5.0 from 38 votes
Buffalo chicken dip is a classic appetizer that is perfect for parties and gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser that is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste.
I am obsessed with buffalo chicken, as you can tell from so may recipes I’ve done: Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas, Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers with cream cheese or the most delicious creamy Pinwheels stuffed with Buffalo Chicken
In this blog post, I will share four different ways to make buffalo chicken dip that are all easy and delicious: in the Crock Pot, Instant Pot, Airfryer or your oven!
Table of Contents
Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip – The Perfect Game Day Appetizer!
Buffalo chicken dip is a classic party food that is always one of my first picks when meal planning. It’s creamy, spicy, and oh-so-delicious. Finally, this dip is one of my go-to recipes and is always a hit at parties. It’s a great option for a delicious appetizer or as a cheesy dip to enjoy with friends.
Give it a try and see why it’s one of my favorite recipes in dip form!
I will go through the basics of making buffalo chicken dip, including the necessary ingredients, simple recipe instructions to cover all methods: whether making it in , and tips for making the best buffalo chicken dip.
Ingredients
Most buffalo chicken dip recipes call for a few simple ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Here are the necessary ingredients for a basic buffalo chicken dip recipe:
Shredded Chicken. When it comes to the chicken, there are a few different options to choose from. Canned chicken is a convenient choice, as it is already cooked and ready to use. However, shredded chicken breast is the best option, as it provides a more authentic flavor and texture.
First and foremost, cream cheese is a must-have ingredient for any buffalo chicken dip recipe. It provides a creamy, tangy base that pairs perfectly with the spicy buffalo sauce.
Hot sauce is another essential ingredient, and Frank’s RedHot is a popular choice among home cooks. It adds a bold, spicy kick to the dip that will have your taste buds dancing.
Ranch dressing is another common ingredient in buffalo chicken dip recipes. It adds a cool, refreshing flavor that helps balance out the heat from the hot sauce. Blue cheese dressing is also a popular choice, as it adds a tangy, cheesy flavor that complements the buffalo sauce.
Finally, lots of cheese is a must-have ingredient for any buffalo chicken dip recipe. Mozzarella cheese and cheddar cheese are both great options, and I like to use a combination of the two for the perfect cheesy flavor.
Blue cheese crumbles are also a popular choice, as they add a tangy, salty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Overall, the key to making a great buffalo chicken dip is to use high-quality ingredients and to balance the flavors just right. With the right combination of cream cheese, hot sauce, chicken, and cheese, you can create a dip that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Making the Best Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Use shredded cooked chicken for the best texture. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook your own chicken breasts and shred them.
- Use Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Sauce for authentic buffalo flavor. It’s the sauce that started it all!
- Add blue cheese crumbles for extra flavor. Not everyone loves blue cheese, but if you do, it’s a great addition to buffalo chicken dip.
- Don’t overcook the dip. It’s easy to let it bake for too long and end up with a dry dip. Keep an eye on it and take it out of the oven when the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Buffalo Chicken Dip Variations
If you’re a fan of buffalo chicken dip, you’ll be happy to know that there are many different ways to make this tasty appetizer. Here are four variations to try out:
The first way to make buffalo chicken dip is with cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and blue cheese crumbles. This version is creamy and tangy with just the right amount of heat.
The second way is to use shredded chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. This version is cheesy and spicy with a lot of flavor.
The third way is to use canned chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, and ranch dressing. This version is quick and easy to make and is perfect for when you’re short on time.
The fourth way is to use rotisserie chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and blue cheese dressing. This version has a lot of flavor and is perfect for when you want a more indulgent dip.
Sour cream is another ingredient that is often used in buffalo chicken dip recipes. It adds a creamy, tangy flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. Garlic powder and onion powder are also commonly used to add extra flavor to the dip.
How To Make Buffalo Chicken Dip In The Oven
1. Preheat oven to 400℉/ 200C.
2. In a 10-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat, heat the already cooked and shredded chicken with the hot sauce. Stir to combine and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add the blocks of cream cheese and ranch dressing. Stir to combine and continue to cook until fully heated through and the cream cheese is well incorporated.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat, then mix in half of the shredded cheddar and colby monterey jack cheeses, stirring until combined. Top with the remaining cheese.
5. Transfer the cast iron skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, just until the mixture is hot and starts to bubble around the edges.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish green onions or parsley.
Baking Buffalo Chicken Dip in the oven ensures a creamy and cheesy dip with a nice golden crust on top. It’s a popular method for making this delicious appetizer and works well for larger batches or when you want to prepare it in advance for parties or gatherings.
How To Make Buffalo Chicken Dip In The Slow Cooker
Making buffalo chicken dip in a slow cooker is a great option if you want to save time and effort.
- In a slow cooker, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, hot sauce, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Stir the ingredients together until well combined, ensuring the cream cheese is evenly distributed.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours or on high heat for 1-2 hours. Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and to help the ingredients blend together.
