Buffalo Chicken Dip for Parties

Name: Buffalo Chicken Dip for Parties
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional); Tortilla chips or bread for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I've always been a fan of buffalo chicken dip, and when hosting parties, it's become my go-to crowd-pleaser. With its creamy, spicy goodness, I can't help but indulge in it myself while keeping the guests coming back for more. The great thing about this dip is how simple it is to whip up! A few ingredients come together to create a flavor explosion that pairs perfectly with tortilla chips or crusty bread. Trust me, once you make this, it will become a staple in your party repertoire.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:25:42.949Z

When I first decided to make buffalo chicken dip for a friend's party, I knew it had to be special. I used rotisserie chicken for convenience and mixed it with cream cheese, hot sauce, and a blend of cheeses. The result was a creamy, spicy dip that amazed everyone—I even had people asking for the recipe!

Since then, I've experimented with various hot sauces and spices to find the perfect balance of heat and flavor. One tip I learned is to let the dip cool slightly before serving; it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making every bite a delight. Just make sure you have enough chips on hand—it'll go fast!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that leaves you wanting more
Perfect level of spice that can be adjusted to your liking
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute parties

      

Perfecting the Creaminess

The key to achieving the rich, creamy texture of Buffalo Chicken Dip lies in the cream cheese. Make sure it's well-softened by taking it out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before you begin. If you're short on time, you can microwave it for 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to melt it. The cream cheese serves as the base that binds all the flavors together, contributing to a pleasing mouthfeel that complements the spices.

For a slightly lighter option, consider substituting half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. This swap can introduce a tangy flavor while still maintaining a creamy texture. Just be aware that using yogurt will make the dip a bit less rich, so adjust the buffalo sauce accordingly if you desire more kick.

Adjustable Spice Level

One of the best features of Buffalo Chicken Dip is its customizable heat level. The type of buffalo hot sauce you choose plays a significant role. Brands vary in heat intensity, with some being vinegary and others bringing more fire. If you're sensitive to spice, start with a milder sauce and taste the mixture before baking. You can add more sauce after the initial bake if necessary, ensuring it suits your palate perfectly.

If you want to try something different, mix in spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a deeper flavor profile. Just a pinch can elevate the heat without overpowering the dish. You could also use a mix of hot and mild sauces for a balanced flavor that pleases varying tastes at your party.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Buffalo chicken dip:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked shredded chicken
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)
Tortilla chips or bread for serving

Make sure to have plenty of crispy tortilla chips or slices of bread ready for dipping!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Buffalo chicken dip:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Prepare for Baking

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Bake the Dip

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve Hot

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Buffalo chicken dip with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For a spicier version, add more buffalo sauce or mix in some diced jalapeños. Don't hesitate to experiment with different cheeses or spices to make it your own!

Make-Ahead Tips

Buffalo Chicken Dip is fantastic for preparing in advance. You can make the mixture a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread it in a baking dish and pop it in the oven. This can save you invaluable time the day of your party, allowing you to focus on other preparations.

To further simplify your efforts, you can also freeze the dip before baking. Just ensure it's in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. This way, you can enjoy your delicious dip with minimal last-minute stress.

Serving Suggestions

While tortilla chips are the classic pairing for Buffalo Chicken Dip, don't hesitate to get creative! Fresh veggie sticks like celery and carrots offer a crunchy, healthy alternative. You can also serve it alongside toasted baguette slices, which add a nice crunch and a sophisticated touch for more upscale gatherings.

For a fun twist, consider making mini sliders using the dip. Simply scoop a generous portion onto a small bun, and add toppings like pickles or jalapeños. These make for tasty, handheld snacks that's sure to impress your guests. Just keep in mind that the dip is meant to be enjoyed hot, so keep it warm when serving to maintain that delightful gooey texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dip and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Buffalo chicken dip?

Pair it with tortilla chips, sliced vegetables, or toasted bread for a delicious appetizer.

→ Can I use canned chicken instead of shredded chicken?

Absolutely! Canned chicken is a convenient option and works well in this recipe.

→ Is it possible to make this dip healthier?

Yes! You can use low-fat cream cheese and a lighter ranch dressing to reduce calories while still enjoying the flavor.