Buffalo chicken dip crock pot style is the easiest way to get a creamy, cheesy, and spicy appetizer ready with minimal effort. Whether it’s game day, a party, or a casual get-together, this dip is always a hit. The slow cooker keeps it warm and melty, so guests can enjoy it throughout the event.
This guide covers everything from the best ingredients to step-by-step cooking instructions and pro tips to keep your dip smooth and flavorful. Let’s dive into the ultimate buffalo chicken dip made in a crock pot!
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip
A Set-It-and-Forget-It Party Favorite
The slow cooker does all the work! Just toss in the ingredients, set the temperature, and let it cook. There’s no need for constant stirring or watching over the stove, making it the perfect hands-free appetizer.
Perfectly Creamy, Spicy, and Cheesy
Buffalo chicken dip is known for its bold buffalo heat, rich creaminess, and gooey melted cheese. The slow cooker helps blend the flavors while keeping everything smooth and warm for hours.
Only 5 Minutes of Prep Time
This recipe is fast and simple—just shred some chicken, mix in the cheese and sauces, and let the crock pot handle the rest. It’s an easy way to serve a crowd-pleasing appetizer with barely any effort.
Ingredients for the Best Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip
Choosing the Best Chicken (Rotisserie, Canned, or Fresh)
The chicken you use affects the dip’s texture and flavor. Here’s a quick guide:
| Type of Chicken | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Rotisserie Chicken | Pre-cooked, juicy, and flavorful. Great for quick prep. |
| Canned Chicken | Budget-friendly and convenient. Drain well before using. |
| Fresh Shredded Chicken | Leaner, firmer texture, but requires pre-cooking. |
For the best flavor and texture, rotisserie chicken is highly recommended. It’s moist, tender, and requires no extra cooking before mixing.
The Perfect Cheese Blend (Cream Cheese, Cheddar, and Blue Cheese)
Cheese gives buffalo chicken dip its signature creamy and gooey consistency. A mix of cheeses works best:
| Cheese Type | What It Adds |
|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | Richness and smooth texture |
| Shredded Cheddar | Bold, sharp cheese flavor |
| Blue Cheese Crumbles | Tangy bite (optional) |
For a stretchy, melty finish, try mixing in Monterey Jack or mozzarella along with cheddar.
Which Buffalo Sauce Works Best? (Frank’s RedHot vs. Other Brands)
Buffalo sauce makes or breaks the dip, so choosing the right one is key.
| Buffalo Sauce | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Frank’s RedHot | Classic, balanced heat with tangy vinegar notes |
| Texas Pete’s | Milder, slightly sweeter taste |
| Louisiana Hot Sauce | Bolder and spicier with a smoky touch |
| Homemade Buffalo Sauce | Fully customizable spice level |
For authentic buffalo flavor, Frank’s RedHot is the go-to choice. If you prefer a milder version, mix it with melted butter to tone down the heat.
Ranch vs. Blue Cheese Dressing: Which One to Use?
Both ranch and blue cheese dressing add extra creaminess, but they bring different flavors to the dip.
| Dressing Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Ranch Dressing | Creamy, mild flavor that blends smoothly |
| Blue Cheese Dressing | Stronger, tangier bite for bold taste |
Most people prefer ranch for its smoother, less overpowering taste, but blue cheese dressing is great if you love that extra bite.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor (Bacon, Jalapeños, or Ranch Seasoning)
Want to elevate your buffalo chicken dip? Try these add-ins for extra flavor:
- Crispy Bacon Bits – Adds a smoky, salty crunch.
- Diced Jalapeños – Brings a fresh, spicy kick.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix – Boosts the creamy, herby flavor.
- Chopped Green Onions – Adds a fresh, mild onion taste.
These small tweaks make a big difference in enhancing the dip’s overall flavor!
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Buffalo Chicken Dip in a Crock Pot
Prepping the Ingredients for the Best Texture
For the smoothest dip, follow these quick steps:
- Soften cream cheese – This ensures easy mixing.
- Shred chicken finely – Smaller pieces blend better into the dip.
- Grate cheese fresh – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Cooking Instructions for the Perfect Creamy Dip
- Add the Ingredients – Place shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch (or blue cheese dressing), and half the shredded cheddar into the slow cooker.
- Set the Slow Cooker – Cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or HIGH for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Stir and Melt – Once melted and creamy, mix in the remaining cheese. Let it cook for another 15 minutes until fully combined.
