Name: Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese; ½ cup sour cream; ranch mix; 1 cup chicken; 2 cups Cheddar Cheese; ½ cup buffalo sauce

Get ready for a crowd-pleasing appetizer with this easy buffalo chicken dip recipe. Perfect for game days, parties, or any casual gathering, this dip combines the tangy heat of buffalo sauce with creamy, cheesy goodness.

Photos of Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

For this recipe, you may need to pick up ranch mix and buffalo sauce if they aren't staples in your pantry. These ingredients provide the unique flavor profile that makes this dip irresistible, so be sure to add them to your shopping list.

Ingredients for Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

cream cheese: A smooth, soft cheese that adds a creamy texture to the dip.

sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess to the mixture.

ranch mix: A seasoning blend used to give the dip a tangy, herby flavor.

chicken: Provides the protein and main substance for the dip, usually cooked and shredded.

cheddar cheese: A sharp, flavorful cheese that melts beautifully into the dip.

buffalo sauce: A spicy, tangy sauce that gives the dip its signature kick.

One reader, Eliot Stephan says:

This easy buffalo chicken dip recipe is a game-changer! The creamy texture and perfect blend of flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. It’s quick to prepare and absolutely delicious. Perfect for game days or parties!

Eliot Stephan

Techniques Required for Making Buffalo Chicken Dip

How to preheat the oven: Set the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to reach the desired temperature before placing the dish inside. How to combine ingredients with a mixer: Use an electric mixer to blend the cream cheese, sour cream, ranch mix, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese until smooth and well combined. How to spread mixture in a baking dish: Use a spatula to evenly spread the combined mixture onto the bottom of a 1½-quart baking dish. How to bake until hot and bubbly: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the dip is hot and bubbly on the surface.

How To Make Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip

Whip up some cheesy and deliciously flavored buffalo chicken dip for your next party! Bake a batch of these in just under an hour for a delectable dip.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8ozcream cheese,softened
½cupsour cream
ranch mix,1 packet
1cupchicken,cooked, chopped
2cupscheddar cheese,or Monterey jack, divided
½cupbuffalo sauce

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Combine the cream cheese, sour cream, ranch mix and 1 cup of the cheddar cheese with a mixer.
Spread the mixture onto the bottom of a 1½-quart baking dish.
Top with the chicken, buffalo sauce, and the remaining cheese.
Bake for 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Serve with chips, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 327.80kcal
Fat: 28.59g
Saturated Fat: 15.23g
Trans Fat: 0.41g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.92g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.67g
Carbohydrates: 2.01g
Sugar: 1.42g
Protein: 15.80g
Cholesterol: 95.33mg
Sodium: 344.32mg
Calcium: 269.82mg
Potassium: 160.91mg
Iron: 0.71mg
Vitamin A: 223.02µg
Vitamin C: 0.41mg

Technique Tip for Making Buffalo Chicken Dip

For a smoother and creamier dip, make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing it with the sour cream and ranch mix. This ensures that all the ingredients blend together seamlessly, creating a uniform and delicious base for your buffalo chicken dip.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Buffalo Chicken Dip

Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding your own.

Soften cream cheese: Leave the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 minutes to make it easier to mix.

Pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to cut down on prep time.

Mix by hand: If you don't have a mixer, you can mix the cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch mix by hand to save on cleanup time.

Microwave option: If you're in a hurry, you can microwave the dip instead of baking it. Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor while being lower in fat.
sour cream - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt offers a similar consistency and tanginess, making it a good alternative.
ranch mix - Substitute with Italian dressing mix: Italian dressing mix can provide a similar herbaceous flavor profile.
chicken - Substitute with turkey: Turkey has a similar texture and flavor, making it a suitable replacement.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack cheese melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the dish.
buffalo sauce - Substitute with sriracha sauce: Sriracha sauce can provide a similar level of heat and tanginess, though it has a slightly different flavor profile.

