Hey there, food lovers! I’m thrilled to share my go-to buffalo chicken dip recipe, a creamy, spicy, cheesy appetizer that’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Whether you’re hosting a game-day party, a family get-together, or just craving something indulgent, this dip delivers all the bold flavors of Buffalo wings without the mess.
It’s perfect for busy folks who want a quick, crowd-pleasing dish or foodies who love a zesty kick.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this buffalo chicken dip recipe is easy to whip up and endlessly customizable. Let’s get cooking!
Recipe Overview
| Course | Appetizer |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | American |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Servings | 20 |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
| Calories | 284 per serving |
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make this buffalo chicken dip recipe:
- Skillet
- Slow cooker (optional, for keeping it warm)
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife (for chopping veggies like celery)
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Serving dish
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients for your buffalo chicken dip recipe:
- 2 (10-ounce) cans chunk chicken, drained (or 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken)
- ¾ cup hot pepper sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1 bunch celery, cut into 4-inch pieces
- 1 (8-ounce) box chicken-flavored crackers (or your favorite dippers)
Variations:
- Swap canned chicken for rotisserie chicken for a fresher flavor.
- Use blue cheese dressing instead of ranch for a tangier twist.
- Add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Sprinkle blue cheese crumbles on top for a classic Buffalo wing vibe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering buffalo chicken dip:
- Prepare the Chicken: If using canned chicken, drain it thoroughly to avoid a watery dip. For rotisserie chicken, shred it into small pieces with two forks or a mixer for quick shredding.
- Heat Chicken and Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, combine the chicken and hot pepper sauce. Stir occasionally and cook for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
- Add Cream Cheese and Ranch: Lower the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing. Keep stirring until the cream cheese melts and the mixture is smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
- Mix in Cheese: Add 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted and blended into the dip.
- Choose Your Cooking Method: For a slow cooker, transfer the mixture to the cooker. For oven baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer to an oven-safe dish.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Cheddar cheese over the top for that gooey, golden finish.
- Cook: In a slow cooker, cover and cook on LOW for 35 minutes until bubbly. In the oven, bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and the dip is hot.
- Check Consistency: Give it a quick stir to ensure everything is well combined and creamy.
- Garnish (Optional): Add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or paprika for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve Hot: Bring your buffalo chicken dip to the table hot, paired with celery sticks, crackers, or your favorite dippers.
- Keep Warm: If serving at a party, keep the dip warm in a slow cooker on the LOW setting.
- Enjoy: Watch your guests devour this irresistible dip!
Ideas for Serving
This buffalo chicken dip recipe is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dippers. Here are some ideas to elevate your spread:
- Celery Sticks: A classic choice that adds crunch and balances the dip’s richness.
- Crackers and Chips: Try chicken-flavored crackers, tortilla chips, or Fritos Scoops for different textures.
- Veggie Sticks: Carrot sticks, bell pepper slices, or cucumber rounds offer a healthier option.
- Bread Options: Serve with toasted baguette slices or homemade pita chips for a hearty bite.
- Creative Uses: Use the dip as a topping for baked potatoes or spread it in a sandwich for a spicy twist.
These options make the dip perfect for any occasion, from casual game nights to festive holiday spreads.
Nutrition Information
Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one serving of this buffalo chicken dip recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 284 | – |
| Total Fat | 23g | 29% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 54mg | 18% |
| Sodium | 552mg | 24% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 9g | 3% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 3% |
| Total Sugars | 2g | – |
| Protein | 11g | 22% |
| Vitamin C | 2mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 98mg | 8% |
| Iron | 1mg | 5% |
| Potassium | 161mg | 3% |
Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary.
This dip is indulgent, with a good balance of protein from the chicken and cheese, but it’s high in fat and sodium due to the cream cheese and ranch dressing. Enjoy it in moderation, especially if you’re watching your sodium intake. Pairing it with veggies like celery or carrots can make it a bit lighter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your buffalo chicken dip turns out perfect, steer clear of these common pitfalls:
- Not Draining Chicken Properly: Excess liquid from canned chicken can make the dip watery. Drain thoroughly or pat dry.
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese won’t blend smoothly, leading to lumps. Let it soften at room temperature first.
- Overheating the Dip: High heat can cause the cheese to separate or become greasy. Cook on low heat or at 350°F in the oven.
- Ignoring Spice Levels: Taste the dip before serving and adjust the hot sauce to your preference. Too much can overpower; too little can be bland.
- Serving Cold: This dip shines when served hot. Keep it warm in a slow cooker or serve immediately after baking.
History of the Recipe
The buffalo chicken dip recipe traces its roots to the iconic Buffalo wings, born in 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York. Teressa Bellissimo, the bar’s co-owner, whipped up the first Buffalo wings as a late-night snack for her son and his friends, coating leftover chicken wings in a spicy mix of cayenne pepper hot sauce and butter. Served with celery and blue cheese dressing, the dish became a sensation. The buffalo chicken dip recipe evolved as a convenient, mess-free way to enjoy those same bold flavors. By blending shredded chicken with cream cheese, hot sauce, and cheese, home cooks created a creamy, scoopable appetizer that’s now a staple at parties and tailgates across the U.S.
Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate buffalo chicken dip recipe that’s sure to steal the show at your next gathering. This easy, flavorful dip brings together the spicy, tangy essence of Buffalo wings with the creamy comfort of melted cheese. Whether you’re cheering on your team or hosting a cozy night in, this dip is a winner. It’s quick to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to disappear fast. So, grab your ingredients, fire up the oven or slow cooker, and treat your friends and family to this crowd-pleasing dish. You’ll be the MVP of any party!
FAQs
- Can I make the buffalo chicken dip recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Mix all ingredients except the top layer of cheese, store in the fridge for up to 2 days, then add the cheese and bake or heat when ready to serve. - What can I use instead of ranch dressing?
Blue cheese dressing is a fantastic substitute, adding a tangy, authentic Buffalo wing flavor. Sour cream works too for a milder taste. - Is buffalo chicken dip spicy?
It can be, depending on the hot sauce amount. Start with ½ cup for a milder dip and adjust upward for more heat. - Can I freeze the buffalo chicken dip recipe?
Freezing is possible, but the texture may change due to the cream cheese and ranch. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months, thaw in the fridge, and reheat gently. - What are the best dippers for this dip?
Celery sticks are traditional, but tortilla chips, Fritos Scoops, crackers, or toasted baguette slices are great too. - Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes! Swap the chicken for mashed chickpeas or a plant-based chicken alternative. Adjust seasonings to maintain flavor. - How do I make it kid-friendly?
Reduce the hot sauce to ¼ cup or use a mild version. Add extra cream cheese or ranch to mellow the spice.
