Buffalo chicken dip is the ultimate game-day appetizer, combining the bold flavors of spicy buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, and tender chicken into a dip that’s irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re hosting a party, tailgating, or meal prepping, this easy Buffalo chicken dip recipe is perfect for making ahead of time without losing flavor or texture.
This guide covers everything you need to know, from picking the best ingredients to cooking methods and storing tips—ensuring your buffalo dip stays creamy, cheesy, and perfectly spicy whenever you serve it.
What Is Buffalo Chicken Dip?
A Classic Party Favorite
Buffalo chicken dip is a hot, cheesy dip made with shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, ranch dressing, and melted cheese. It’s inspired by Buffalo wings but transformed into a dippable, creamy version perfect for serving with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.
This dip has become a Super Bowl staple, a must-have for potlucks, parties, and family gatherings. It’s easy to prepare, takes minimal ingredients, and can be baked, slow-cooked, or made in the Instant Pot.
Why This Recipe Works (Creamy, Spicy, Cheesy, and Easy to Make)
- Creamy & Cheesy – The blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and ranch dressing gives it a smooth, rich texture.
- Spicy & Tangy – Buffalo sauce brings the signature heat with a zesty kick.
- Simple Ingredients – Uses just a few pantry staples and comes together in minutes.
- Versatile Cooking Methods – Can be baked, made in a slow cooker, or cooked in an Instant Pot.
- Perfect for Make-Ahead – Stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.
Ingredients for the Best Buffalo Chicken Dip
Choosing the Right Chicken (Rotisserie, Canned, or Shredded)
Buffalo chicken dip starts with shredded chicken, but the type of chicken you use affects both texture and flavor.
| Chicken Type | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Rotisserie Chicken | Pre-cooked, juicy, and adds extra flavor. Best for convenience. |
| Canned Chicken | Budget-friendly and quick but may lack texture. Drain well before using. |
| Shredded Chicken Breast | Leaner option, perfect if you prefer a firmer texture. |
For best results, rotisserie chicken is recommended for its moisture and flavor, but shredded or canned chicken also work well.
👉 Craving more cheesy comfort food? Try this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole for a rich, satisfying bite.
Best Cheese for Buffalo Chicken Dip (Cream Cheese, Cheddar, and Blue Cheese)
A cheesy buffalo chicken dip depends on the right cheese blend.
| Cheese Type | Role in Dip |
|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | Base for creaminess and richness |
| Shredded Cheddar | Melts beautifully, adding a bold cheesy flavor |
| Blue Cheese Crumbles | Adds a tangy bite (optional) |
If you love extra cheesiness, try adding a blend of mozzarella and Monterey Jack for more stretch and melt.
Buffalo Sauce Selection (Frank’s RedHot vs. Other Sauces)
Buffalo sauce is the key ingredient, and Frank’s RedHot Original is the classic choice.
| Sauce | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Frank’s RedHot | Classic, balanced heat with tangy vinegar notes |
| Texas Pete’s | Milder heat, slightly sweeter |
| Louisiana Hot Sauce | Bolder, spicier kick |
| Homemade Buffalo Sauce | Customize heat and tanginess |
For milder dip, use Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce, which has butter already mixed in for a smoother taste.
Ranch vs. Blue Cheese Dressing: Which Is Better?
Choosing ranch or blue cheese dressing depends on personal preference.
| Dressing | Best for |
|---|---|
| Ranch Dressing | Creamier, milder, and slightly tangy |
| Blue Cheese Dressing | Bolder, sharper, and more tangy |
Most people prefer ranch for its smoother, milder flavor, but if you love the strong bite of blue cheese, go for it!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Step by Step
Oven-Baked Method (Traditional)
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and half of the shredded cheese.
- Spread mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot with chips, celery, or crackers.
Love bold flavors? Try making this Buffalo chicken dip ahead of time so it’s ready when guests arrive. Have you ever tried adding extra cheese or a spicy twist? Let us know in the comments!
Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip (For Making Ahead)
- Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
- Stir well and cover with the lid.
- Cook on LOW for 2-3 hours or HIGH for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Once hot and melted, serve straight from the crockpot to keep it warm.
Why use a crockpot?
✔ Keeps dip warm for hours—great for parties!
✔ No need to check on it—just dump, stir, and cook.
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip (Quickest Option)
- Add chicken, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing to the Instant Pot.
- Pressure cook on HIGH for 5 minutes, then quick release.
- Stir in cream cheese and shredded cheese until melted.
- Serve immediately or use the “Keep Warm” function.
The Instant Pot method is best for when you’re short on time but still want a hot, melty dip.
How to Make It Ahead of Time & Reheat Perfectly
Prepping the Dip in Advance
If you’re making this ahead of time, mix all ingredients together and store uncooked in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge.
| Prep Method | Best Storage Time |
|---|---|
| Unbaked in fridge | Up to 2 days |
| Fully cooked in fridge | Up to 4 days |
| Frozen (uncooked) | Up to 3 months |
Best Ways to Store It (Refrigerator & Freezing Tips)
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container and reheat when needed.
- Freezing: Assemble dip before baking, freeze for up to 3 months, and bake straight from frozen (add 10-15 extra minutes).