Best Way to Present Buffalo Chicken Dip

Use a stylish serving dish: Choose a sleek, modern baking dish to bake the buffalo chicken dip in. Opt for a white or black dish to create a striking contrast with the vibrant colors of the dip.
Create layers: When spreading the cream cheese mixture onto the bottom of the dish, ensure it is smooth and even. This will provide a clean base for the chicken and buffalo sauce layers.
Top with precision: Arrange the chicken evenly over the cream cheese mixture. Drizzle the buffalo sauce in a controlled manner to create a visually appealing pattern.
Cheese placement: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top. For a professional touch, use a microplane to finely grate some of the cheese, creating a delicate, lacy texture on the surface.
Bake to perfection: Ensure the dip is baked until it is hot and bubbly, with the cheese perfectly melted and slightly golden. This will enhance both the flavor and the visual appeal.
Garnish thoughtfully: Once out of the oven, garnish the dip with finely chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve with elegance: Present the buffalo chicken dip with an assortment of chips, celery sticks, and carrot sticks arranged neatly around the dish. Use small, individual serving bowls for the chips to maintain a clean and organized presentation.
Add a final touch: Place a small bowl of ranch dressing on the side for dipping. This not only complements the flavors but also adds a professional touch to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Buffalo Chicken Dip

Oven: used to bake the dip until it is hot and bubbly.
Mixer: helps to combine the cream cheese, sour cream, ranch mix, and cheddar cheese smoothly.
1½-quart baking dish: serves as the container for spreading the mixture and baking the dip.
Spatula: useful for spreading the mixture evenly in the baking dish.
Measuring cups: ensures accurate measurement of ingredients like sour cream, buffalo sauce, and cheddar cheese.
Mixing bowl: used to mix the cream cheese, sour cream, ranch mix, and cheddar cheese together.
Knife: if the chicken needs to be chopped or shredded before adding to the dip.
Serving dish: for presenting the dip once it’s baked.
Chips: for serving alongside the dip.

How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Dip

To store leftover buffalo chicken dip, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Seal the container tightly and place it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to reheat, you can either microwave the dip in a microwave-safe dish or place the container in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly, stirring occasionally.
If you want to freeze the buffalo chicken dip for later use, transfer the cooled dip to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Cover the container with a tight-fitting lid or plastic wrap, then wrap the entire container in aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn.
Label the container with the date and contents, and place it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw the frozen buffalo chicken dip, transfer the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat the dip in the microwave or oven as described above until it's hot and bubbly.
Keep in mind that the texture of the dip may change slightly after freezing and thawing, as the cream cheese and sour cream can separate. However, stirring the dip well during reheating will help restore its creamy consistency.

How to Reheat Buffalo Chicken Dip Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover buffalo chicken dip in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Give it a good stir before serving to ensure that all the ingredients are well combined.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can reheat the buffalo chicken dip in the microwave. Transfer the dip to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating. Keep an eye on the dip to avoid overheating, which can cause the cheese to separate or become grainy.
For a crispy top layer, reheat the buffalo chicken dip in the oven as mentioned above, but remove the aluminum foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. This will allow the cheese on top to brown and crisp up slightly, adding a nice texture to the dip.
If you find that the dip has thickened up too much during storage, you can add a splash of milk or cream to help loosen it up before reheating. Stir the liquid into the dip until it reaches your desired consistency.
Avoid reheating the buffalo chicken dip more than once, as this can affect the texture and quality of the dip. If you have a large amount of leftover dip, consider reheating smaller portions as needed to maintain the best flavor and consistency.

Random Fact About Buffalo Chicken Dip

A fun fact about this buffalo chicken dip recipe is that it combines the flavors of buffalo wings and cheese dip into one delicious dish, making it a popular choice for game day parties and gatherings.

Is This Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This buffalo chicken dip recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With cream cheese, sour cream, ranch mix, chicken, cheddar cheese, and buffalo sauce as the main ingredients, it offers a flavorful and satisfying dish without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Buffalo Chicken Dip Healthy or Unhealthy?

This buffalo chicken dip recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main culprits are the high-fat ingredients like cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, which are all rich in saturated fats. Additionally, the buffalo sauce likely contains a significant amount of sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues when consumed in excess.

