You’ll love this baked buffalo chicken dip because it’s packed with flavor, simple to make, and always a hit at gatherings. It combines the tangy heat of buffalo sauce with the richness of cheese and the savory taste of chicken—all baked to golden perfection. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving, making entertaining stress-free and delicious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
Cream cheese (softened)
Buffalo-style hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
Ranch or blue cheese dressing
Shredded cheddar cheese
Mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra melt)
Crumbled blue cheese (optional)
Green onions or parsley (for garnish)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch or blue cheese dressing. Mix until smooth.
Fold in the shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Spread the mixture evenly into a baking dish (8×8-inch or similar).
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese (and mozzarella or blue cheese, if using) on top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly around the edges.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6–8 servings as an appetizer. Prep time is approximately 10 minutes, and baking time is 20–25 minutes, totaling around 30–35 minutes from start to finish.
Variations
Swap ranch for blue cheese dressing for a stronger, tangier flavor.
Add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
Substitute Greek yogurt for part of the cream cheese to lighten it up.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals. Stir between intervals to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I make buffalo chicken dip ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dip up to a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze buffalo chicken dip?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.
What’s the best chicken to use?
Cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken is quick and flavorful, but any cooked chicken breast or thighs work well.
Can I use blue cheese instead of ranch?
Absolutely. If you prefer a sharper flavor, blue cheese dressing or crumbles are great substitutions.
Is this dip spicy?
It has a mild to moderate kick from the buffalo sauce, but you can adjust the heat by using more or less hot sauce.
What do I serve with buffalo chicken dip?
Serve with tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, crackers, toasted baguette slices, or pretzel crisps.
Can I cook this dip in a slow cooker?
Yes! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2–3 hours or until heated through and bubbly.
Can I make this dip dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free cream cheese, shredded cheese, and dressing alternatives, but flavor and texture may vary.
How do I keep the dip warm during a party?
Use a small slow cooker or chafing dish to keep the dip warm and melty while serving.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch dish. Adjust the baking time as needed.
Conclusion
Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip is the ultimate comfort food appetizer—creamy, spicy, cheesy, and always a crowd favorite. Whether you’re watching the big game, hosting a party, or just craving something warm and savory, this dip is guaranteed to be a hit. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again
Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and spicy appetizer made with shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and a blend of cheeses. Perfect for parties, game day, or casual gatherings, it’s always a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Ingredients
2 cups shredded cooked chicken (e.g., rotisserie)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup buffalo-style hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
Chopped green onions or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch or blue cheese dressing until smooth.
Fold in shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Spread the mixture evenly into an 8×8-inch baking dish.
Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and optional mozzarella or blue cheese.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly around the edges.
Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped green onions or parsley.
Serve warm with chips, veggies, or crackers.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor.Swap ranch with blue cheese dressing for a sharper taste.To add heat, mix in chopped jalapeños or a splash of extra hot sauce.Lighten the dip by replacing some cream cheese with Greek yogurt.Keep warm during parties in a slow cooker on low.
