Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip is a fantastic mix of spicy, creamy, and cheesy goodness all rolled into one irresistible dip. Made with shredded chicken, tangy cream cheese, bold Frank’s RedHot sauce, and plenty of melted cheese, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for game days, parties, or any time you’re craving a little kick.
I love making this dip because it’s super easy to throw together, and it always disappears fast once it hits the table. One tip I’ve picked up is to warm it just right so the cheese gets all melty and luscious without drying out. Plus, the tang of the hot sauce perfectly balances with the creaminess, giving every bite that perfect spicy punch.
My favorite way to enjoy it is scooping it up with crispy celery sticks, crunchy tortilla chips, or warm, soft pretzels. Every time I make it, friends ask for the recipe, and it’s seriously become my go-to for bringing people together—because who can resist a warm, cheesy dip with a little heat?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked chicken breast: Shredded chicken adds great texture and protein. If you want a shortcut, rotisserie chicken works perfectly here. For a vegetarian twist, consider substituting with shredded jackfruit or chickpeas.
Cream cheese: This is what makes the dip creamy and rich. Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture, but light or Neufchatel works if you want fewer calories.
Frank’s RedHot sauce: This sauce gives the classic buffalo heat and tang. You can swap it with other buffalo wing sauces or even mix hot sauce with a bit of melted butter for a similar flavor.
Ranch or blue cheese dressing: This adds cool creaminess and balances the heat. If dairy is an issue, try dairy-free ranch or blue cheese alternatives, or even plain Greek yogurt mixed with herbs.
Cheeses (mozzarella, cheddar, blue cheese): Mozzarella and cheddar give gooey meltiness and flavor depth. Blue cheese topping adds sharpness and a nice bite. You can adjust types of cheese based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
How Can I Get the Perfectly Melty, Creamy Dip Without It Getting Dry?
Making buffalo chicken dip creamy and smooth is all about mixing and baking just right:
- Soften cream cheese well: Let it come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother base.
- Mix ingredients thoroughly: Blend the hot sauce and cream cheese first so the heat spreads evenly, then stir in chicken and cheeses.
- Don’t overbake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) just until the dip is bubbly around the edges—about 20-25 minutes. Overbaking can dry it out.
- Cover if needed: If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil to keep moisture in.
- Serve warm: Buffalo dip is best enjoyed hot and gooey. Reheat gently if storing leftovers.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – I use a large one to combine all ingredients easily and prevent splatters.
- Rubber spatula – perfect for mixing the softened cream cheese and hot sauce thoroughly.
- Oven-safe casserole or baking dish – I recommend a 9-inch dish, so the dip bakes evenly and looks nice when served.
- Measuring cups and spoons – essential for accurate ingredient amounts and balanced flavor.
- Serving spoon or spatula – for scooping out the dip once it’s hot and bubbly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey for different meats that stay tender and flavorful.
- Add chopped celery or bell peppers into the dip for extra crunch and freshness.
- Mix in some hot honey or a splash of lime juice for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese instead of blue cheese for a milder, creamy flavor.
Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce (or your favorite buffalo wing sauce)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing as preferred)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (for topping)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Optional: paprika or cayenne pepper for extra flavor and garnish
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 to 25 minutes to bake, so all together you can enjoy your dip in around 35 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect whenever you want a warm, cheesy snack!
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you finish mixing your dip ingredients.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with Frank’s RedHot sauce until smooth and creamy. This gives your dip the perfect spicy, tangy base.
3. Add More Flavor:
Stir in ranch dressing, shredded chicken, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese. Mix everything well so all those delicious flavors come together.
4. Bake the Dip:
Spread the mixture evenly in a baking dish or casserole dish. Bake it for 20 to 25 minutes until it’s hot and bubbling around the edges.
5. Add the Final Touches:
Take the dip out of the oven and sprinkle crumbled blue cheese and sliced green onions on top. For a little extra color and spice, add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper if you like.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your buffalo chicken dip warm with celery sticks, carrot sticks, tortilla chips, or slices of crusty bread. Scoop, dip, and enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before shredding and mixing it in. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the quick-thaw method by placing the sealed chicken in cold water. Pat dry before adding to prevent extra moisture.
Can I Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip mixture, store it covered in the fridge, and bake it fresh when needed. You can also bake it in advance and reheat gently in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot, stirring occasionally to keep it creamy.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes! Use more or less Frank’s RedHot sauce depending on your heat preference. For milder flavor, use less hot sauce and add more ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat.