Buffalo Chicken Dip is one of the most popular and viral party appetizers in the United States, and this easy Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe shows exactly why. Creamy, cheesy, spicy, and incredibly satisfying, this baked dip combines shredded chicken, rich cream cheese, ranch dressing, and classic buffalo hot sauce into a bubbling, golden appetizer that disappears within minutes at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, holiday event, potluck, or casual family movie night, this Buffalo Chicken Dip delivers bold flavor with very little effort. Even beginner cooks can easily prepare this crowd-pleasing recipe in under 30 minutes using simple grocery store ingredients.
Key Takeaways
• One of the most viral party appetizer recipes in the USA
• Quick and easy preparation using rotisserie chicken
• Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly spicy flavor
• Ideal for game day, parties, and gatherings
• Beginner-friendly recipe with simple ingredients
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe is loved across the country because it combines bold buffalo wing flavor with the comfort of a warm, creamy dip. Using rotisserie chicken makes preparation incredibly fast, while cream cheese and ranch dressing create a smooth, rich base that balances the heat of buffalo sauce. The melted cheddar cheese topping forms a golden, bubbly layer that makes every scoop irresistible. It’s also extremely versatile—you can adjust the spice level, swap cheeses, or prepare it ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra melt)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup extra shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Equipment
Mixing bowl
8×8 baking dish or small casserole dish
Spoon or spatula
Measuring cups
Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s fully heated before baking the dip.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and buffalo hot sauce. Stir thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and evenly blended with no visible lumps.
Add the shredded chicken into the bowl and mix well so the chicken is fully coated with the creamy buffalo mixture.
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese (if using), garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Lightly grease a baking dish and transfer the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly using a spatula.
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese across the top to create a golden melted layer.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the dip is hot throughout and the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and allow the dip to cool for about 5 minutes before serving so the texture thickens slightly.
Tips & Variations
For a milder flavor, reduce the buffalo sauce slightly and increase the ranch dressing.
For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Blue cheese dressing can replace ranch dressing for a classic buffalo wing flavor.
Using freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese gives the smoothest melt.
You can prepare the dip mixture ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Buffalo Chicken Dip hot with tortilla chips, pita chips, crackers, or toasted baguette slices. For a lighter serving option, pair it with celery sticks, carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips. This dip is especially popular for Super Bowl parties, tailgates, birthday gatherings, and holiday celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Buffalo Chicken Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each interval until heated through.
For oven reheating, warm at 350°F for about 15 minutes until hot and bubbly again.
Nutrition (approx.)
Calories: 280 per serving
Protein: 18g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Sodium: 620mg
FAQs
Can I make Buffalo Chicken Dip ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the mixture in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, canned chicken works well if drained properly, though rotisserie chicken provides better flavor.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 2–3 hours until hot and melted.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack can be added for extra creaminess.
Conclusion
This easy Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines creamy texture, bold buffalo flavor, and irresistible melted cheese. With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and guaranteed party-favorite results, it’s a must-have recipe for every game day, celebration, or gathering. Once you try this Buffalo Chicken Dip, it will quickly become one of your most requested party recipes.