Name: Buffalo Chicken Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing); 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot is a classic); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional); 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp onion powder; Salt & pepper, to taste; For serving: Tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, or crackers

Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy, spicy, and cheesy appetizer that’s perfect for game days, parties, or casual get-togethers. Made with shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, cream cheese, and plenty of cheese, it’s baked until bubbly and golden, delivering a crowd-pleasing kick every time.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing)

1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot is a classic)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 tsp garlic powder

1/4 tsp onion powder

Salt & pepper, to taste

For serving:

Tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, or crackers

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or something similar.

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, ranch or blue cheese dressing, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir everything until smooth and well combined.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the dip is bubbly and the cheese on top turns golden.

Let it cool slightly before serving with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies like celery and carrots.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 to 8 people as an appetizer. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prep and about 25 minutes to bake, so you can have it ready in under 40 minutes.

Variations

For a milder dip, reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce or substitute with a mild hot sauce.

Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist.

Swap ranch dressing for blue cheese dressing if you prefer a tangier dip.

Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for extra heat.

For a dairy-free option, try vegan cream cheese and dairy-free shredded cheese alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop the dip into a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until it’s warmed through and bubbly again. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, but baking keeps the cheese melty and fresh.

FAQs

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! I often prepare the dip mixture a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, just bake it fresh so it’s hot and bubbly.

What can I use instead of cooked chicken?

Rotisserie chicken is my go-to because it’s easy and flavorful, but you can also use shredded leftover chicken, grilled chicken breasts, or even canned chicken if pressed for time.

Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Dip?

Yes, this dip freezes well. I recommend freezing it in an airtight container before baking. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual.

What’s the best way to serve Buffalo Chicken Dip?

I like serving it with tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, and crackers. The crisp veggies add a nice crunch and freshness to balance the creamy, spicy dip.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with shredded jackfruit or cooked cauliflower. For vegan, use plant-based cream cheese, vegan ranch dressing, dairy-free cheese, and a vegan-friendly buffalo sauce.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Dip is one of my favorite go-to appetizers because it’s easy, flavorful, and always a hit. Whether I’m hosting a party or just craving something comforting and spicy, this dip delivers every time. The creamy, cheesy, spicy combo is hard to beat, and it pairs perfectly with a variety of dippers. Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation too.

Buffalo Chicken Dip