Introduction
Buffalo chicken dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for game days, potlucks, and family gatherings. This creamy, cheesy, and spicy dip brings all the flavors of classic Buffalo wings into an easy-to-make dish. Whether you serve it with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the best Buffalo chicken dip—from ingredients and preparation methods to serving suggestions and storage tips. We’ll also cover some FAQs to help you perfect your dip every time.
👉 Looking for more chicken-based recipes? Check out our Chicken and Waffle Sandwich Recipe for another delicious meal idea!
What Is Buffalo Chicken Dip?
History & Popularity of Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo chicken dip is inspired by Buffalo wings, which originated in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s. The dip version became popular because it offers the same spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors without the mess of eating wings. It quickly became a party staple and is now a must-have for game days, tailgates, and gatherings.
Why This Recipe Is a Game-Day Favorite
Easy to Make: Requires minimal ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes.
Versatile: Can be baked in the oven, cooked in a slow cooker, or made on the stovetop.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both spice lovers and cheese enthusiasts.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level and add mix-ins like bacon, ranch, or blue cheese.
👉 Love chicken recipes? Check out our Blackstone Chicken Recipes for more delicious ideas!
Buffalo Chicken Dip Ingredients & Substitutes
A great Buffalo chicken dip starts with the right ingredients. Below, we’ll cover the classic ingredients, healthy alternatives, and substitutes for common dietary preferences.
What Ingredients Are in Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Buffalo chicken dip is made with a creamy base, shredded chicken, Buffalo sauce, cheese, and seasoning. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:
| Ingredient | Purpose in Dip | Substitutes |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded Chicken | The main protein source, adds texture and flavor | Rotisserie chicken, canned chicken, or cooked shredded turkey |
| Cream Cheese | Adds creaminess and balances the spice | Greek yogurt, sour cream, or dairy-free cream cheese |
| Buffalo Sauce | Provides the signature spicy and tangy flavor | Homemade Buffalo sauce (recipe below) or mild hot sauce |
| Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing | Enhances creaminess and adds tanginess | Greek yogurt with seasonings or dairy-free ranch |
| Cheese (Cheddar, Mozzarella, or Monterey Jack) | Melts beautifully and makes the dip extra cheesy | Dairy-free cheese or a blend of different cheeses for extra flavor |
| Garlic Powder & Onion Powder | Adds depth of flavor | Fresh minced garlic or shallots |
| Green Onions or Chives (optional) | Adds freshness and mild crunch | Cilantro or parsley |
Best Substitutions for a Healthier Version
If you want a lighter or diet-friendly Buffalo chicken dip, try these ingredient swaps:
✔ Low-Calorie Option: Use low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt instead of full-fat versions.
✔ Dairy-Free Version: Replace cheese and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives like cashew-based cheese or coconut yogurt.
✔ Keto & Low-Carb: Skip ranch dressing and use full-fat cream cheese and extra cheddar. Serve with low-carb veggies instead of chips.
✔ Vegan Option: Use shredded jackfruit or chickpeas instead of chicken, and vegan cheese alternatives.
👉 Want more delicious chicken recipes? Check out our Baked Chicken Cutlets Recipe for a crispy and flavorful dish!
Step-by-Step Guide – How to Make Buffalo Chicken Dip
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s dive into the best methods for making Buffalo chicken dip. Whether you prefer the oven, slow cooker, or stovetop, we’ve got you covered!
Classic Oven-Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip
This is the most traditional and foolproof method for making creamy and cheesy Buffalo chicken dip.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup Buffalo sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended)
- ½ cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, Buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and garlic/onion powder. Mix well.
- Stir in ½ cup of cheddar cheese and ¼ cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese and ¼ cup mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with green onions and serve hot with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers.
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip
This method is perfect for parties and gatherings, as the dip stays warm and creamy for hours!
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients into a slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours or HIGH for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Once melted and combined, stir well and keep on WARM setting for serving.
👉 Try this slow-cooked dip with Smoked Chicken Drumsticks for an extra smoky kick!
Stovetop Buffalo Chicken Dip
Need a quick version? The stovetop method takes just 10 minutes!
Instructions:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the cream cheese with Buffalo sauce and ranch dressing.
- Stir in shredded chicken, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Once smooth, add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted.
- Serve immediately, garnished with green onions.
🔥 Pro Tip: Add extra Buffalo sauce for more spice or a splash of milk if the dip is too thick!
How to Make Buffalo Sauce for the Dip
Buffalo sauce is the heart of Buffalo chicken dip, giving it that signature tangy, spicy, and buttery flavor. While you can use store-bought Buffalo sauce (like Frank’s RedHot), making your own is easy and allows you to control the heat level.
