Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

If there’s one dish that sparks instant excitement at any gathering, it’s Buffalo Chicken Dip. This creamy, cheesy, and unmistakably tangy appetizer delivers the glorious flavor of classic Buffalo wings in a scoopable, party-ready format. With just a handful of simple ingredients—each playing a star role—you’ll be amazed at how easily this crowd-pleasing dip comes together. Whether you’re prepping for game day, a family get-together, or a casual night in, Buffalo Chicken Dip is the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Buffalo Chicken Dip serves a purpose, creating that smooth, crave-worthy blend of savory, spicy, and zippy flavor notes. From tender shredded chicken to melty cheese and a punchy kick of hot sauce, you truly can’t skip a thing. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken is ideal for quick prep and maximum flavor, but feel free to use any leftover cooked chicken you have on hand.
• Cream cheese: This is your base, ensuring the dip is rich, smooth, and irresistibly creamy—let it soften before mixing for easier blending.
• Shredded cheddar: Adds sharp, classic cheesy flavor and gorgeous color to your dip.
• Mozzarella: Provides gooey texture and that satisfying cheese pull on every scoop—use some for the dip and reserve the rest for topping.
• Hot sauce: Frank’s Red Hot gives the dip its signature Buffalo tang, but any favorite hot sauce works.
• Sour cream: Brings a cool, tangy balance that smooths out the heat and thickens everything up.
• Garlic powder: Infuses the dip with an extra layer of warm, savory depth.
• Green onions: Sliced thin for a burst of freshness—use the white parts in the dip and sprinkle the greens over the top for vivid color and a crisp bite.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Dip

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F so it’s hot and ready when your dip is assembled. Take the cream cheese out of the fridge early so it’s soft and easy to work with—trust me, this little trick makes mixing a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, sour cream, and the white parts of the sliced green onions. Blend until everything is smooth and totally combined—the goal is a velvety, flavorful foundation that makes every bite luscious.

Step 3: Add Cheese, Hot Sauce, and Chicken

Now the fun really begins. Fold in ½ cup of the shredded cheddar and ½ cup of mozzarella, reserving the remaining mozzarella for later. Mix in the hot sauce and shredded chicken, making sure every bit of chicken is nicely coated in that spicy, cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Transfer and Top

Spoon the mixture into an oven-safe baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the last ¼ cup of mozzarella over the top—you want a cheesy blanket that’s going to melt into golden perfection.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Bake the Buffalo Chicken Dip for 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for bubbling edges and a top that looks melty and scrumptious. For a next-level finish, pop the dish under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, just until the cheese browns and blisters to that classic Buffalo dip texture we all love.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, shower the bubbling dip with your reserved green onion slices. This final touch isn’t just pretty—it pops with flavor and makes every scoop feel fresh and inviting.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Dip

Garnishes

The finishing flourish is what takes Buffalo Chicken Dip from delicious to truly irresistible! A sprinkle of green onions adds color and zing, but you can get creative with diced celery, crumbled blue cheese, or even a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing for those wing-night vibes.

Side Dishes

This dip is the ideal companion for a wide variety of dippers—think sturdy tortilla chips, crunchy celery sticks, sliced cucumbers, carrot sticks, or even toasted baguette slices. For a hearty spread, pair it with a crisp salad, potato wedges, or a classic coleslaw to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t just limit Buffalo Chicken Dip to a simple bowl! Spoon it into individual ramekins for personal portions, use it to stuff mini bell peppers or mushrooms, or bake it in a bread bowl for an eye-catching centerpiece. Leftovers make a killer filling for wraps, quesadillas, or even as a pizza topping—trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Buffalo Chicken Dip stores beautifully in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for prepping ahead or dealing with leftovers. Simply cover the cooled dip tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 4 days, ready to reheat whenever cravings strike.

Freezing

If you want to save your dip for even longer, freezing is a great choice. Portion the cooled Buffalo Chicken Dip into freezer-safe containers and seal tightly. When frozen, it will keep its quality for up to a month. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, so the texture stays creamy and luscious.

Reheating

To bring your dip back to bubbly life, reheat it gently covered in a 350 degree F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot all the way through. Stir halfway, if possible, to even out the heat. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just be sure to heat in short bursts and stir often for smooth, cheesy results.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken instead of rotisserie?

Absolutely! Canned chicken is a handy substitute when you’re short on time. Drain it well and use the same amount as you would for rotisserie. While the texture will be a bit different, the dip still turns out delicious and flavorful.

How spicy is Buffalo Chicken Dip?

The heat is all up to you! Using Frank’s Red Hot gives a comfortable Buffalo tingle without overwhelming the dip. If your guests love spice, add extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne. For less heat, opt for a milder sauce or mix in more sour cream.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar and mozzarella are classics for this dip—their flavors blend well and melt perfectly. However, you can experiment with Monterey Jack or Colby for an extra dimension or a different melt. Just be sure your cheese is freshly shredded for the softest, creamiest texture.

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Dip ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble everything up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge (unbaked and covered). When you’re ready to serve, bake as directed and add your garnishes fresh from the oven. It’s a lifesaver for stress-free entertaining.

Is Buffalo Chicken Dip gluten-free?

The dip itself is naturally gluten-free, but always check your hot sauce and any pre-shredded cheeses to be sure. Pair with gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks for dipping, and you’re all set for a gluten-free appetizer everyone can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Once you make Buffalo Chicken Dip, it’ll quickly earn a permanent spot in your entertaining rotation. It’s one of those foolproof, universally loved appetizers that brings people together and disappears faster than you can imagine. Give it a try at your next gathering, and get ready for requests—this deliciously cheesy, tangy dip is always a crowd-pleaser!

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