- Garnish and Serve – Top with green onions, blue cheese crumbles, or crispy bacon before serving.
How Long to Cook for Best Results (Low vs. High Setting)
| Slow Cooker Setting | Cooking Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| LOW (Best Option) | 3–4 hours | Keeps flavors well-balanced |
| HIGH (Faster Option) | 1.5–2 hours | Quicker but requires more stirring |
For the best texture, cooking on LOW is highly recommended.
Stirring and Serving Tips for a Smooth Consistency
- Stir every 30–45 minutes to prevent cheese separation.
- Keep heat on LOW once fully melted to maintain the perfect consistency.
- If the dip thickens too much, add a splash of milk or extra buffalo sauce to loosen it.
How to Keep Buffalo Chicken Dip Warm for Hours
Using the “Keep Warm” Function Without Drying It Out
Most slow cookers have a Keep Warm function, but leaving the dip on for too long can cause it to dry out.
Best Tip: Stir in an extra ¼ cup of buffalo sauce or ranch before setting it to Keep Warm to maintain creaminess.
Best Storage Containers to Retain Creaminess
For leftovers, use an airtight glass container to preserve freshness.
| Storage Option | Best Use |
|---|---|
| Glass Container | Retains moisture, prevents separation |
| Plastic Container | Works, but may absorb flavors |
| Ziplock Bag (For Freezing) | Saves space, but must be thawed properly |
How to Revive Leftover Dip Without Losing Flavor
Reheat the dip using one of these methods:
| Method | Best For | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | Best texture | Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes |
| Microwave | Fastest option | Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time |
| Slow Cooker | Keeping warm | Heat on LOW for 1 hour |
For the best results, stir in a splash of milk or extra buffalo sauce before reheating.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo chicken dip is bold, cheesy, and packed with spicy flavor. The right pairings balance the heat and enhance the experience. Whether you’re serving it at a party or making it for game day, these dippers and drinks will take it to the next level.
Best Dippers (Chips, Crackers, and Veggies)
The best dippers offer crunch, sturdiness, and a complementary flavor to the creamy, cheesy dip.
Crunchy & Sturdy Options:
- Tortilla Chips – Thick and sturdy enough for scooping.
- Pita Chips – Adds a toasty, nutty contrast.
- Pretzels – Salty and firm, great for dipping.
- Bagel Chips – Dense and crunchy, holds up well.
Lighter, Fresh Options:
- Celery Sticks – Classic pairing to cool down the spice.
- Carrot Sticks – Sweet and crisp contrast to the heat.
- Bell Pepper Slices – Adds a fresh, juicy bite.
For a low-carb option, use cucumber slices or pork rinds instead of chips!
Drinks That Pair Well with the Spicy Flavor
Buffalo chicken dip has a bold, tangy heat, so a refreshing drink helps balance it out.
| Drink | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Light Beer (Lager or Wheat Beer) | Smooth and refreshing, balances the spice. |
| Sweet Iced Tea | Mildly sweet, cools the heat. |
| Lemonade | Tart and citrusy, perfect contrast to buffalo sauce. |
| Milk-Based Drinks (Milkshakes, Lassi) | Neutralizes spice, making the dip easier to enjoy. |
| Crisp White Wine (Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc) | Slight sweetness complements the tangy flavors. |
How to Turn Leftovers into a New Meal (Buffalo Chicken Wraps, Sandwiches, or Pizza Topping)
If you have leftover buffalo chicken dip, don’t let it go to waste! Transform it into a new meal with these creative ideas:
- Buffalo Chicken Wrap – Spread dip on a tortilla, add lettuce, and roll up.
- Stuffed Baked Potato – Scoop it inside a baked potato for a spicy, cheesy filling.
- Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese – Layer dip between bread and grill for a melty sandwich.
- Buffalo Chicken Pizza – Use it as a pizza topping with mozzarella cheese.
- Omelet or Scramble – Stir into eggs for a protein-packed breakfast.
These quick meal ideas make buffalo chicken dip even more versatile!
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Even though crock pot buffalo chicken dip is easy, a few small mistakes can affect texture and flavor. Here’s how to fix them:
Why Is My Dip Too Thick or Too Thin?
- If it’s too thick – Stir in a splash of milk or extra buffalo sauce to loosen it.
- If it’s too thin – Add more shredded cheese and let it cook a bit longer.
A perfect dip should be creamy but still easy to scoop!
How to Prevent a Greasy Texture
A greasy dip happens when cheese separates from the sauce.
