The perfect blend of creaminess, heat, and savory chicken, this Buffalo Chicken Dip is a must-have for your next gathering. Made with melty cheeses, tender shredded chicken, and that classic kick from Frank’s RedHot, it delivers on bold flavor and comforting texture in every bite.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Whether you’re hosting game day, a holiday party, or just need a quick appetizer, this dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to whip up, perfect for make-ahead, and pairs well with everything from crunchy chips to fresh veggies. Every scoop is a creamy, cheesy, spicy indulgence that keeps guests coming back for more.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup ranch dressing
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1/2 cup blue cheese dressing
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3/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
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1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
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Chopped green onions, for garnish
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Tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers, for serving
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, and Frank’s RedHot sauce. Stir until well mixed.
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Fold in the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese.
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Transfer the mixture into a baking dish (about 8×8 inches).
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Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese over the top, if using.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and slightly golden on top.
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Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped green onions.
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Serve warm with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or your favorite dipping option.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 330 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
A Brief History of Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo Chicken Dip emerged as a spin-off of the legendary Buffalo chicken wings, which originated in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s. As the popularity of the wings exploded across the United States, inventive home cooks and food enthusiasts began experimenting with new ways to enjoy the same bold, spicy flavor without the mess of traditional wings.
By the early 2000s, Buffalo Chicken Dip had become a staple at Super Bowl parties and family gatherings, thanks to its simplicity and addictive taste. Over time, countless variations have emerged, but the core elements—chicken, hot sauce, and creamy, cheesy goodness—remain central to every version.
Why It’s So Popular
There’s a reason why Buffalo Chicken Dip has earned its place at the table during every major game or festive event. It ticks every box: spicy, creamy, savory, and cheesy. It’s easy to make in large batches, customizable to personal taste, and requires minimal prep time.
Another reason for its popularity is its incredible flexibility. You can bake it in the oven, make it in a slow cooker, or even heat it on the stovetop. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a movie night at home, this dip adapts to every scenario.
Perfect for Parties and Gatherings
Buffalo Chicken Dip has practically become synonymous with parties. Its bold flavors and creamy texture make it ideal for sharing, and it’s easy to keep warm throughout an event. Whether it’s a Super Bowl bash, birthday party, tailgate, or backyard BBQ, this dish is a guaranteed hit.
Its visual appeal—golden cheese bubbling on top, streaks of orange from the hot sauce, and garnished with fresh green onions—also makes it an eye-catching centerpiece on any appetizer spread.
Another reason it’s perfect for parties: it’s not picky about accompaniments. Chips, crostini, celery, carrot sticks, and even bread cubes all work wonderfully for dipping. That means it easily caters to a range of tastes and dietary preferences.
Customizing Your Buffalo Chicken Dip
One of the best things about Buffalo Chicken Dip is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few popular modifications:
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Spice Level: Adjust the heat by varying the amount of hot sauce or using a milder version. Some even mix in a little BBQ sauce for a sweeter, smokier twist.
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Cheese Choices: Cheddar and mozzarella are the go-to cheeses, but Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a mix of sharp cheeses can add extra complexity.
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Dressing Debate: Some prefer ranch dressing, while others swear by blue cheese. Many recipes use both to balance the tanginess with creamy richness.
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Protein Swaps: While shredded rotisserie chicken is the classic, some versions use ground chicken or even canned chicken for convenience. Plant-based eaters can sub in jackfruit or a chicken-style meat alternative.
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Add-Ins: For texture and flavor, you can mix in crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, sautéed onions, or even corn.
With all these possibilities, you can tailor the dip to suit any taste or occasion.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Buffalo Chicken Dip is incredibly versatile in how it can be served. Here are some ideas:
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With Chips: Tortilla chips are the most common partner, offering a sturdy and salty base to scoop up the dip.
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With Vegetables: Celery sticks and carrot sticks are not only a healthier option but also tie back to the traditional Buffalo wing experience.
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On Bread: Slices of toasted baguette or pita chips make for an elegant and satisfying serving method.
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As a Topping: Use leftovers as a topping for baked potatoes, nachos, or even a Buffalo chicken pizza.
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In Wraps or Sandwiches: Stuff the dip into a tortilla or sandwich bun for a spicy chicken melt or wrap that makes a fantastic lunch the next day.
Pairing-wise, cold, crisp beverages work best to balance the heat. Beer is a classic choice—particularly pale ales or lagers—but it also pairs nicely with sparkling water, lemonade, or even a chilled glass of white wine.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Buffalo Chicken Dip stores well, making it a great make-ahead option. If you’re planning a party, you can prep the dip a day in advance, store it covered in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving.
Storage: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot and bubbly again.
Freezing: While technically possible, freezing isn’t always ideal due to the dairy content. The texture may become grainy upon thawing. If you do freeze it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before reheating.
Dietary Considerations
Buffalo Chicken Dip can be made to fit various dietary needs:
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Low Carb / Keto: This dip is naturally low in carbs, especially if you skip the crackers and use veggie dippers.
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Gluten-Free: The recipe itself is gluten-free, but always check that your hot sauce, dressing, and chips are certified gluten-free.
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Dairy-Free / Vegan: Use dairy-free cream cheese, cheese, and dressing, and substitute chicken with jackfruit or plant-based proteins for a vegan twist.
Making it allergen-friendly ensures more people can enjoy this crowd-pleasing classic.
Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Dip
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Use Softened Cream Cheese: This helps everything mix together smoothly and avoids clumps.
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Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent melting. For a creamier texture, shred your cheese fresh.
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Don’t Overbake: Baking too long can cause the dip to separate. Just bake until hot and bubbling.
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Garnish Right Before Serving: A sprinkle of green onions, chives, or even a drizzle of extra hot sauce adds freshness and visual appeal.
These little tweaks can take your dip from good to unforgettable.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Dip is more than just a trend—it’s a modern classic that taps into America’s love affair with spicy comfort food. With its rich, creamy base and fiery bite, it checks all the boxes: easy to make, endlessly customizable, visually appealing, and irresistibly tasty.
Whether you’re hosting a game day party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply craving something bold and cheesy, Buffalo Chicken Dip is a sure bet. It invites creativity in the kitchen while delivering familiar flavors everyone already loves. Keep your chips ready, because this dip never lasts long!