- Once the dip is heated through and the cheese is melted, give it a final stir to make sure everything is well mixed.
- If desired, sprinkle some green onions or blue cheese crumbles on top for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve the Buffalo Chicken Dip warm with celery sticks, tortilla chips, or bread for dipping.
This slow cooker method allows the flavors to meld together and creates a creamy and delicious Buffalo Chicken Dip that’s perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering where you want to keep the dip warm for a longer period of time, to enjoy some spicy and flavorful appetizers.
How To Make Buffalo Chicken Dip In The Instant Pot
- Place the Instant Pot on “Sauté” mode and add the shredded chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese to the pot.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients until the cream cheese has melted and everything is well mixed.
- Cancel the “Sauté” mode and secure the Instant Pot lid, making sure the pressure valve is set to the sealing position.
- Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode and set the timer for 5 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick pressure release by carefully turning the pressure valve to the venting position.
- Open the Instant Pot lid and give the dip a final stir to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- If desired, sprinkle green onions or blue cheese crumbles on top for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve the Buffalo Chicken Dip warm with celery sticks, tortilla chips, or bread for dipping.
The Instant Pot method allows for quick and easy preparation of Buffalo Chicken Dip, with the added advantage of pressure cooking to infuse the flavors together. It’s a fantastic choice for impromptu gatherings or when you’re short on time but still want a delicious and satisfying appetizer.
How To Make Buffalo Chicken Dip In The Air Fryer
For a unique twist on this classic appetizer, try making buffalo chicken dip in an air fryer.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, hot sauce, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Preheat your Air Fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the buffalo chicken dip mixture into a small baking dish or oven-safe dish that fits inside your Air Fryer basket.
- Place the dish in the preheated Air Fryer basket.
- Cook the dip for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the dip is heated through. You can check the doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center and ensuring it comes out clean.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the dish from the Air Fryer using oven mitts or tongs.
- If desired, sprinkle green onions or blue cheese crumbles on top of the dip for added flavor and garnish.
- Serve the Buffalo Chicken Dip warm with celery sticks, tortilla chips, or bread for dipping.
Using the Air Fryer for making Buffalo Chicken Dip provides a quick and efficient cooking method, resulting in a creamy and cheesy dip with a delicious spicy kick. It’s a great option for smaller batches or when you want to enjoy this appetizer without using the oven.
No matter which method you choose, buffalo chicken dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Total time and cooking times may vary depending on the method you choose, so be sure to adjust accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving buffalo chicken dip, there are a variety of options to choose from. Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy this delicious dip:
- Tortilla Chips are a classic pairing with buffalo chicken dip. The salty crunch of the chips complements the spicy, creamy dip perfectly.
- Celery Sticks. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try serving your buffalo chicken dip with celery sticks. The crispness of the celery provides a nice contrast to the creamy dip, and the mild flavor of the celery helps to balance out the spiciness of the dip. Cut the celery into bite-sized pieces for easy dipping.
- Carrot Sticks. Like celery, carrots provide a nice crunch and a mild flavor that complements the dip. Plus, the bright orange color of the carrots adds a pop of color to your serving platter.
- Potato Chips. If you’re looking for something a little heartier than tortilla chips, try serving your buffalo chicken dip with potato chips. The salty, crispy chips provide a nice contrast to the creamy dip, and the thicker texture of the chips holds up well to the weight of the dip.
- Baguette Slices. For a more sophisticated option, try serving your buffalo chicken dip with slices of baguette. The crusty bread provides a nice texture contrast to the creamy dip, and the neutral flavor of the bread allows the flavors of the dip to shine through. Cut the baguette into thin slices and toast them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
No matter how you choose to serve your buffalo chicken dip, it’s sure to be a hit at your next party or gathering.
Storage and Leftovers
When it comes to storing leftover buffalo chicken dip, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that it stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
Firstly, it is important to let the dip cool down to room temperature before storing it. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage.
Once the dip has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. I prefer to use plastic containers with tight-fitting lids, as they are easy to stack and take up less space in the fridge.
If you don’t have an airtight container, you can also cover the dip tightly with plastic wrap. Just make sure that there are no gaps or holes in the wrap, as this can allow air and moisture to enter and cause the dip to spoil more quickly.
Leftover chicken dip can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat the dip, simply transfer it to a microwave-safe dish and heat it up in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it is heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a saucepan on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, until it is heated through.
By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your buffalo chicken dip for days after you make it.
Buffalo Chicken Dip for Parties
Buffalo chicken dip is one of my favorite party dips, and it’s always a hit at any gathering. Whether it’s for a Super Bowl party, a special occasion, or just a get-together with friends, this dip is perfect for feeding a crowd.
To make my buffalo chicken dip, I start with cooked shredded chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken, or even canned chicken for a quick and easy option. Then, I mix in cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and shredded cheese. I like to use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for extra flavor and stringy cheese pulls.
