Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

Creamy Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Treat

Creamy buffalo chicken dip has become my ultimate game-day obsession with its bold, zesty flavors.

Weeknight dinners rarely spark such excitement like this crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Spicy buffalo sauce mingles perfectly with tender shredded chicken and rich cream cheese.

Each bite delivers a punch of tangy heat that makes you want more.

Smooth, melted cheeses create a dreamy backdrop for the classic buffalo wing taste.

This recipe promises to be your secret weapon at potlucks and casual gatherings.

One scoop will have everyone asking for the secret behind such an addictive dip.

Grab some crisp chips or fresh veggies and get ready to dive into deliciousness.

What You’ll Need For Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

Proteins:
  • Shredded Chicken: Lean protein that provides the main flavor and texture of the buffalo dip.
  • Cream Cheese: Soft, rich base that creates a smooth and creamy consistency.
  • Cheddar Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Sharp and melty cheeses that add depth and stretchy texture.
  • Blue Cheese (Optional): Tangy cheese that provides a bold, intense flavor profile.
Sauce and Seasonings:
  • Buffalo Sauce: Signature spicy and tangy sauce that gives the dip its classic buffalo wing taste.
  • Ranch Dressing: Creamy and herbal dressing that balances the heat of buffalo sauce.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds a mild, aromatic flavor without overwhelming the dish.
  • Onion Powder: Provides a subtle sweet and savory undertone.
Garnish and Serving:
  • Green Onions: Fresh, mild onion flavor that adds color and brightness.
  • Tortilla Chips, Celery Sticks, Carrots, Crusty Bread: Crispy and crunchy vehicles for scooping the dip.

How To Bake Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe Step-By-Step

Step 1: Crank Up The Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet and give it a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Whip Together The Creamy Base

In a spacious mixing bowl, blend these ingredients until silky smooth:
  • Cream cheese
  • Buffalo sauce
  • Ranch dressing
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
Once blended, fold in:
  • Shredded chicken
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Mozzarella cheese

Mix everything until perfectly combined.

Step 3: Dive Into The Baking Magic

Spread the mixture evenly across your prepared dish. Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top and crumble blue cheese if you’re feeling adventurous. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are bubbling with excitement.

Step 4: Dress It Up And Dig In

Pull the dip out of the oven and let it cool for a few moments. Shower the top with freshly chopped green onions. Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips, crunchy celery sticks, sweet carrot batons, or slices of crusty bread. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

Tips To Make Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe Creamy And Bold

  • Customize Heat Levels: Adjust buffalo sauce intensity by choosing mild, medium, or hot varieties to match your spice preference without overwhelming taste buds.
  • Protein Swap Trick: Replace chicken with rotisserie, canned, or leftover shredded chicken for convenient and quick preparation without compromising flavor.
  • Cheese Variation Hack: Experiment with different cheese combinations like pepper jack or gouda to create unique flavor profiles and add unexpected depth to the dip.
  • Dietary-Friendly Modifications: Substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or use low-fat cheeses to make the recipe more health-conscious and diet-friendly.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the dip mixture in advance and refrigerate, then bake just before serving to save time and ensure maximum freshness during gatherings.

How To Store Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe Without Drying It Out

  • Refrigerate leftover buffalo chicken dip in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Cool the dip completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Seal tightly to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other refrigerator odors.
  • Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, stirring occasionally to restore creamy consistency.
  • Avoid freezing this dip, as dairy-based mixtures can separate and lose their smooth texture when thawed.

What Goes Great With Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

  • Craft Crunchy Chip Companions: Grab thick, sturdy tortilla chips like restaurant-style corn chips or kettle-cooked varieties that can handle the rich, creamy buffalo chicken dip without breaking.
  • Select Refreshing Beverage Matches: Pair this spicy dip with crisp, cold beer like an amber ale or light lager that cuts through the heat and complements the tangy buffalo sauce.
  • Design Veggie Dipping Delights: Prepare fresh, crisp vegetable sticks such as celery, carrots, and cucumber slices for a cool, crunchy counterpoint to the warm, spicy dip.
  • Create Cool Creamy Contrast: Serve alongside a mild blue cheese or ranch dressing to provide a soothing, creamy balance that tempers the buffalo sauce's intense heat.

Spicy And Fun Twists On Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

  • Spicy Southwest Fiesta: Replace buffalo sauce with salsa and add diced green chilies, cumin, and cilantro for a zesty Mexican-inspired version.
  • Mediterranean Herb Fusion: Swap buffalo sauce for olive oil, mix in crumbled feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
  • Greek Yogurt Lighter Option: Substitute half the cream cheese with Greek yogurt to reduce calories while maintaining creamy texture and adding protein.
  • Smoky Bacon Ranch Remix: Fold in crispy bacon bits, swap ranch for smoky ranch dressing, and sprinkle smoked paprika on top for extra depth of flavor.

FAQs About Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

  • What makes buffalo chicken dip so popular at parties?

Buffalo chicken dip combines the classic flavors of spicy buffalo wings with creamy, cheesy goodness that everyone loves. It’s an easy-to-share appetizer that’s perfect for game days, gatherings, and casual get-togethers.

  • Can I make this dip less spicy?

Absolutely! Adjust the heat by using less buffalo sauce or choosing a milder hot sauce brand. You can also mix in some extra ranch dressing to help cool down the spice level for sensitive taste buds.

  • Is this dip considered a healthy option?

While delicious, this dip is more of an indulgent treat. It’s high in calories and fat due to the cream cheese, cheeses, and ranch dressing. Consider it a special occasion appetizer rather than an everyday snack.

  • What's the best way to shred chicken for this recipe?

For the most tender result, use rotisserie chicken or boil and shred chicken breasts. You can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken. Shred the chicken using two forks for the best texture.

Why Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe Is Perfect For Parties

  • Whip Up Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: This buffalo chicken dip transforms ordinary ingredients into a mouthwatering party favorite that guarantees smiles and empty plates at any gathering.
  • Conquer Quick Cooking: Preparation takes mere minutes with simple mixing and baking, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious results without complex techniques or lengthy cooking times.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows endless variations by adjusting cheese types, changing spice levels, or swapping protein, ensuring everyone can create their ideal version of this crowd-pleasing dip.
  • Zero-Fuss Entertainment Hero: Ideal for game days, potlucks, and casual get-togethers, this dip requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, turning any ordinary moment into a memorable culinary experience.
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Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe


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4.6 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy buffalo chicken dip brings fiery flavor to game day gatherings with its zesty blend of shredded chicken, tangy hot sauce, and rich cream cheese. Craving a crowd-pleasing appetizer that delivers bold southwestern kick? You’ll devour every spicy, cheesy bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 2 cups (473 ml) cooked shredded chicken
  • ¼ cup (59 ml) crumbled blue cheese (optional)

Cheese and Dairy:

  • 8 ounces (227 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (113 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup (57 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese

Sauce and Seasonings:

  • ½ cup (118 ml) buffalo sauce (like Franks RedHot)
  • ½ cup (118 ml) ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing if preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven environment by setting the temperature to 375F (190C) and coating a 9-inch baking dish with a light layer of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Create a smooth and uniform base by whisking cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder in a spacious mixing bowl until the mixture achieves a silky consistency.
  3. Incorporate the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese into the creamy sauce, stirring thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients throughout the mixture.
  4. Transfer the fully combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a consistent layer that will ensure uniform heating.
  5. Enhance the flavor profile by sprinkling additional cheddar cheese and optional crumbled blue cheese across the top of the dip, creating a tantalizing golden-brown crust during baking.
  6. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and allow the dip to cook for 20-25 minutes, watching for bubbling edges and a heated center that indicates complete cooking.
  7. Remove the dip from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to stabilize and prevent burning, which will help the ingredients set and become more cohesive.
  8. Elevate the presentation by garnishing with finely chopped green onions, adding a fresh and vibrant touch to the rich, creamy dip.
  9. Serve immediately alongside crispy tortilla chips, refreshing celery sticks, crunchy carrots, or warm crusty bread for a versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Notes

  • Customize heat levels by adjusting buffalo sauce quantity, allowing spice-sensitive guests to enjoy without overwhelming flavors.
  • Opt for reduced-fat cream cheese and low-fat cheeses to create a lighter version of this indulgent dip without sacrificing taste.
  • Elevate the recipe by using rotisserie chicken for deeper, more complex flavor profiles and guaranteed tender meat texture.
  • Transform leftovers into a quick pasta or sandwich filling by mixing with additional mayo or ranch dressing for extended meal versatility.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 270
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Emily Morgan

Emily Morgan

Food Critic & Kitchen Tips Specialist

Expertise

Global Food Exploration & Critique, Simple Kitchen Hacks & Time-Saving Tips, Presentation & Plating Techniques, Culinary Research & Storytelling.

Education

New York University

  • Program: Bachelor’s in Journalism
  • Focus: Combined foundational journalism training with deep dives into global food traditions, restaurant criticism, and the cultural role of cuisine.

Emily Morgan has journeyed across the globe, collecting culinary secrets that turn everyday ingredients into impressive meals.

Based in Seattle and armed with a Journalism degree from NYU, she blends thorough research with a flair for presentation, ensuring every dish looks just as good as it tastes.

Focusing on fresh flavors, simple methods, and a bit of fun, Emily shows home cooks how to elevate their daily cooking without fancy gadgets or complex steps.

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