When cozy gatherings call for something warm and comforting, I often turn to my favorite crowd-pleaser: Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip. This dip is an incredible alchemy of flavors, combining the bold zing of Buffalo wings with the lush creaminess that makes it utterly irresistible.
I discovered this gem during a last-minute scramble for an appetizer for game day, and I’ve never looked back! With just five simple ingredients and a mere 30 minutes of prep, it’s the perfect solution for those moments when you crave something spicy yet satisfying without the hassle of a lengthy recipe.
Imagine the creamy tang of ranch dressing meeting rich cream cheese, all wrapped around tender shredded chicken and the kick of Frank’s famous hot sauce. It’s a delightfully thick dip that calls for your favorite tortilla chips or crunchy veggies. Whether it’s a sports gathering or a casual get-together, this Buffalo Chicken Dip is bound to steal the show—plus, it’s just as easily made with your favorite hot sauce for a personal touch. Come join me in the kitchen and let’s whip up this dreamy dip together!
Why is buffalo chicken dip a crowd favorite?
Creamy, comforting goodness: The blend of cream cheese and ranch creates a deliciously smooth base, perfect for dipping.
Bold flavor: Frank’s RedHot brings the iconic Buffalo wing taste, adding just the right amount of heat that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Super easy to make: With just five ingredients and 30 minutes, you can whip up this dip without any stress.
Versatile options: Feel free to swap in your preferred hot sauce or salad dressings to customize the flavor!
Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s game day or a cozy night in, this dip is guaranteed to please both friends and family alike.
Buffalo Chicken Dip Ingredients
• Get ready for creamy goodness!
For the Dip
- Shredded Cooked Chicken – This is the heart of your dip, offering great texture; rotisserie chicken makes it even easier!
- Cream Cheese – Essential for that creamy richness; ensure it’s softened for smooth mixing.
- Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce – The star of the show, delivering that iconic Buffalo flavor; try substituting with Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Hot Sauce for extra zest!
- Ranch Dressing – Adds creaminess and a slight tang; using homemade ranch can elevate the flavor.
- Blue Cheese Crumbles – These add a delightful tang; you can use feta cheese for a milder option if preferred.
For Garnishing (optional)
- Green Onions – A sprinkle of fresh green onions brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
- Extra Blue Cheese – For the die-hard blue cheese fans, a few more crumbles on top will take it to the next level!
Prepare to satisfy everyone’s cravings with this irresistible buffalo chicken dip!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Dip
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your dip bakes evenly and reaches a delightful warmth.
Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until well combined. Be sure to break up any lumps in the cream cheese; it should be creamy and smooth!
Transfer the mixture to a shallow 1-quart baking dish. This helps it heat up evenly, allowing for a perfect texture.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until heated thoroughly; stir halfway through for even heating. The top will slightly bubble, signaling it’s ready!
Garnish with green onions and extra blue cheese if desired, then serve with chips, crackers, or fresh veggies. A colorful topping always makes it more appealing!
Optional: Serve with crunchy celery sticks for a refreshing contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Elevate your gathering with delightful accompaniments that perfectly balance and complement this creamy, spicy dip.
Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping, these crispy chips add an enjoyable crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dip.
Vegetable Crudités: Fresh veggies like celery and carrots provide a refreshing crunch, making each bite feel lighter and more balanced.
Crackers: A variety of crackers, from buttery to whole grain, give a satisfying crunch and extra flavor that pairs wonderfully with the dip.
Mini Pretzel Bites: Their unique salty flavor and soft texture make them a fun pairing, enhancing the spicy elements of the dip.
Garlic Breadsticks: These warm, buttery treats bring a savory twist to the table, soaking up the rich flavors of the dip effortlessly.
Fruit Platter: A refreshing platter of grapes or apple slices offers a sweet contrast to the spiciness, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Beer or Hard Cider: A crisp, cold beer or a refreshing hard cider can cut through the richness of the dip, making sips as enjoyable as bites.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Pair with a tangy lemonade or a sweet iced tea to refresh the palate between bites of that spicy dip.
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Dip preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can mix the dip ingredients (shredded chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, ranch dressing, and blue cheese) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine everything in a bowl, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. For optimal flavor, allow it to marinate overnight. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the dip to a baking dish. Bake for about 20 minutes until heated through and bubbly. This way, you’ll achieve that creamy, delicious dip with minimal effort on game day!