However, there are several ways to make this recipe healthier without sacrificing too much flavor:

Swap the cream cheese for a reduced-fat or fat-free variety, or even replace it with a combination of Greek yogurt and cottage cheese for a protein boost
Use low-fat sour cream or replace it entirely with additional Greek yogurt
Opt for a reduced-fat cheddar cheese or decrease the amount of cheese used overall
Choose a buffalo sauce with lower sodium content or make your own using hot sauce and seasonings
Increase the amount of shredded chicken to boost the protein content and make the dip more filling
Serve the dip with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers instead of chips to increase the nutrient density and reduce the calorie intake from processed carbs

Editor's Thoughts on This Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

This buffalo chicken dip recipe is a crowd-pleaser with its creamy texture and bold flavors. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch mix creates a rich base, while the buffalo sauce adds a spicy kick. The use of cheddar cheese ensures a gooey, melty finish. Baking it until hot and bubbly enhances the flavors and provides a delightful texture. Serving it with chips makes it perfect for gatherings. Overall, it's a simple yet delicious dish that can be easily prepared, making it a great choice for any occasion.

Enhance Your Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Complement the creamy and spicy buffalo chicken dip with a refreshing side of grilled asparagus drizzled with a hint of lemon zest. The citrusy notes will balance the richness of the dip, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers: Add a touch of heat and crunch with bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers. The smoky bacon and spicy jalapeños will elevate the overall experience, making each bite an adventure.

Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli: Pair the dip with crispy sweet potato fries served alongside a zesty spicy aioli. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the tangy and spicy flavors of the dip.

Caprese Salad Skewers: Lighten things up with Caprese salad skewers. Fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze will provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich dip.

Garlic Parmesan Knots: Indulge in some garlic parmesan knots for a savory and aromatic side. The buttery garlic and sharp parmesan flavors will meld perfectly with the creamy and spicy notes of the buffalo chicken dip.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Buffalo Chicken Dip

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Meatballs: These meatballs pack a punch with a spicy buffalo twist. Perfect for game day or any gathering, they are easy to make and even easier to devour. Serve with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers: Transform your bell peppers into a flavorful dish by stuffing them with a savory buffalo chicken mixture. This recipe is a great way to enjoy the classic buffalo chicken flavor in a healthier, veggie-packed form.

Buffalo Chicken Sliders: Mini sandwiches that are big on flavor! These sliders feature shredded buffalo chicken topped with melted cheese and a drizzle of ranch dressing. Perfect for parties or a fun dinner option.

Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas: Crispy tortillas filled with spicy buffalo chicken and gooey cheese. These quesadillas are a quick and delicious way to enjoy the bold flavors of buffalo chicken in a handheld form.

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: Combine the comfort of mac and cheese with the zesty kick of buffalo chicken. This creamy, cheesy dish is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a little spice in their comfort food.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Buffalo Chicken Dip

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with this succulent chicken dish, marinated in a zesty lemon and herb blend. The chicken is grilled to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite every time. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Indulge in a rich and decadent pasta dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a creamy garlic sauce. The pasta is cooked al dente and tossed with the luscious sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley for an elegant touch. Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a decadent treat that combines the richness of dark chocolate with a gooey, molten center. This dessert is perfect for those who crave a luxurious experience. Serve it warm, and pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delightful contrast of temperatures. The chocolate lava cake is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Lemon Meringue Pie: For a refreshing and tangy dessert, consider making a lemon meringue pie. The zesty lemon filling provides a burst of citrus flavor, while the fluffy meringue topping adds a light and airy texture. This pie is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of sweet and tart. Serve it chilled for a cool and satisfying end to any meal.

Why trust this Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe:

This buffalo chicken dip recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining creamy cream cheese and sour cream with the zesty kick of buffalo sauce. The addition of ranch mix and cheddar cheese creates a rich, flavorful base, while the chicken adds a hearty touch. Baked to perfection, it becomes hot and bubbly, making it an irresistible appetizer. Perfect for parties or game days, this easy-to-follow recipe ensures delicious results every time.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you've tried!

FAQ:

How can I make this dip spicier?

If you want to kick up the heat, you can add more buffalo sauce or even mix in some diced jalapeños. Another option is to sprinkle in a bit of cayenne pepper.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for extra flavor.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip up to the baking step and store it in the fridge for a day or two. When you're ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

What kind of chicken should I use?

You can use any cooked chicken you have on hand. Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience, but you can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken. Just make sure it's shredded or chopped into small pieces.

Can I use a different sauce instead of buffalo sauce?

If buffalo sauce isn't your thing, you can substitute it with barbecue sauce, sriracha, or even a spicy salsa. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile of the dip.