Buffalo Chicken Dip

The first time I brought this dip to a Super Bowl party, my friend Mark actually hovered over the baking dish until it came out of the oven. He kept asking if it was done yet, and when I finally pulled it out, that golden bubbly cheese had everyone gathering around the counter before I could even set it down.

Last winter my sister was hosting a last minute get together and texted me in a panic about what to serve. I walked her through this recipe over the phone, and she called me two hours later laughing because she had to make a second batch—it vanished before halftime.

Ingredients

• Cooked shredded chicken breast: Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here and saves so much time, or use leftover cooked chicken breasts
• Cream cheese softened: Room temperature cream cheese blends seamlessly into the sauce without leaving lumps
• Hot sauce: Franks RedHot is the classic choice, but any vinegar based hot sauce will give you that authentic Buffalo flavor
• Ranch dressing: This tames the heat and adds creaminess that balances the tangy hot sauce
• Blue cheese dressing: Use all ranch if you are not a blue cheese fan, but this adds authentic Buffalo wing depth
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor contrast against the creamy base
• Crumbled blue cheese: Optional but those salty blue cheese crumbles create little pockets of intense flavor
• Mozzarella cheese: This forms that gorgeous golden crust that makes the dip irresistible
• Chives or green onions: Fresh onion brightness cuts through all the rich cheese

Instructions

Preheat and prep:

Get your oven to 180°C (350°F) while you gather everything, and have your baking dish ready

Mix the creamy base:

Beat together the softened cream cheese, hot sauce, and both dressings until completely smooth

Add the chicken and cheese:

Gently fold in the shredded chicken, cheddar, and blue cheese crumbles until everything is coated

Transfer to baking dish:

Spread the mixture evenly into a 1.5 to 2 liter baking dish

Top with mozzarella:

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella across the entire surface for that golden cheesy crust

Bake until bubbly:

Let it bake for 20 to 25 minutes until hot throughout and the top is lightly golden

Let it rest:

Give it five minutes to cool slightly so the dip sets up a bit

Garnish and serve:

Scatter fresh chives on top and serve warm with your favorite dippers

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My dad usually claims he does not like spicy food, but he ate this with a spoon straight from the baking dish at our family reunion last summer. Now he asks for it every time we get together, calling it his special dip even though he knows exactly how easy it is.

Make Ahead Magic

You can assemble everything up to two days before baking, which has saved me so many times when hosting. Just cover the dish tightly and keep it in the refrigerator, then bake it right before guests arrive.

Serving Suggestions

Celery sticks are the classic pairing and their cool crunch balances the heat perfectly. I have also served this with tortilla chips, sliced baguette, pita bread, and even carrot sticks for a lighter option.

Customization Ideas

Adjust the heat level by adding cayenne pepper or swapping in a hotter sauce if you love spice. Sometimes I add extra blue cheese instead of cheddar for a more intense flavor profile.

• Try adding crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky twist
• Stir in some diced green chilies for extra depth
• Serve with extra hot sauce on the side for heat lovers

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There is something magical about gathering around a bubbling hot dip with friends, watching the steam rise as everyone reaches in with chips and crackers. Simple food shared with good people is what cooking is really about.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the mixture up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best results.

→ What can I serve with this dip?

Celery sticks, tortilla chips, sliced baguette, crackers, or carrot sticks all work perfectly for scooping.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Absolutely. Add cayenne pepper for extra heat or use a milder hot sauce. You can also reduce the hot sauce amount slightly.

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just shred about 2 cups worth of meat.

→ Can I make this without blue cheese?

Definitely. Use all ranch dressing instead of blue cheese dressing, and replace the crumbled blue cheese with extra cheddar.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.