This Buffalo Chicken Dip is creamy, spicy, and oh-so-cheesy, making it perfect for parties or game nights! With shredded chicken and cream cheese, it’s super easy to whip up.
You can serve it with chips or veggies, and trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds. I can’t resist diving into this spicy goodness! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. If you don’t have it, you can use leftover chicken or even canned chicken for convenience.
Cream Cheese: Look for full-fat cream cheese for that extra creaminess, but you can swap it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option if you’re watching calories.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is the classic choice, but if it’s too spicy, try a milder hot sauce or whisk in a bit of honey to tone it down.
Ranch Dressing: If you prefer blue cheese, go ahead and substitute it for ranch – it adds a distinct tangy flavor to your dip.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are great together, but feel free to use pepper jack for extra heat or any cheese that melts well.
What’s the Best Way to Mix the Ingredients?
Mixing the dip thoroughly is essential to get an even flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Start with softened cream cheese in a medium bowl to avoid lumps. You can microwave it for 15-20 seconds if needed.
- Gradually mix in the buffalo sauce and ranch. A hand mixer can quickly help get a creamy consistency.
- Once smooth, fold in the shredded chicken and cheeses. Use a spatula to gently combine, ensuring not to overwork the mixture.
- Spread it evenly in your baking dish for even cooking.
By following these steps, your dip will have a delightful consistency and flavor! Enjoy your game day or party treat! 🏈
Buffalo Chicken Dip With Cream Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing if preferred)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Buffalo Chicken Dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, making your total time around 30-35 minutes. Perfect for quick gatherings or a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your dip cooks evenly and gets nice and bubbly! While that’s heating up, grab a medium mixing bowl.
2. Mix the Base
In the mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing. Use a hand mixer or a fork to mix things together until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy base is what makes the dip so rich and flavorful!
3. Add the Chicken and Cheese
Now it’s time to add in the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well incorporated. You want each bite to be full of flavor!
4. Bake the Dip
Transfer the cheesy mixture into an oven-safe baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that it cooks nicely. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the dip is bubbly and the top is a lovely golden brown.
5. Garnish and Serve
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. If you want, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch. Serve this warm with your choice of sliced bread, tortilla chips, celery sticks, or carrot sticks. Enjoy your delicious Buffalo Chicken Dip!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is perfect for this dip and saves you time. Just shred the meat and you’re ready to go!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time! Just mix everything together, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, this dip freezes well! Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake until warmed through.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dip, use less buffalo wing sauce or opt for a milder hot sauce. You can also mix in some sour cream or Greek yogurt to tone down the heat while keeping it creamy.
