Best Buffalo Chicken Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines tender shredded chicken, tangy cream cheese, flavorful buffalo sauce, and melted cheese all in one gooey, spicy dish. It’s that perfect mix of creamy, zesty, and a little kick of heat that makes it so irresistible. If you love buffalo wings but want something easier to share, this dip is your go-to.
I always find myself making this dip whenever friends come over because it’s quick to throw together and everyone can’t stop reaching for it. I like to use rotisserie chicken to save time, and I can adjust the heat by adding more or less buffalo sauce based on who’s coming over. It’s one of those dishes that tastes even better to me when served warm and bubbly, straight from the oven.
My favorite way to serve this dip is with crispy tortilla chips or crunchy celery sticks—both are great for scooping up every last bit. It’s also a perfect appetizer when you’re watching the game or hosting a casual get-together. No matter the occasion, this buffalo chicken dip always brings the spicy, cheesy fun everyone’s looking for.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a quick and tasty choice. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or cooked chicken breast. For a lighter option, try shredded turkey.
Cream Cheese: This gives the dip its creamy base. You can swap it with Neufchâtel cheese for fewer calories or use a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan version.
Buffalo Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is classic for that tangy heat. If you want less spice, reduce the amount or choose a milder hot sauce. Add extra for a spicier dip.
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: These balance the heat with creaminess and flavor. You can make your own dressing or use a dairy-free alternative if needed.
Cheese: Cheddar adds sharpness, while mozzarella melts beautifully. Feel free to mix in pepper jack for extra kick or swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack.
How Do You Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Creamy and Perfectly Melted?
The secret to a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth dip lies in how you mix and bake it. Start with softened cream cheese so it blends smoothly with the hot sauce and dressing.
- Use a large bowl to mix cream cheese, hot sauce, and dressing thoroughly before adding chicken and cheese.
- Spread the mixture evenly in your baking dish for consistent heat distribution.
- Top with cheese for a melty, golden crust that’s irresistible.
- Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly—don’t skip the cheese topping for that perfect finish.
- Let the dip rest a few minutes before serving so it thickens slightly and is easier to scoop.
Using a cast iron skillet if you have one helps keep the dip warm longer when serving. Enjoy with crunchy chips or fresh celery for great texture contrasts!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cast iron skillet or oven-safe baking dish – great for even heating and easy baking.
- Mixing bowl – big enough to stir all the ingredients without spills.
- Spoon or spatula – handy for mixing the dip smoothly and spreading it in the dish.
- Measuring cups – to get your sauce and cheese amounts just right.
- Cheese grater (optional) – perfect if you buy blocks of cheese and want a fresher melt.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked ground beef or turkey for a different protein twist.
- Stir in blue cheese crumbles for a sharper, tangier flavor that pairs well with buffalo sauce.
- Add diced celery or carrots inside the dip for extra crunch and freshness.
- Mix in a few dashes of smoked paprika or cayenne for a smoky or extra spicy kick.
Best Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup Buffalo hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- ½ cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake in the oven. So overall, you’ll need about 30-35 minutes from start to finish for a warm, melty dip that’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your dip is mixed and prepared.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, Buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing until smooth. Add the shredded chicken, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and ¼ cup of mozzarella cheese. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
3. Prepare for Baking:
Spread the mixture into a cast iron skillet or an oven-safe baking dish in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the dip is hot and bubbly and the cheese melts with a slight golden color. Remove from oven and garnish with green onions. Serve hot with your favorite chips, crackers, or celery sticks for dipping.
Can I Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready, just bake it as directed until hot and bubbly.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
Absolutely, just make sure to fully thaw and drain any excess moisture from the chicken before mixing it into the dip to keep the texture perfect.
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Dressing?
Blue cheese dressing is a classic alternative that pairs well with buffalo flavor. You can also use a simple mix of mayonnaise and sour cream with a pinch of garlic powder if preferred.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving again.
