Simple Buffalo Chicken Dip is the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and cheesy flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. This cozy dish comes together in no time, making it an excellent choice for game day, parties, or a comforting night in. Serve it warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies, and watch it disappear!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Simple Buffalo Chicken Dip
A Quick and Easy Party Appetizer
This dip is incredibly simple to prepare, taking just 30-45 minutes from start to finish. You’ll love how quickly you can whip it up for any gathering, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy with friends. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to be a hit!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor for Any Occasion
The bold taste of hot sauce combined with creamy cheese makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party or watching the big game, this dip will bring everyone together for delicious bites and great conversations.
Ingredients for Simple Buffalo Chicken Dip
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3-4 chicken breasts (shredded or chopped)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1.25 cups ranch dressing
- 1.25 cups hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup green onions (sliced, for garnish)
- 1.75 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1.75 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
Optional Add-Ins and Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Substitute blue cheese dressing for ranch.
- Mix in Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of cream cheese.
- For less heat, combine hot sauce with melted butter.
- Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack cheese for different flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add the chicken breasts and simmer for 12-15 minutes until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken, let it cool slightly, and then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
Next, preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Create the Buffalo Sauce Base
In a large pot over medium heat, mix the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, hot sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir for 3-5 minutes until the cream cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients and Transfer to Baking Dish
Combine the cooked chicken with the sauce base, adding 1 cup each of mozzarella and cheddar cheese, along with most of the green onions (reserve some for garnish). Mix until well combined, then transfer it to the baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Bake Until Hot and Bubbly
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes until heated through and bubbly. You want the cheese to be perfectly melted and inviting!
Step 6: Broil for a Golden Finish
For that exquisite golden top, broil on high for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is beautifully browned. Garnish with the reserved green onions and serve immediately with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.
Tips for the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Dip
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t rush the simmering of the chicken; ensure it’s fully cooked for the best flavor. Also, be careful not to overcook the cheese when broiling, or it may burn.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dip pairs wonderfully with crispy tortilla chips, crunchy vegetables, or even spread on toasted baguette slices. It’s also delightful served alongside Buffalo Chicken Sliders for a themed meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
What’s needed for Buffalo chicken dip?
You’ll need chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, hot sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, green onions, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese.
How long can Buffalo chicken dip sit out?
Buffalo chicken dip can safely sit out for about 2 hours at room temperature.
How old is Buffalo chicken dip?
Buffalo chicken dip is a popular dish that originated in the 1990s, becoming a staple at parties and tailgates.
What do you do with Buffalo chicken dip?
Buffalo chicken dip is perfect for dipping with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
More Delicious Recipes to Try Next
- Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Buffalo Chicken Sliders
- Hot Sloppy Joe Dip
- Crockpot BBQ Chicken
- Jalapeno Popper Rolls
Conclusion
Now that you have the recipe for this Simple Buffalo Chicken Dip, you can make it for your next gathering or cozy night in. For more inspiration, check out the delightful ideas on Pinterest. Happy cooking!
Simple Buffalo Chicken Dip
Equipment
- large pot
- baking dish (9×13 inch)
- Cooking spray
Ingredients
- 3-4 pieces chicken breasts (shredded or chopped)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1.25 cups ranch dressing
- 1.25 cups hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup green onions (sliced, for garnish)
- 1.75 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1.75 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Boil salted water, add chicken breasts, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until cooked; shred or chop and set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a pot over medium heat, mix cream cheese, ranch dressing, hot sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
- Combine the chicken with the sauce, 1 cup each of mozzarella and cheddar, and most green onions; mix and transfer to the baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheeses and bake for 20-30 minutes until bubbly.
- Broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is golden brown, garnish with green onions, and serve with chips or veggies.