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Dip
Cream Cheese Softness: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps and achieve a silky texture.
Adjust the Heat: For those who love the spice, feel free to add extra Frank’s RedHot hot sauce. Start with a teaspoon and taste before adding more.
Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on your dip while it bakes; over-baking can dry it out. It should be heated through, not bubbling excessively.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with a variety of dippers like tortilla chips, celery sticks, and carrot sticks to cater to everyone’s taste preferences and add crunch.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve its creamy consistency.
Storage Tips for Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the dip is completely cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
- Freezer: You can freeze buffalo chicken dip for up to 3 months. Use a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.
- Airtight Storage: Always use airtight containers to keep the dip fresh and to maintain its creamy texture for longer.
Buffalo Chicken Dip Variations
Feel free to get creative with this beloved dip and make it your own!
Healthier Swap: Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed option.
Substituting Greek yogurt keeps the dip creamy while reducing calories. It’s a win-win for health-conscious friends!Extra Spice: Stir in diced jalapeños to amp up the heat.
This simple addition will give your dip a delightful kick and provide that extra layer of flavor. Perfect for spice lovers!Vegetarian Option: Substitute shredded chicken with shredded jackfruit or finely chopped mushrooms.
This twist keeps the hearty texture while catering to your vegetarian friends, ensuring everyone can enjoy the dip.Cheesy Goodness: Mix in cheddar or mozzarella cheese for a decadent, cheesy version.
As it bakes, the cheese melts beautifully, providing an irresistible stringy texture. Who can resist extra cheese?Smoky Flavor: Add a touch of smoked paprika for a warm, smoky undertone.
This small change transforms the dip, enhancing the flavor profile with a unique twist that will surprise your taste buds!Buffalo Sauce Twist: Experiment with different hot sauces like sriracha or habanero for a distinctive twist.
Different sauces can completely change the character of your dip, so feel free to explore and find your favorite!Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Adding herbs not only elevates the taste but also brightens the overall look, making your dip even more appealing.Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture and an unexpected crunch.
This twist adds an interesting contrast to the creamy base, making your dip stand out at any gathering!
Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to choose ripe ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Absolutely! When selecting your chicken, opt for freshly cooked or high-quality rotisserie chicken for the best flavor and texture. For cream cheese, ensure it’s softened—look for blocks with a smooth appearance and no visible cracks. The ranch dressing should be creamy, and if you’re using blue cheese, go for crumbles that are moist and have a pungent aroma. If you can, squeeze a bottle of Frank’s RedHot; it should flow smoothly without any separation.
How should I store leftovers from Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Very good question! Store any leftover Buffalo Chicken Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before sealing the container, let the dip cool to room temperature to prevent condensation. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until it’s warmed through, giving it a good stir to reintroduce its creamy texture.
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Dip for later use?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the dip in a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of space at the top for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What should I do if my Buffalo Chicken Dip turns out too thick?
If your dip is thicker than desired, don’t fret! You can mix in a little bit of milk or sour cream—start with just a tablespoon at a time, stirring until the dip reaches your desired consistency. Another option is to blend in some ranch dressing for a smoother texture and additional flavor. It’s all about personal preferences, so feel free to adjust to your liking!
Is Buffalo Chicken Dip safe for my pets?
While mammal-safe, most ingredients in Buffalo Chicken Dip are not suitable for pets, especially spiced items. Cream cheese is usually okay in small amounts, but avoid giving anything with hot sauce, blue cheese, or ranch dressing to your furry friends. Always consult your vet before sharing human food with pets to keep them safe and healthy.
Can I use alternatives for the ingredients if I have allergies?
Definitely! If you have dairy allergies, consider substituting cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese or a cashew-based alternative. For the chicken, shredded tofu or chickpeas can work as a plant-based substitute. If you’re sensitive to gluten, serve the dip with gluten-free options like veggie sticks or rice crackers. The more the merrier in terms of flavor variations!
Creamy Buffalo Chicken Dip That's Perfect for Game Day Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a shallow 1-quart baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until heated thoroughly; stir halfway through.
- Garnish with green onions and extra blue cheese if desired, then serve with chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.