What Is Buffalo Dipping Sauce Made Of?
Buffalo sauce is a simple mix of hot sauce, butter, vinegar, and seasonings. Here’s what you’ll need:
Homemade Buffalo Sauce Ingredients:
- ½ cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or your favorite brand)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar (adds tanginess)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (adds smokiness)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (balances the heat)
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine hot sauce, melted butter, and vinegar.
- Add garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and honey/sugar.
- Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes, until well blended and smooth.
- Remove from heat and let it cool before using in your dip.
🔥 Pro Tip: Adjust the heat level by adding more cayenne for spice or more butter for a milder flavor.
Buffalo Sauce Variations
🔹 Mild Version: Use less hot sauce and add extra butter.
🔹 Extra Spicy: Increase cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes.
🔹 Garlic-Lover’s Buffalo Sauce: Add 1 minced garlic clove instead of garlic powder.
👉 Want more chicken-based meal ideas? Check out our Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe for another spicy, cheesy dish!
How to Get the Perfect Creamy & Thick Texture
A great Buffalo chicken dip should be thick, creamy, and scoopable—not runny or greasy. Here’s how to achieve the perfect consistency every time.
What Can I Use to Thicken My Buffalo Chicken Dip?
If your dip turns out too thin or watery, try these fixes:
1. Add More Cheese 🧀
- Cheese naturally thickens the dip as it melts.
- Stir in extra shredded cheddar or mozzarella before baking.
- Avoid pre-shredded cheese—it contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
2. Use Less Liquid 💧
- If your dip is too runny, reduce the Buffalo sauce or dressing slightly.
- Stick to full-fat cream cheese and avoid using too much ranch dressing.
3. Bake It a Little Longer ⏳
- Baking for an extra 5-10 minutes helps evaporate excess moisture.
- Make sure the top is golden and bubbling before removing from the oven.
4. Add a Thickening Agent 🌟
- Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water, stir it in, and heat the dip until it thickens.
- Xanthan Gum (for Keto): A pinch of xanthan gum helps without adding carbs.
🔥 Pro Tip: If your dip becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up while stirring.
How to Prevent a Greasy or Separated Dip
A greasy dip is often caused by overheating cheese or using too much butter. Here’s how to prevent it:
✔ Use room-temperature cream cheese – This helps it blend smoothly.
✔ Stir the dip well before baking – Ensures even distribution of ingredients.
✔ Don’t overheat in the slow cooker – Keep it on LOW or WARM to avoid separating.
👉 Want to try a crispy, cheesy dish? Check out our Baked Chicken Cutlets Recipe for another delicious chicken-based meal!
Best Dippers & Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo chicken dip is incredibly versatile—it pairs well with a variety of dippers and side dishes. Whether you’re serving it at a party, game night, or casual gathering, here are the best options to complement its creamy, spicy flavor.
What to Make with Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Best Dippers for Scooping 🥄
Pair your dip with a mix of crispy, crunchy, and fresh options to balance the flavors:
| Type | Best Options |
|---|---|
| Chips & Crackers | Tortilla chips, pita chips, pretzels, Ritz crackers |
| Veggies | Celery sticks, carrot sticks, bell pepper slices, cucumber rounds |
| Bread | Toasted baguette slices, crostini, garlic bread |
| Other Dippers | Pork rinds (for keto), soft pretzel bites, naan bread |
🔥 Pro Tip: Want an extra kick? Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese or extra hot sauce on top before serving!
👉 Love unique chicken dishes? Check out our Chicken Salad Chick Recipe for another delicious twist!
Storing, Reheating & Freezing Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo chicken dip is just as delicious the next day—if stored and reheated correctly! Whether you want to save leftovers or make it ahead of time, here’s how to store, reheat, and freeze it for the best results.
How to Store Leftover Buffalo Chicken Dip
If you have leftovers, follow these steps to keep them fresh and safe to eat:
✅ Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
✅ Avoid Leaving Out: Don’t let it sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours—it can spoil quickly.
🔥 Pro Tip: Want to prep ahead? Assemble the dip and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 2 days. Bake when ready to serve!
Best Ways to Reheat Buffalo Chicken Dip
Oven (Best for Large Portions)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place dip in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until warm and bubbly.
Microwave (Quickest Method)
- Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Slow Cooker (For Parties)
- Place the dip in a slow cooker and set it to LOW.
- Stir occasionally and keep it warm while serving.
🔥 Pro Tip: If the dip is too thick after reheating, stir in a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Can You Freeze Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Yes! Freezing is a great option if you want to make a batch ahead of time.
