If you’re looking for the ultimate party snack that combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with creamy, cheesy goodness, buffalo chicken dip is the answer.
This irresistible appetizer has earned its place at game-day gatherings, family potlucks, and cozy movie nights.
It’s warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor – everything a good dip should be.
In this post, we’ll cover exactly how to make buffalo chicken dip, tips to customize it, and the best ways to serve it so it disappears in minutes.
Why Buffalo Chicken Dip is So Popular
Buffalo chicken dip takes all the flavors of buffalo chicken wings — spicy sauce, tender chicken, and creamy dressing — and turns them into a scoopable, shareable dish.
Unlike wings, there’s no mess, no bones, and no pile of napkins to deal with. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and bake right before serving.
Read More: How to Make Buffalo Wing Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect buffalo chicken dip, you’ll need:
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2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice)
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½ cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing if you prefer)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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Optional garnish: chopped green onions or crumbled blue cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Chicken
Start with cooked chicken that’s juicy and well-seasoned.
Rotisserie chicken is the most convenient option since it’s already tender and flavorful, but you can also use baked, grilled, or even leftover chicken from a previous meal.
Make sure to remove any skin and bones, then use two forks to shred the meat into thin, bite-sized strands.
The smaller the pieces, the more evenly they’ll mix with the creamy sauce, ensuring every scoop of dip is packed with chicken.
2. Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing.
It’s important that the cream cheese is at room temperature so it blends smoothly without lumps.
Use a sturdy spatula or an electric hand mixer to whip the ingredients together until you have a creamy, orange-colored base.
This mixture is the heart of your dip, balancing the spicy tang of the buffalo sauce with the cool, herby flavor of ranch.
3. Add the Chicken and Cheese
Once your base is smooth, gently fold in the shredded chicken so it’s evenly coated with the sauce.
Sprinkle in half of your shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and stir until they’re well distributed.
The combination of cheeses gives the dip that irresistible gooey texture and a rich flavor that complements the spice.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish
Spoon the mixture into an oven-safe baking dish, such as an 8×8-inch or small casserole pan.
Use the back of your spoon or spatula to spread it evenly, pressing down lightly to remove air pockets.
This ensures even baking and prevents dry spots.
If you’re aiming for a more dramatic presentation, you can use a cast iron skillet, which not only bakes the dip beautifully but also keeps it warmer for longer after serving.
5. Top and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top of the dip.
This layer will melt into a golden, bubbly crust that seals in the creaminess beneath.
Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the edges are starting to brown.
You’ll know it’s ready when the dip is bubbling around the edges and smells irresistible.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to slightly thicken.
Top with freshly chopped green onions for a pop of color and a mild, fresh bite, or add crumbled blue cheese for a more traditional buffalo flavor.
Serve the dip hot with your choice of tortilla chips, celery sticks, crackers, or bread slices.
The key is to serve it while warm so the cheese stays gooey and the flavors are at their peak.
Serving Suggestions
Buffalo chicken dip is delicious with:
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Tortilla chips
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Celery sticks
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Crackers
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Sliced baguette
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Carrot sticks
For a fun twist, spoon it into mini tortillas for buffalo chicken tacos or serve in hollowed bread bowls.
Read More: Easy Hamburger recipes
Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Dip
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Make Ahead: Prepare the dip up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
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Adjust Spice: Add more or less buffalo sauce depending on your heat tolerance.
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Slow Cooker Option: Combine ingredients in a slow cooker and heat on low for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.
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Cheese Upgrade: Mix in pepper jack for extra flavor and heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, you can, but freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken has a better texture and flavor.
Can I freeze buffalo chicken dip?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until hot.
What if I don’t like ranch?
Swap it for blue cheese dressing for a tangy twist.
Also Check: Chicken Wing Dip Recipe for Any Occasion
Final Thoughts:
Buffalo chicken dip is more than just an appetizer — it’s a crowd-pleasing tradition that works for any occasion.
Whether you serve it on game day, at a holiday party, or for a casual get-together, this creamy, spicy, cheesy dip will have everyone coming back for seconds.
