Buffalo Chicken Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that’s spicy, creamy, and packed with shredded chicken and tangy buffalo sauce. It’s that perfect mix of cheesy goodness with a little kick that gets everyone reaching for a chip or celery stick. If you like buffalo wings but want something easier to share, this dip is a game-changer.
I love making this dip for gatherings because it’s so simple to put together, and it always disappears fast. My little secret? I add a bit more cheese on top and let it get nice and bubbly in the oven for that irresistible crust. It’s the kind of dish everyone asks me to bring again because it’s just plain tasty and totally addictive.
Whether you serve it with crunchy tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or even on toasted bread, Buffalo Chicken Dip makes every snack time feel like a mini party. I always keep a bowl nearby during game day or casual get-togethers—it’s my go-to for keeping friends happy and our snack bowls empty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken makes this dip super easy and flavorful. You can also boil or bake chicken breasts if you prefer homemade. Leftovers work great too!
Cream Cheese: This adds the creamy base that balances the heat. Soften it well before mixing for smooth texture. For a lighter version, try Greek yogurt, but the dip won’t be as rich.
Buffalo Sauce: This is the key for that classic tangy and spicy flavor. Frank’s RedHot is my favorite choice. If you want less heat, mix a little hot sauce with mild sauce or use a milder buffalo sauce.
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Both add extra creaminess and flavor. Choose ranch for a milder, herby taste or blue cheese for a tangier punch. You can also swap for sour cream if that’s what you have.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts well and adds depth. Feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for gooier meltiness. Topping with blue cheese crumbles is optional but adds a lovely tangy contrast.
How Can I Get the Best Creamy and Bubbly Texture in Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Achieving a creamy, bubbly dip starts with properly softening and mixing the cream cheese and sauces. Here’s how:
- Soften cream cheese at room temperature or briefly microwave it in 10-second bursts until soft but not melted.
- Mix cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and dressing until smooth to avoid lumps.
- Add shredded chicken and half the cheese, stirring gently to combine evenly.
- Spread the mixture in a baking dish evenly to ensure uniform heating.
- Top with remaining cheese so it melts into a golden bubbly crust while baking.
- Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until the dip bubbles along the edges—watch closely near the end to avoid over-browning.
Letting the dip cool for 5 minutes before serving helps it thicken slightly, making scooping easier without losing that creamy texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – I use it to blend all the ingredients smoothly before baking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keeps everything precise so the flavors balance just right.
- Oven-safe baking dish – I prefer a 9-inch or similar dish that’s deep enough for bubbling and easy serving.
- Spatula or spoon – perfect for mixing and spreading the dip evenly in the dish.
- Oven – naturally, I bake the dip to get that cheesy, bubbly top. Make sure your oven is preheated before baking!
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked shredded rotisserie turkey or chicken sausage to customize the protein flavor.
- Add chopped green onions or cilantro on top before serving for fresh herbs and color.
- Mix in some chopped jalapeños or banana peppers for extra heat and tang.
- Stir in a handful of cooked bacon bits or blue cheese crumbles for richer, smokier flavors.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dip:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or poached)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup hot buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- ½ cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, for garnish)
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips or celery sticks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and mix, plus 20 to 25 minutes to bake until bubbly and golden on top. Let it cool a few minutes before serving. Total time is around 35 minutes, making it a quick and easy snack or appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Mix:
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch or blue cheese dressing. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Add Chicken and Cheese:
Mix in the shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until it’s evenly combined and looks creamy.
3. Bake the Dip:
Spoon the mixture into an oven-safe baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top. Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the dip is hot, bubbling, and the cheese on top melts and turns slightly golden.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Take the dip out of the oven and sprinkle crumbled blue cheese on top if you like. Let the dip cool a bit before serving with tortilla chips or celery sticks for dipping. Enjoy the warm, cheesy, spicy goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken first—preferably overnight in the fridge. Once thawed, shred the chicken before adding it to the dip for the best texture.
Can I Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip mixture and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, stirring occasionally to warm the dip evenly.
What Are Some Good Dippers Besides Chips?
Try celery sticks, carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or even toasted baguette slices for a crunchy, fresh alternative to chips. They pair wonderfully with the spicy, creamy dip!