Ultimate Buffalo Chicken Dip is the perfect mix of spicy, creamy, and cheesy all in one bowl. It’s made with tender shredded chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, plenty of cream cheese, and melted cheddar that gives it that ooey-gooey texture everyone loves. You really can’t go wrong with a dip that combines those classic buffalo wing flavors in such a easy, shareable way.
I always make this dip when friends come over because it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I like to double the recipe so there’s plenty to go around and no one has to worry about running out. A helpful tip I found: warming it in the oven until it’s bubbling makes it even better, and it stays nice and warm for snack time all night long.
My favorite way to serve it is with crunchy celery sticks, cool ranch crackers, or even soft pretzels—anything that gives a good crunch to balance out the creamy dip. It’s a fun dish to share while watching a game or just hanging out, and honestly, it’s one of those things everyone ends up asking for seconds of. I love how it brings people together with just a little spice and a lot of flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick option. You can also boil chicken breast or use leftover chicken. For a vegetarian twist, try shredded jackfruit or a plant-based chicken substitute.
Cream Cheese: This gives the dip its creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, try using Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt, but the dip won’t be quite as rich.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot sauce is a classic choice. If you like less heat, add less sauce or mix it with a little melted butter for a milder flavor.
Ranch & Blue Cheese Dressings: These add creaminess and flavor. If you don’t have blue cheese dressing, just use extra ranch, or swap both for sour cream mixed with some garlic powder and herbs.
Cheddar & Blue Cheese: Use shredded sharp cheddar for good melt and flavor. Blue cheese adds tang and texture, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip it or use feta instead.
How Can I Make This Dip Super Creamy and Not Runny?
Balancing the creamy ingredients is key to getting the perfect dip texture. Here’s what works best:
- Soften cream cheese before mixing. This helps it blend smoothly and prevents lumps.
- Use only the recommended amount of dressings and wing sauce. Too much liquid can make the dip watery.
- Mix everything well to combine the ingredients evenly, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Bake until the dip is bubbly around the edges; this helps the cheese melt and firm up the dip.
- Let the dip sit for a few minutes after baking so it thickens slightly before serving.
Following these tips will give you a creamy, thick dip that’s easy to scoop and enjoy with your favorite dippers!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – big enough to stir all the ingredients together easily without spilling.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – great for mixing the cream cheese smoothly into the other ingredients.
- Baking dish or oven-safe skillet – helps the dip heat evenly and makes serving simple.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right balance of sauce, cheese, and dressings.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping green onions or any add-ins you want to try.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shredded chicken for cooked ground turkey for a leaner twist that still holds flavor well.
- Mix in cooked bacon bits for added smokiness and crispy texture.
- Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper if you want more heat and spice.
- Stir in some shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a milder or spicier cheesy flavor.
Ultimate Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup blue cheese dressing (optional, or use extra ranch)
- 1 cup hot buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Celery sticks, crackers, or pita chips for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, so you’ll have a delicious dip ready in under 35 minutes. Perfect for quick snacks or last-minute parties!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking your dip.
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing (if using), and buffalo wing sauce. Stir them together until you get a smooth, creamy mixture.
3. Add Chicken and Cheese:
Stir in the shredded chicken and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until everything is evenly combined.
4. Prepare for Baking:
Spread the mixture evenly in an oven-safe dish or skillet. Then sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the top.
5. Bake the Dip:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly around the edges.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Take the dip out of the oven and sprinkle the sliced green onions on top. Serve warm with celery sticks, crackers, or pita chips for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before shredding and using it in the recipe. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing.
Can I Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
What Are Some Good Dippers for Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Celery sticks, crackers, pita chips, tortilla chips, and even sliced bell peppers are all great options to scoop and enjoy the dip.