How to Freeze It Properly
- Let the dip cool completely before freezing.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat Frozen Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Thaw Overnight: Move it to the fridge the night before.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 60-second intervals, stirring often.
🔥 Pro Tip: Avoid freezing dip made with sour cream or mayonnaise—these ingredients can separate when thawed.
👉 Want more chicken-based appetizers? Check out our Smoked Chicken Drumsticks for another crowd-pleasing recipe!
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Even the best cooks can run into issues when making Buffalo chicken dip. If your dip turns out too greasy, too thin, or too spicy, don’t worry—I’ve got quick fixes to save it!
1. My Buffalo Chicken Dip Is Too Greasy
Why It Happens:
- Too much cheese or butter can cause oil separation.
- Overheating in the oven or slow cooker can make it oily.
How to Fix It:
Stir well before serving to reincorporate the oils.
Blot the excess grease with a paper towel before serving.
Use full-fat cream cheese instead of butter-heavy alternatives.
Avoid overcooking—bake just until the cheese is melted.
2. My Buffalo Chicken Dip Is Too Thin or Water
Why It Happens:
- Too much liquid from Buffalo sauce, ranch, or sour cream.
- Using pre-cooked chicken with excess moisture (like canned chicken).
How to Fix It:
Stir in more shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella).
Bake longer to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
Add 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water, then stir and reheat.
Use drained, shredded chicken to prevent extra liquid.
3. My Buffalo Chicken Dip Is Too Thick
Why It Happens:
- Too much cheese or cream cheese without enough liquid.
How to Fix It:
✅ Stir in a splash of milk or extra ranch dressing.
✅ Warm it gently and stir until creamy.
🔥 Pro Tip: Add a little extra Buffalo sauce to restore spice and moisture.
4. My Buffalo Chicken Dip Is Too Spicy
Why It Happens:
- Using too much Buffalo sauce or cayenne pepper.
How to Fix It:
Add more cream cheese or sour cream to balance the heat.
Mix in a little honey or brown sugar to mellow out the spice.
Serve with mild dippers like crackers or bread.
5. My Buffalo Chicken Dip Separated After Reheatin
Why It Happens:
- Overheating in the microwave or slow cooker can break the cheese sauce.
How to Fix It:
✅ Stir in a spoonful of milk or ranch dressing and mix well.
✅ Heat slowly on LOW and stir frequently to keep it creamy.
🔥 Final Pro Tip: Want the best Buffalo chicken ? Use freshly shredded cheese, don’t overheat, and balance the spice!
👉 Love cheesy dips? Check out our Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Recipe for another cheesy, savory dish!
Buffalo Chicken Dip FAQ – Answering Your Top Questions
Before we wrap up, let’s answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Buffalo chicken dip.
Buffalo chicken dip is made with:
Shredded chicken (rotisserie, canned, or fresh)
Cream cheese (for a creamy texture)
Buffalo sauce (adds spice and tang)
Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for extra flavor)
Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
Buffalo chicken is typically made with:
Chicken (breasts, thighs, or wings)
Buffalo sauce (a mix of hot sauce, butter, and seasonings)
Seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne
It’s often served as wings, sandwiches, or dip!
Buffalo sauce is a spicy, buttery hot sauce made from:
Hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended)
Melted butter
Vinegar (adds tanginess)
Garlic powder & paprika (for depth of flavor)
Buffalo chicken dip is super versatile! You can:
Stuff it in tacos, wraps, or sandwiches
Spoon it over baked potatoes or nachos
Serve it as a topping for loaded fries
Use it as a pizza topping for a spicy twist
If your dip is too thin, try:
Adding more shredded cheese
Using less Buffalo sauce or dressing
Baking it 5-10 minutes longer
Mixing in a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry
To make homemade Buffalo sauce, mix:
½ cup hot sauce
¼ cup melted butter
1 tbsp white vinegar
½ tsp garlic powder & paprika
Pinch of cayenne (optional for extra heat)
Conclusion & Final Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo chicken dip is the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer—it’s creamy, cheesy, spicy, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you bake it in the oven, use a slow cooker, or heat it on the stovetop, following these key tips will guarantee the best results:
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients – Shred your own cheese for better melting.
Balance the flavors – Adjust the spice level to your preference.
Keep it creamy – Avoid overheating to prevent separation.
Serve with a variety of dippers – Chips, veggies, and bread all work great.
Store and reheat properly – Keep leftovers fresh and delicious.
🔥 Final Pro Tip: Want to take it up a notch? Top your dip with crispy bacon, extra cheese, or fresh chives before serving!