- Use fresh shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged (it melts better).
- Avoid overheating—keep the crock pot on LOW after melting.
- Stir occasionally to keep everything blended smoothly.
A well-mixed dip should be silky, not oily!
Fixing a Bland Buffalo Chicken Dip
If the dip lacks bold buffalo flavor, try these quick fixes:
- Add extra buffalo sauce (start with 1 tbsp and adjust).
- Sprinkle in cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for depth.
- Use blue cheese crumbles for a sharper bite.
A good buffalo dip should be spicy, tangy, and well-seasoned!
Fun Variations & Customization Ideas
Want to put a twist on classic buffalo chicken dip? Try these variations!
Buffalo Chicken Dip with Rotel Tomatoes
Adding Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies) gives the dip a Tex-Mex twist.
- Mix in 1 can of drained Rotel tomatoes before cooking.
- Pair with Monterey Jack cheese for an even smoother texture.
- Add taco seasoning for a bold kick.
This variation is spicy, tangy, and full of flavor!
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Buffalo Dip
Buffalo chicken dip can be easily adjusted for keto and low-carb diets.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and cheddar (no reduced-fat versions).
- Skip store-bought ranch (make a homemade low-carb version).
- Serve with celery, cucumber slices, or keto crackers.
This keeps it creamy, rich, and guilt-free!
Making It Extra Spicy (Hot Sauce Additions)
Love the heat? Here’s how to make it even spicier:
- Add diced jalapeños for a fresh kick.
- Stir in cayenne pepper for layered heat.
- Use a spicier buffalo sauce like Frank’s XTRA Hot or a habanero-based sauce.
Turn up the heat as much as you like!
FAQs About Buffalo Chicken Dip
Can I Use Canned Chicken for Buffalo Dip?
Yes! Canned chicken is quick and easy, but make sure to drain it well. For the best texture, shred it slightly before mixing.
How Long Does Buffalo Chicken Dip Last?
Proper storage keeps buffalo chicken dip fresh for several days.
| Storage Method | How Long It Lasts |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator (Airtight Container) | Up to 4 days |
| Freezer (Unbaked, Well-Sealed) | Up to 3 months |
Tip: If frozen, thaw before reheating for best results.
Can You Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Without Cream Cheese?
Yes! While cream cheese is the traditional base, you can substitute it with:
- Greek Yogurt – Adds creaminess with extra protein.
- Sour Cream – Lighter and slightly tangy.
- Heavy Cream & Extra Cheese – Keeps it thick without cream cheese.
Each alternative creates a different texture and taste, so experiment to find your favorite!
Final Thoughts
Crock pot buffalo chicken dip is the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors, making it a must-have for game days, parties, or family gatherings. The slow cooker keeps it warm and melty, ensuring every bite is just as good as the first.
To make the best buffalo chicken dip in a crock pot:
- Use rotisserie chicken for easy prep and great flavor.
- Pick the right cheese blend for maximum creaminess.
- Adjust spice levels to match your taste.
- Make it ahead and reheat for convenience.
Try this easy crock pot buffalo chicken dip recipe and customize it to your liking! What’s your favorite way to serve it? Let us know!
Looking for more delicious ideas to complement your Buffalo Chicken Dip? Whether you’re planning a party spread or just want to try something new, these recipes will take your appetizer game to the next level:
1️⃣ Craving More Cheesy Comfort? Try this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole—a perfect mix of creamy, cheesy goodness with a hearty twist!
2️⃣ Looking for the Ultimate Party Appetizer? These Air Fryer Hash Browns pair perfectly with buffalo chicken dip for a crunchy, satisfying bite.
3️⃣ Want a Sweet & Savory Twist? Add a smoky-sweet kick to your dip with shredded chicken from this Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken recipe.
Table of contents
Buffalo Chicken Dip Crock Pot
Equipment
- Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)
- Mixing Spoon
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken rotisserie or canned
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup blue cheese crumbles optional
- ¾ cup buffalo sauce Frank’s RedHot recommended
- ½ cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Shred the chicken and soften the cream cheese.
- Combine in Crock Pot: Add chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch/blue cheese dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours or HIGH for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar and blue cheese (if using) on top. Cover and let melt for 10-15 minutes.
- Serve Hot: Stir well and serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.
Notes
Calories: 250 kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 65mg | Sodium: 880mg | Potassium: 260mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 580IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 170mg | Iron: 0.7mg