To serve the dip, I like to garnish it with chopped green onions and serve it with my favorite Publix Deli quick take party snacks, like pita chips, tortilla chips, or even celery sticks for a healthier option.
This dip is also great for game day, as it’s easy to make ahead of time and can be reheated in the oven or microwave. I often make a double batch and freeze half for the next party or game day.
Overall, buffalo chicken dip is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to customize with different cheeses or spice levels, and it’s always a hit with guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I thicken my buffalo chicken dip?
If your buffalo chicken dip is too runny, you can try adding more cheese or reducing the amount of liquid ingredients like hot sauce or ranch dressing. You can also try adding a thickener like cornstarch or flour, but be sure to mix it well so that it doesn’t clump up in the dip.
Can I use canned chicken in my buffalo chicken dip?
Yes, you can use canned chicken in your buffalo chicken dip. Just be sure to drain the chicken well before adding it to the dip. You can also use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for added flavor.
Why is my buffalo chicken dip too runny?
Your buffalo chicken dip may be too runny if you added too much liquid or didn’t add enough cheese. To fix this, try adding more cheese or reducing the amount of liquid ingredients. You can also try baking the dip for a few minutes to help thicken it up.
Can I freeze buffalo chicken dip?
No, buffalo chicken dip does not freeze well. The texture and flavor can be affected by freezing and thawing, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh.
Can I make keto buffalo chicken dip?
Yes, you can make keto buffalo chicken dip by using keto-friendly ingredients like cream cheese, sour cream. Be sure to check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are keto-friendly.
Love all things Buffalo chicken?
Make sure you try my buffalo chicken stuffed peppers, buffalo chicken pinwheels or shredded buffalo chicken quesadillas
Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
Recipe by Adore Foods
5.0 from 38 votes
A creamy and cheesy dip loaded with shredded chicken, cream cheese, a shredded cheese blend, ranch dressing, and Frank’s RedHot Original hot sauce. It’s easy to make and is the perfect game day snack. Serve it hot with chips, toasted bread, crackers, or your fresh veggies!
Course: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings
8
servings
Prep time
10
minutes
Cooking time
20
minutes
Cook Mode
Keep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
3 cups 3 shredded chicken (I used shredded chicken breast), boiled/cooked
1 cup 1 Frank’s RedHot Original hot sauce
1 1/2 1 1/2 blocks cream cheese, cut into cubes and softened to room temperature
3/4 cup 3/4 ranch dressing
1 1/4 cup 1 1/4 shredded cheddar cheese
1 1/4 cup 1 1/4 colby monterey jack cheese blend
Directions
- How To Make Buffalo Chicken Dip In The Oven
- Preheat oven to 400℉.
- In a 10-inch cast iron skillet(or any oven safe skillet) over medium heat, heat the already cooked and shredded chicken with the hot sauce. Stir to combine and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the blocks of cream cheese and ranch dressing. Stir to combine and continue to cook until fully heated through and the cream cheese is well incorporated.
- Remove the skillet from the heat, then mix in half of the shredded cheddar and colby monterey jack cheeses, stirring until combined. Top with the remaining cheese.
- Transfer the cast iron skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, just until the mixture is hot and starts to bubble around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and garnish green onions or parsley.
- How To Make Buffalo Chicken Dip In The Slow Cooker
- In a slow cooker, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, hot sauce, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Stir the ingredients together until well combined, ensuring the cream cheese is evenly distributed.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours or on high heat for 1-2 hours. Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and to help the ingredients blend together.
- Once the dip is heated through and the cheese is melted, give it a final stir to make sure everything is well mixed.
- If desired, sprinkle some green onions or blue cheese crumbles on top for added flavor and presentation.
- How To Make Buffalo Chicken Dip In The Instant Pot
- Place the Instant Pot on “Sauté” mode and add the shredded chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese to the pot.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients until the cream cheese has melted and everything is well mixed.
- Cancel the “Sauté” mode and secure the Instant Pot lid, making sure the pressure valve is set to the sealing position.
- Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode and set the timer for 5 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick pressure release by carefully turning the pressure valve to the venting position.
- Open the Instant Pot lid and give the dip a final stir to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- If desired, sprinkle green onions or blue cheese crumbles on top for added flavor and presentation.
- How To Make Buffalo Chicken Dip In The Air Fryer
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, hot sauce, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Preheat your Air Fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the buffalo chicken dip mixture into a small baking dish or oven-safe dish that fits inside your Air Fryer basket.
- Place the dish in the preheated Air Fryer basket.
- Cook the dip for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the dip is heated through.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the dish from the Air Fryer using oven mitts or tongs.
- If desired, sprinkle green onions or blue cheese crumbles on top of the dip for added flavor and garnish.
Notes
- If you do not have an oven safe skillet, you can still cook this dip in a regular pan and then transfer it to a baking dish before topping it with more cheese.
- Using room temperature cream cheese will help it to incorporate into the dip quicker.
- Swap out the ranch dressing for blue cheese dressing or even sour cream if desired