Reheating Instructions for Best Texture (Oven, Microwave, Slow Cooker)
| Reheating Method | Best For | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | Best for crispy top | Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes |
| Microwave | Quickest option | Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring each time |
| Slow Cooker | Best for keeping warm | Heat on LOW for 1-2 hours |
For best results, stir before serving to redistribute flavors and creaminess.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo chicken dip is creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. Pairing it with the right dippers and drinks can enhance the experience and balance its spicy kick.
Best Dippers (Crackers, Chips, & Veggies)
The best dippers for buffalo chicken dip add crunch and contrast to the creamy texture. Here are some great options:
Crunchy Dippers:
- Tortilla Chips – Sturdy and perfect for scooping up melted cheese
- Pita Chips – Adds a toasty, nutty flavor
- Crackers – Butter crackers or Ritz for a salty crunch
Fresh Veggies:
- Celery Sticks – Classic choice that cools down the spice
- Carrot Sticks – Sweet and crisp for a nice contrast
- Bell Pepper Slices – Mild and crunchy for extra texture
Other Fun Options:
- Soft Pretzels – A salty, chewy option that soaks up the flavors
- French Bread Slices – Great for spreading warm, cheesy dip
- Tater Tots – Unexpected but delicious!
👉 Need something crunchy on the side? These Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli Bites add the perfect crispy contrast.
Drinks That Pair Well with This Spicy Dip
Buffalo chicken dip has a tangy, spicy bite, so pairing it with the right drink can cool down the heat and balance the flavors.
Best Drink Pairings:
- Cold Beer – Light lagers or wheat beers complement the spice
- Iced Sweet Tea – Refreshing and smooths out the heat
- Lemonade – Tart and sweet to contrast the buffalo sauce
- Milk-Based Drinks – A milkshake or lassi can neutralize the spice
- Crisp White Wine – Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc adds a fruity balance
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Even though buffalo chicken dip is easy to make, small mistakes can affect its texture and flavor.
Why Is My Dip Too Thick or Too Thin?
Fix a Thick Dip:
- Add a splash of milk or extra buffalo sauce to loosen it
- Stir in a bit more ranch dressing for a smoother texture
Fix a Thin Dip:
- Add more shredded cheese to thicken it as it bakes
- Use less buffalo sauce or cream cheese if it’s too runny
How to Prevent a Greasy Texture
A greasy dip happens when cheese separates from the sauce.
Solutions:
- Use full-fat cheese (pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that make dips oily)
- Stir well and don’t overheat – high heat makes cheese separate
- Add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to stabilize the mixture
Fixing a Bland Buffalo Chicken Dip
If the dip doesn’t have enough bold buffalo flavor, here’s how to fix it:
- Add extra buffalo sauce (start with 1 tablespoon and adjust)
- Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika
- Use blue cheese crumbles for a sharper bite
Fun Variations & Customization Ideas
Buffalo chicken dip is easy to customize, making it even better for different tastes and diets.
Buffalo Chicken Dip with Rotel Tomatoes
Adding Rotel tomatoes makes the dip even more flavorful and adds a Tex-Mex twist.
- Mix in one can of drained Rotel tomatoes for a spicy, tangy boost
- Works well with Monterey Jack cheese for extra creaminess
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Buffalo Dip
Buffalo chicken dip can be keto-friendly with a few tweaks.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and cheddar
- Skip store-bought ranch (make a homemade low-carb version)
- Serve with cucumber slices, celery, or keto chips instead of crackers
Making It Extra Spicy (Hot Sauce Additions)
If you love extra heat, try these spice boosters:
- Add diced jalapeños for a fresh, fiery kick
- Stir in cayenne pepper for deeper heat
- Use a spicier buffalo sauce like Frank’s XTRA Hot
FAQs About Buffalo Chicken Dip
Can I Use Canned Chicken for Buffalo Dip?
Yes! Canned chicken is a quick and easy option, but make sure to drain it well to avoid a watery dip. 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 Guidelines:
- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in an airtight container
- Freezer: Up to 3 months (store unbaked and thaw before heating)
Can You Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Without Cream Cheese?
Yes! Cream cheese is the traditional base, but here are some substitutes:
- Greek Yogurt – Adds creaminess with extra protein
- Sour Cream – Lighter and slightly tangy
- Heavy Cream & Extra Cheese – Keeps it thick without using cream cheese
Final Thoughts
Buffalo chicken dip is the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors, making it an all-time favorite game-day snack. Whether you’re making it ahead of time, trying new variations, or serving it at a party, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
To make the best buffalo chicken dip:
- 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 buffalo chicken dip recipe and experiment with flavors! What’s your favorite way to serve it? Let us know!
Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe: How to Make It Ahead of Time
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Hand mixer (optional)
- Baking dish (8×8 or similar)
- Oven or slow cooker
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie, canned, or boiled
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup buffalo sauce Frank’s RedHot recommended
- ½ cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese divided
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese optional
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- 1️⃣ Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2️⃣ In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
- 3️⃣ Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese and blue cheese crumbles (if using).
- 4️⃣ Transfer the mixture to a greased 8×8-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- 5️⃣ Top with the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese.
- 6️⃣ Bake for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- 7️⃣ Remove from oven and garnish with chopped green onions.
- 8️⃣ Serve warm with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers.