp or turkey if you want a different protein.
- Add chopped jalapeños or sliced banana peppers for extra heat and crunch.
- Mix in chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh, herbal flavor.
- Use pepper jack or cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella for a richer, more flavorful dip.
Creamy Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- ½ cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
- Tortilla chips, celery sticks, and/or crackers for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes prep time and 20–25 minutes baking time. In less than 40 minutes, you’ll have a warm, creamy, spicy dip ready to enjoy with your favorite dippers.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking the dip once you’ve mixed all the ingredients.
2. Mix the Base
In a large bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese and buffalo wing sauce until smooth and well blended. This will create a spicy, creamy foundation for your dip.
3. Add the Rest
Mix in the ranch or blue cheese dressing, shredded chicken, shredded mozzarella, and crumbled blue cheese. Stir everything together until well combined and all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Bake the Dip
Transfer your mixture to an oven-safe baking dish or skillet and spread it out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the edges start turning light golden.
5. Garnish and Serve
Remove the dip from the oven and sprinkle with sliced green onions and some additional crumbled blue cheese. Add chopped parsley or cilantro if you like for a fresh touch. Serve warm alongside tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers for dipping.
Enjoy your creamy, spicy buffalo chicken dip — perfect for sharing at any gathering or enjoying as a cozy snack!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before shredding. Thaw it safely in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Can I Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. When ready, bake it fresh for best texture and warmth.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts stirring in between.
What Are Good Substitutes for Blue Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, feel free to omit it or swap with extra mozzarella or cheddar for a different creamy, cheesy flavor.