Creamy Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip is a rich and zesty appetizer that brings together shredded chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, and a mix of melted cheeses for a perfect party treat. It’s got that classic buffalo wing flavor with a smooth, creamy texture that everyone seems to love.
I always make this dip when friends come over because it’s such a crowd-pleaser. I like to add a little extra hot sauce to give it a nice kick, but you can easily adjust it to your taste. The best part is how simple it is to whip up—just mix everything together and bake until it’s bubbly and golden on top.
My favorite way to serve this dip is with crunchy celery sticks, carrot slices, and crispy tortilla chips. It’s great for game days or casual get-togethers where people can scoop, dip, and chat. This dip always brings people to the table and keeps the good times rolling!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Buffalo Chicken Dip
Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for ease and flavor. If you don’t have any, shredded boiled or grilled chicken breast works just as well.
Cream Cheese: This is what makes the dip nice and creamy. Softening it before mixing helps everything blend smoothly. For a lighter option, try Neufchatel cheese.
Buffalo Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is the classic choice here. If you want less heat, reduce the amount or use a milder hot sauce like Texas Pete.
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Choose based on your favorite dip flavor. Ranch adds a smooth tang, while blue cheese dressing gives a punchier, richer taste.
Cheese: Cheddar adds sharpness, mozzarella brings gooey meltiness. Feel free to swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little extra zing.
Blue Cheese Crumbles: These add that signature buffalo wing flavor. Not a fan? You can skip or substitute with extra cheddar, but it’s worth trying if you’re curious.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy and Bubbling Buffalo Chicken Dip?
The key is blending your ingredients evenly and baking just right so it stays creamy, not dry or oily.
- Soften your cream cheese well at room temp to avoid lumps.
- Mix all ingredients until smooth before baking—this helps flavors blend.
- Use an oven-safe dish to get even heat. Avoid too thin a dish or your dip might dry out.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until it’s bubbling around the edges and the top is gently browned.
- Let the dip sit for a few minutes after baking; it firms up slightly and is easier to scoop.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – I like a large one so I can stir everything comfortably without spilling.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping green onions and preparing other toppings.
- Oven-safe skillet or baking dish – it makes baking and serving easier, especially if you plan to bring it directly to the table.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredients just right.
- Spatula or mixing spoon – for combining all the ingredients smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shredded chicken for cooked turkey or even canned chicken for convenience.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of or along with cheddar and mozzarella for more spice.
- Mix in additional veggies like diced bell peppers or cooked corn for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Spice it up further with a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot paprika on top before baking for a smoky kick.
Creamy Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or boiled)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Celery sticks and tortilla chips, for serving
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or cayenne for extra spice and color
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. So, you’ll have a delicious, spicy dip ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for last-minute gatherings or game nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your dip is assembled.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, buffalo hot sauce, and ranch or blue cheese dressing until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Chicken and Cheese:
Fold in the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and blue cheese crumbles. Mix well to combine everything evenly.
4. Prepare to Bake:
Spread the mixture evenly into an oven-safe skillet or baking dish. If you like, sprinkle smoked paprika or cayenne on top for color and an extra spicy kick.
5. Bake the Dip:
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the dip bubbles and the top turns a nice light golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions and extra blue cheese crumbles. Serve warm with celery sticks and tortilla chips for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before shredding. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use a quick cold water bath. Pat the chicken dry to avoid extra moisture in the dip.
Can I Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip mixture and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready, bake as usual and enjoy it warm and bubbly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it creamy and smooth.
What Are Some Good Dippers for Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Classic options include celery sticks and tortilla chips, but you can also use carrot sticks, pita chips, or even sliced bell peppers. These add great crunch and balance the spicy dip.