Nothing brings people together like a hot bubbling dish of Buffalo Chicken Dip. This crowd favorite combines everything we love about buffalo wings but in an amazing dippable form. Every time I make this cheesy spicy dip it disappears in minutes whether its game day party time or just a Friday night snack attack.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic happens when tangy buffalo sauce meets creamy cheese and tender chicken. Its got that perfect kick of heat balanced with rich creaminess that keeps you coming back for just one more scoop. I love how versatile it is throw it in the oven slow cooker or even microwave and it comes out delicious every time. Plus its filling enough to be dinner which happens more often than Id like to admit.
Everything You Need
- The Chicken Base:
- 1 pound cooked chicken shredded (I grab a rotisserie chicken when Im busy)
- You can also cook 2-3 chicken breasts yourself seasoned with salt and pepper
- The Creamy Stuff:
- 2 blocks (8 ounces each) cream cheese must be super soft
- 1 cup sour cream full fat gives the best texture
- ¾ cup ranch dressing the good thick kind
- ½ cup blue cheese dressing optional but amazing
- The Cheesy Part:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar freshly grated
- 1 cup mozzarella adds that perfect stretch
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese if youre into it
- The Flavor Makers:
- ¾ cup Franks Red Hot Buffalo Sauce (more or less to taste)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon celery salt secret ingredient
- For Serving:
- Extra buffalo sauce for drizzling
- Chopped green onions
- Extra cheese for topping
- Blue cheese crumbles
- Nice to Have But Optional:
- Ranch seasoning packet adds extra flavor
- Diced celery for crunch
- Diced jalapeños if you like it spicier
- A splash of ranch dressing to thin it out if needed
Lets Make It
- Get Your Chicken Ready:
- If youre using rotisserie chicken pull it apart into small shreds. Want bigger chunks? That works too. If youre cooking chicken yourself season it well with salt and pepper then either bake it or pop it in your slow cooker until its tender enough to shred easily.
- Mix Up The Creamy Base:
- In a big bowl mix those super soft cream cheese blocks with sour cream and ranch dressing until its smooth. The cream cheese really needs to be soft or youll end up with lumps. I sometimes warm it for 15 seconds in the microwave if its still too firm.
- Add The Good Stuff:
- Now fold in most of your shredded cheese leaving some for the top. Pour in that buffalo sauce garlic powder onion powder and our secret weapon celery salt. Stir until everything looks well combined. Give it a taste maybe add more buffalo sauce if you like it spicier.
- Time To Bake:
- Spread everything into your baking dish. Sprinkle the rest of your cheese on top. Pop it in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes. You want it bubbling around the edges and that cheese on top getting all melty and golden.
- The Final Touch:
- Once its out drizzle some extra buffalo sauce on top scatter some green onions and maybe add an extra sprinkle of blue cheese if youre using it. Let it cool for about 5 minutes trust me its like lava when it first comes out.
Make It Your Own
Want to kick up the heat? Add some diced jalapeños or a splash more buffalo sauce. Like it milder? Use less sauce and add more ranch dressing. Sometimes I throw in some crispy bacon bits or diced celery for crunch. For parties I keep it warm in a slow cooker on low just give it a stir now and then. If it gets too thick add a splash of ranch or warm cream to thin it out.
Serving Tips and Storage
This dip loves all kinds of dippers celery and carrot sticks tortilla chips thick potato chips or toasted baguette slices. For a low carb option try cucumber rounds or bell pepper slices. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for about 4 days just warm it up slowly in the microwave or oven. Sometimes I spread the cold leftovers on a sandwich which is absolutely amazing. You can even make this a day ahead just save the final cheese topping and baking for right before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dip ahead and refrigerate. When ready, bake until hot and bubbly. Add extra time if cooking from cold.
- → How spicy is this dip?
The spice level depends on your buffalo sauce. Start with less sauce and add more to taste. Frank's RedHot provides medium heat.
- → Can I use canned chicken?
While rotisserie chicken is best, canned chicken works in a pinch. Just drain well and shred with forks before using.
- → How long does this dip stay good?
Leftovers keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot throughout.
- → What's the best way to keep it warm at a party?
A slow cooker on warm setting works great. A cast iron skillet also helps maintain temperature longer than regular dishes.