This creamy and spicy Buffalo chicken dip is a crowd-pleaser! Made with tender chicken, Frank’s Red Hot sauce, and cheese, it’s perfect for parties or game day.
I’ve had friends come back for seconds (and thirds) every time I make it. It’s so good that even celery sticks taste better dipped in it! 😄
I love to serve this dip warm with tortilla chips or crackers. It’s super easy to whip up and always adds a kick to any gathering!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is super convenient, but you can also boil or bake chicken breasts. Just make sure to shred it well! If you’re vegetarian, try using shredded jackfruit or plant-based chicken alternatives.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess! For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Frank’s RedHot Sauce: This is the star of the dip! If you’re looking for less heat, try a milder hot sauce or even barbecue sauce. Just remember, it won’t have that signature Buffalo flavor.
Ranch Blue Cheese Dressing: You’re free to swap in your favorite dressing! Homemade ranch is great, or use an alternative like avocado dressing if you want something lighter.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick, but feel free to use mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a creamier consistency. A blend of different cheeses can also add depth to the flavor!
How Can I Make Sure My Dip is Smooth and Creamy?
A smooth, creamy dip is all about combining ingredients properly. Here are some tips:
- Start with softened cream cheese to make mixing easier. Leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.
- When mixing, use a hand mixer or whisk for a super smooth texture, ensuring no lumps are left behind.
- Mix ingredients in a bowl before transferring to the baking dish. This leads to a better distribution of flavors.
Keeping the oven hot while baking helps everything meld together beautifully, creating that gooey deliciousness we love!
Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes to get this delicious Buffalo chicken dip ready for your gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A warm oven is essential for melting all those yummy ingredients together.
2. Mix the Base:
In a medium bowl, grab your softened cream cheese and mix it with the Frank’s RedHot sauce and your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing. Stir it all together until you have a smooth and creamy mix. No lumps should be left behind!
3. Add Chicken and Cheese:
Now, it’s time to fold in the shredded chicken and the shredded cheddar cheese. Gently mix everything together until it’s well combined, ensuring all that tasty chicken and cheese is evenly spread out.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Take your creamy mixture and pour it into a baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly. This ensures every bite gets equal deliciousness!
5. Bake It Up:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for it to be hot and bubbly all over. You can even take a peek through the oven door to see how it’s doing!
6. Garnish for Flavor:
Once it’s out of the oven, give it a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese on top if you’re using it, along with some chopped green onions for that fresh flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Grab some tortilla chips or crackers and dive into that delicious dip while it’s warm. Share with friends or keep it all to yourself—no judgment here!
Enjoy your delicious and spicy Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds excellent flavor. Just shred it and you’re ready to go!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance. Just combine all the ingredients, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven and bake as directed. You might need to add an extra few minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge!
What Should I Do if the Dip is Too Spicy?
If you find the dip too spicy, mix in some additional cream cheese or ranch dressing to mellow the heat. You can also adjust the amount of Frank’s RedHot sauce based on your preference next time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or microwave it in short increments, stirring in between.
