This Best Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy, spicy crowd-pleaser packed with shredded chicken, tangy hot sauce, melty cheese, and a little bit of ranch or blue cheese dressing to keep it smooth and tasty. It’s the perfect dip if you love the flavors of classic buffalo wings but want something easier to scoop and share.
I always like to make this dip when friends come over or during game day because it brings everyone together. It’s one of those recipes that’s simple to put together but feels special from the first bite. I usually serve it warm right out of the oven with plenty of crunchy celery sticks, carrot slices, or tortilla chips on the side. The spicy kick always gets people asking for the recipe.
One tip I have is to shred the chicken finely so it mixes well with the creamy base and cheese—it makes every bite balanced and delicious. This dip never lasts long in my house, and I love that it’s easy to customize the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce. It’s definitely a favorite that I keep going back to when I want a quick, tasty snack that everyone will enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like rotisserie chicken for its ease and flavor, but boiled or leftover chicken works just as well. Make sure to shred it finely so every bite is creamy and balanced.
Cream Cheese: This is the base that gives the dip its creamy texture. Soften it first for easy mixing. You can substitute with Neufchâtel cheese for a lower-fat option.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is my go-to because it has the right heat and tang. Feel free to adjust the amount if you like it milder or spicier.
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Both add a cool, tangy contrast to the heat. Use blue cheese dressing if you want a stronger flavor, or ranch for a milder, creamier taste.
Cheese: Cheddar adds sharpness, while mozzarella melts beautifully on top to create a gooey finish. You can swap in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different twist.
How Do You Get the Creamiest, Bubbly Buffalo Chicken Dip?
The key is mixing well and baking just right. First, soften your cream cheese before mixing to avoid lumps. Combine the sauces smoothly with the cream cheese before adding chicken and cheese.
- Make sure to shred the chicken finely for even bites.
- Spread the mixture evenly in your baking dish for uniform cooking.
- Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until the cheese turns bubbly and golden on top.
- Avoid overbaking or the dip can dry out—check it at 20 minutes.
- Let it rest a few minutes after baking to thicken slightly for perfect scooping.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – big enough to hold all your ingredients and mix comfortably.
- Hand mixer or spoon – to blend the cream cheese and sauces until smooth.
- Oven-safe baking dish – a 1-quart dish works well for even heating and bubbling.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate measurements of sauces and cheese.
- Spatula – to scrape the bowl clean and spread the dip evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked shrimp for a seafood twist that pairs well with classic buffalo sauce.
- Add cooked bacon pieces for extra smoky flavor and crunch.
- Stir in chopped cooked celery or diced bell peppers for fresh color and crunch.
- Mix in buffalo-style blue cheese crumbles if you want a stronger tangy bite.
Best Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 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
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation plus 20-25 minutes to bake. You’ll mix the creamy ingredients and chicken, then let it bake until bubbly and golden. It’s a quick and satisfying appetizer for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Mix the Base:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch or blue cheese dressing. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
2. Add Chicken and Cheese:
Fold in the shredded cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix gently to combine everything evenly.
3. Bake to Perfection:
Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top to create a melty, golden layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top is slightly browned.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the dip from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions if you like. Serve the warm dip alongside tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, or your favorite crackers. Enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before shredding. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing.
Can I Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip mixture in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it right before serving. You can also make and bake it ahead, then reheat gently in the oven before serving.
How Should I Store Leftover Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heat.
What Should I Serve With Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, and crackers are all great for dipping. You can also try sliced bell peppers or cucumber rounds for a fresh twist!
