Buffalo Chicken Dip is everyone’s favorite party dip—and for good reason. This creamy, cheesy, spicy dish always disappears fast, whether it’s game day, a holiday gathering, or just a weekend hangout. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and way simpler (and less messy) than traditional wings. Our version is a reader favorite, highly rated for its perfect balance of heat and creaminess. No deep-frying, no fuss—just bold, crave-worthy flavor in every scoop. If you’re looking for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, this is the dip your guests will talk about long after the party’s over.
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INGREDIENTS IN BUFFALO CHICKEN DIP
This buffalo chicken dip comes together with just a few simple ingredients—most of which you likely have on hand. Each one adds a layer of creamy, spicy, and savory goodness that makes this dip totally irresistible.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken – Great for using up leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken. It’s the base of this flavorful shredded chicken dip.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – This creates the creamy, rich base that holds everything together. It’s what turns this into the ultimate cream cheese dip.
- ½ cup ranch dressing – Adds tangy depth and cools the heat slightly. You can also use buffalo chicken dip with blue cheese if you prefer that bold flavor.
- ½ cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce – The classic choice for authentic hot sauce dip flavor. It’s spicy, bold, and absolutely essential.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully into a gooey, cheesy chicken dip. You can also try a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for extra richness.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – For that extra flavor boost.
- Optional: 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese – For lovers of a more intense flavor in your buffalo chicken dip with blue cheese.
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Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Recipe
Making the perfect buffalo chicken dip is easier than you think. Here are some tested tips to help you get the most out of this crave-worthy dish:
- Use freshly shredded chicken – While canned or pre-packaged chicken works in a pinch, freshly shredded chicken dip has better texture and flavor. Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect.
- Soften your cream cheese – Cold cream cheese won’t mix smoothly. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave it for 15–20 seconds to make blending easy.
- Balance your heat – Frank’s RedHot Sauce is classic, but you can adjust the amount depending on how spicy you like it. For a spicy chicken dip, add extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne.
- Make it a keto-friendly option – This recipe is naturally a low carb dip. Just skip the crackers and serve with celery sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips for a satisfying keto buffalo chicken dip.
- Mix in extras – Want to take it up a notch? Stir in chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, or a splash of blue cheese dressing for added flavor.
- Double it for a crowd – This easy buffalo chicken dip disappears fast. If you’re serving a larger group, consider doubling the recipe and baking it in a 9×13 dish.
- Use the slow cooker for convenience – Turn it into a slow cooker buffalo chicken dip by combining all the ingredients and warming on low for 2–3 hours.
With these tips, you’ll always end up with a smooth, cheesy, and flavorful buffalo chicken dip recipe that your guests will love.
Here’s How to Make the Best Buffalo Chicken Dip
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the ideal temperature for a bubbly, golden oven baked buffalo chicken dip.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Softened cream cheese
- Shredded chicken
- Frank’s RedHot Sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic powder
Use a hand mixer or spoon to blend until smooth. This creamy base gives you that signature cheesy chicken dip texture.
Step 3: Stir in the Cheese
Fold in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. This creates that rich, gooey melt everyone loves in a buffalo chicken dip with cream cheese.
Step 4: Transfer to a Baking Dish
Spread the mixture evenly into a 9-inch baking dish or similar oven-safe container.
Step 5: Bake
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. The cheese should be fully melted and slightly golden on top.
Step 6: Optional Toppings
For extra flavor, top with crumbled blue cheese, sliced green onions, or a drizzle of ranch dressing once out of the oven.
That’s it! You’ve just made a creamy, hot sauce dip that’s better than wings and perfect for scooping with chips, veggies, or even toasted bread.
Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Ahead of Time—Easy Tips
Yes—this is a perfect make ahead buffalo chicken dip! You can fully prepare the dip up to 2 days in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
When you’re ready to serve:
- Let it sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes.
- Then bake as directed until hot and bubbly.
If you’re short on time during party prep, this make-ahead option is a lifesaver. You can also assemble it in the morning and bake it fresh right before guests arrive.
Can I Freeze Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Technically, yes. You can freeze the buffalo chicken dip after baking. Let it cool completely, then place it in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
To reheat:
- Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Bake at 350°F until warmed through (about 20–25 minutes).
Keep in mind that dips with dairy may change texture slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be great.
Whether you’re planning for game day or making use of a leftover chicken recipe, this dip is flexible, convenient, and always a hit.
WHAT TO SERVE WITH BUFFALO CHICKEN DIP
This buffalo chicken dip is the ultimate game day appetizer and pairs perfectly with a wide variety of dippers. Whether you’re keeping it classic or offering low-carb choices, here are the best ways to serve it:
Best Dippers for Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Tortilla chips – The classic choice for a crunchy, salty bite.
- Celery sticks – Adds freshness and balances the heat. Great for a low carb dip option.
- Carrot sticks – Slightly sweet and perfect with the creamy, spicy dip.
- Crackers – Buttery, salty crackers make every scoop extra satisfying.
- Toasted baguette slices – Perfect for party platters and sturdier dipping.
Other Great Pairings
- Bell pepper strips – A fresh, crunchy, and keto-friendly choice.
- Pita chips or pretzel crisps – Hearty and hold up well with thick dips.
- Mini slider buns – Turn it into a spread for mini sandwiches!
Whether you’re hosting a football watch party or bringing a dish to a potluck, this cheesy chicken dip fits every occasion. Keep things fun by offering a variety of dippers so everyone can enjoy it their own way.
Buffalo Chicken Dip FAQ
What makes Buffalo chicken dip thick?
Cream cheese and shredded cheese help thicken the dip and give it a creamy texture.
What are the ingredients in Good Foods Buffalo chicken dip?
Good Foods version usually includes shredded chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, ranch dressing, and cheddar cheese—similar to classic recipes but may use natural or organic ingredients.
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients
- 2 cups Cooked shredded chicken Use leftover or rotisserie chicken
- 8 oz Cream cheese Softened
- ½ cup Ranch dressing
- ½ cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce Adjust to taste
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp Garlic powder
- 2 tbsp Blue cheese crumbles Optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, Frank’s RedHot Sauce, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
- Fold in shredded chicken and cheddar cheese until evenly mixed.
- Spread the mixture into a 9-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Optional: Top with blue cheese crumbles or green onions before serving.
Notes
- For a low-carb or keto version, serve with celery or bell pepper sticks instead of chips.
- This dip can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- To freeze, bake first, cool completely, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.