Creamy Buffalo Chicken Dip

Buffalo Chicken Dip brings together the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with creamy cheese in a warm, delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. This crowd-pleasing dip combines tender shredded chicken with tangy hot sauce and a rich blend of cheeses, creating a flavor explosion that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, family get-together, or just craving something satisfying, this buffalo chicken dip hits all the right notes. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and can be kept warm in a slow cooker during your event. The combination of heat, creaminess, and savory chicken makes this dip irresistible and guaranteed to disappear quickly!

Reasons to Try Buffalo Chicken Dip

Buffalo Chicken Dip stands out as a must-try appetizer for several compelling reasons:

• Perfect balance of flavors: The spicy buffalo sauce contrasts beautifully with the cooling cream cheese and ranch flavors.
• Crowd-pleaser: Even picky eaters tend to love this dip, making it ideal for gatherings.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it in advance and reheat when guests arrive.
• Customizable heat level: Easily adjust the spiciness to suit your preference.
• Simple ingredients: Uses common items you might already have in your kitchen.
• Protein-packed: Unlike many dips, this one includes chicken, making it more filling.

The creamy texture combined with the signature buffalo flavor creates an addictive appetizer that delivers the classic buffalo wing experience without the mess.

Where did Buffalo Chicken Dip come from?

Buffalo Chicken Dip originated in Buffalo, New York, in the early 2000s as a creative spin-off of the famous Buffalo wings. After the wild popularity of Buffalo wings (which were first created at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo in 1964), home cooks began experimenting with ways to capture the same flavors in different formats. The dip version emerged as a convenient way to enjoy the spicy, tangy flavor profile without dealing with messy chicken wings. It quickly spread across American households, particularly gaining momentum during football season parties. The recipe became an internet sensation in the mid-2000s, when food blogs and recipe-sharing websites helped popularize this crowd-pleasing appetizer nationwide, cementing its status as a game day classic.

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Ingredients Notes

Quality ingredients make all the difference in this Buffalo Chicken Dip:

• Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for the best flavor and texture. The pre-cooked meat saves time and adds a depth of flavor you won’t get from plain boiled chicken.
• Hot sauce: Frank’s RedHot original sauce is traditional and gives the authentic Buffalo flavor, but any cayenne-based hot sauce works.
• Cream cheese: Full-fat cream cheese provides the best creaminess and acts as the perfect base. Bring it to room temperature before mixing for smoother blending.
• Sour cream: Adds tanginess and helps create that perfect dip consistency.
• Ranch seasoning: Provides a herbaceous flavor that complements the spiciness perfectly.
• Cheese: A combination of mozzarella and sharp cheddar offers the ideal melt and flavor. Always grate your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded for better melting.
• Green onions: Fresh green onions add color and a mild onion flavor that brightens the dip.
• Garlic powder: Adds depth without overwhelming chunks of garlic.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Dip

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or a 1-quart casserole dish.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using a hand mixer or wooden spoon.

Step 3

Add sour cream and ranch seasoning to the cream cheese and mix until well combined.

Step 4

Stir in the buffalo hot sauce, adjusting the amount according to your preference for spiciness.

Step 5

Fold in the shredded chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated with the cream cheese mixture.

Step 6

Add 1 cup of shredded cheese and sliced green onions (reserving some for garnish) and mix gently.

Step 7

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 8

Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top to create a cheesy crust when baked.

Step 9

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the dip is bubbling around the edges and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.

Step 10

Let the dip rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with remaining green onions.

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What You Must Know About Buffalo Chicken Dip

• Heat level matters: If serving to guests with varying spice tolerances, start with less hot sauce and offer extra on the side.
• Texture troubleshooting: If your dip seems too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or chicken broth. If it’s too thin, add more cream cheese.
• Chicken preparation: Ensure chicken is well-shredded and not in large chunks for the best eating experience.
• Prevent burning: If reheating in the microwave, use 50% power and stir every 30 seconds to prevent scorching.
• Cold cheese warning: Adding cold cream cheese directly to hot ingredients can cause curdling. Always bring cream cheese to room temperature first.
• Serving temperature: This dip is best enjoyed hot. It solidifies as it cools, affecting the texture and dipping experience.

Helpful Tips

• Use a fork to shred the rotisserie chicken while it’s still warm – it separates much more easily than cold chicken.
• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of ranch seasoning to the cheese topping before baking.
• If you prefer a smoother dip, use an electric mixer to combine all ingredients except the chicken and topping cheese, then fold in the chicken by hand.
• Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
• For a spicier kick, add a few dashes of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
• If making this for a party, transfer to a small slow cooker on low heat to keep it warm throughout your event.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Greek yogurt option: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for added protein and tanginess.
• Blue cheese variation: Add ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese to the mixture for an authentic Buffalo wing flavor profile.
• Vegetarian alternative: Use jackfruit or chickpeas instead of chicken for a plant-based version.
• Mexican twist: Add a can of drained, diced tomatoes with green chilies for a Southwestern flair.
• Low-fat adaptation: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheese to lower the calorie count (though the texture may be slightly different).
• Dairy-free possibility: Use dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream alternatives, and vegan shredded cheese.
• Extra vegetables: Mix in diced celery for added crunch and authentic Buffalo wing accompaniment flavor.
• Ranch alternative: Use blue cheese dressing mix instead of ranch seasoning for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Buffalo Chicken Dip

This versatile dip pairs wonderfully with various dippers:

• Vegetable options: Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, bell pepper slices, or cucumber rounds for a low-carb option.
• Bread options: Toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or garlic bread make hearty dippers.
• Chip varieties: Tortilla chips, corn chips, potato chips, or pita chips all work great.
• Presentation ideas: Serve in a bread bowl for an impressive display at parties.
• Garnish suggestions: Top with extra sliced green onions, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles before serving.
• Make it a meal: Turn it into a loaded baked potato topping or fill halved bell peppers with the dip and rebake.
• Wrap it up: Use as a filling for tortilla wraps with extra lettuce and tomato for a Buffalo chicken wrap.

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Storage

The dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often improve after sitting overnight as they meld together.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dip for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container. The texture may change slightly upon thawing, but it will still be delicious.

Reheating

To reheat refrigerated dip:

• Oven method: Cover with foil and heat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until bubbling.
• Microwave option: Heat in 30-second intervals at 50% power, stirring between each interval until warmed through.
• Slow cooker: Place in a slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Add a splash of milk or chicken broth if the dip seems too thick after refrigeration.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

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Irresistible Buffalo Chicken Dip

Make the best Buffalo Chicken Dip with our easy recipe! Creamy, spicy, and packed with tender chicken, this crowd-pleasing appetizer is perfect for game day gatherings. Ready in just 40 minutes!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce such as Frank’s RedHot
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese combination of cheddar and mozzarella, divided
• 3 green onions thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Optional: Blue cheese crumbles for garnish

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
• Beat softened cream cheese until smooth in a large bowl
• Mix in sour cream and ranch seasoning
• Stir in buffalo sauce
• Fold in shredded chicken
• Add 1 cup cheese and most of the green onions
• Transfer to a greased baking dish
• Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheese
• Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden
• Let rest 5 minutes before serving
• Garnish with remaining green onions

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