This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Dip is a party favorite! It’s creamy, spicy, and packed with chicken and cheese that everyone loves. Perfect for game day or any gathering!
Seriously, it’s so good that you might just end up needing a second batch. I like to serve it with crispy chips or veggies for dipping — makes it easy to snack all night! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover cooked chicken. If you’re vegetarian, seasoned tofu or chickpeas can work as a great substitute!
Cream Cheese: This ingredient gives the dip its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
Ranch Dressing: Ranch adds a rich flavor. Feel free to swap it for blue cheese dressing if you prefer that classic taste. Homemade versions are also great if you have the time!
Hot Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a favorite, but you can experiment with any hot sauce you enjoy. For less heat, try a mild sauce or add a touch of honey for a sweet balance.
Cheese: I love the combo of cheddar and mozzarella for the perfect meltiness. If you want a twist, try pepper jack for a spicy kick or any cheese you have on hand.
How Can I Make the Cheese Melt Perfectly?
Getting that ooey-gooey cheese goodness is key in this dip. Here’s a tip: mix the cheeses in with the dip and save some for the top. This creates layers of cheesy goodness!
- Be sure to soften your cream cheese first; this helps it blend smoothly.
- Layering cheese on top allows it to brown and bubble nicely, giving you that delicious texture.
- Keep an eye on the oven; once melted and bubbly, it’s ready to come out! Overcooking can make it tough.
How to Make Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Dip:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing)
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- For serving:
- Optional: celery sticks
- Optional: tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need about 20-25 minutes of baking time. So, in total, you’re looking at roughly 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the dip cooks evenly and gets nice and bubbly.
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and hot sauce. Use a fork or mixer to blend them until smooth and creamy. This is the flavorful base of your dip!
3. Add the Chicken and Cheese:
Stir in the shredded chicken, 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese, 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese, and chopped green onions. Make sure everything is well combined and evenly mixed.
4. Transfer to a Baking Dish:
Grab a baking dish and transfer your mixture into it. Spread the dip evenly in the dish with a spatula for even cooking.
5. Top with More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top. This will give your dip a deliciously cheesy layer that gets nice and golden when baked.
6. Bake the Dip:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want the cheese on top to be melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the dip from the oven. Garnish with extra chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve warm with celery sticks and tortilla chips for dipping.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip! It’s always a hit!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds amazing flavor. Just shred the chicken and you’re ready to go!
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Dressing?
No worries! You can easily substitute ranch dressing with blue cheese dressing for a tangy twist. Alternatively, mix sour cream with a sprinkle of dried herbs for your own dressing blend!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before putting it in the oven.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add a splash of hot sauce if you want to refresh the flavor!
