This creamy Buffalo chicken dip is a crowd-pleaser! With shredded chicken, spicy sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
I love serving it with crunchy tortilla chips. It’s so good that I might eat way too much, but who’s counting, right? 😂 Just try to keep some for your guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: I usually go for rotisserie chicken for its flavor and convenience. If you prefer, poached chicken works great too. If you’re vegetarian, you might try using shredded jackfruit or tofu with buffalo sauce for a similar taste.
Cream Cheese: This is vital for the creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt. Vegan cream cheese can also substitute for a dairy-free version.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s is my favorite for that zesty kick. If you like it spicier, add more sauce! For a milder option, you can mix a little hot sauce with a base like ketchup.
Ranch Dressing: Ranch complements the buffalo flavor perfectly. You can use blue cheese dressing if you prefer that tanginess. For a homemade version, mix yogurt with herbs and spices.
Cheddar and Mozzarella: They create that gooey texture we love! If you’re short on one type, you can swap in any meltable cheese, like Monterey Jack or gouda. Vegan cheeses also work here!
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Texture?
A smooth mix is key to a great dip. Start by ensuring your cream cheese is fully softened; it’ll blend much easier. Combine it with the Buffalo sauce and ranch until there are no lumps. Folding in the shredded chicken and cheese requires gentle mixing, so everything stays fluffy.
- Make sure your chicken is finely shredded for even distribution.
- When baking, keep an eye on the dip. It’s done when it bubbles and the top is golden.
- Let it sit for a few minutes after baking; this will help it firm up a bit for dipping!
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 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 shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Buffalo Chicken Dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 20-25 minutes to bake. In just under an hour, you’ll have a warm and flavorful dip ready for your get-together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it will be ready when you’re done mixing the dip!
2. Mix the Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing. Use a fork or a hand mixer to blend everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Trust me, the smoother it is, the better it will taste!
3. Add the Chicken and Cheese:
Next, gently fold in the cooked shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Make sure everything is mixed well, so every bite is packed with flavor!
4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Spread the mixture evenly into a small oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Make sure it’s spread out nicely so it cooks evenly. Yum!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it—it’s ready when the dip is bubbly and the top turns a lovely golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and add sliced jalapeños if you like extra spice!
7. Enjoy!
Serve the dip warm with crunchy celery sticks, carrot sticks, toasted bread slices, or tortilla chips for dipping. A perfect appetizer that everyone will love!
This dish is creamy, spicy, cheesy, and perfect for sharing! Enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Dip! 🥳
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. You can thaw it in the fridge overnight or quickly in cold water if you’re short on time. Cook it until fully done, then shred it for the dip!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just mix everything together and cover the baking dish tightly. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of extra ranch or cream cheese can help refresh the dip’s creaminess when reheating!
What Can I Serve with Buffalo Chicken Dip?
This dip pairs well with celery sticks, carrot sticks, tortilla chips, or even slices of toasted baguette. For a fun twist, you can also serve it with mini pretzels or crackers!
