Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip

Name: Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional); 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love serving this Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip at gatherings! It's a crowd-pleaser with its spicy kick and creamy texture. Each time I make it, folks rave about its rich flavor, and I can't get enough of the melty cheese that brings it all together. This dip is not just simple to prepare, but it also brings a unique twist to the classic buffalo chicken taste that everyone adores. Plus, it's best enjoyed straight from the oven for that gooey goodness.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:46:12.164Z

When I first made Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip, I was blown away by how quickly it disappeared at a party! The combination of tender chicken, a zesty buffalo sauce, and creamy cheese created a flavor explosion that impressed even the toughest food critics among my friends. I realized the key is mixing in cream cheese and sharp cheddar; they melt beautifully and hold the dip together.

One time, I experimented by adding blue cheese crumbles on top before baking, and it elevated the dish to another level. The blend of spicy and tangy flavors paired perfectly, and everyone was asking for the recipe! Don’t skip that little touch of extra cheese on top for the ultimate dip!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy buffalo flavor that satisfies any craving
Rich and creamy texture that’s perfect for dipping
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings

      

Creamy Texture and Flavor Balance

The secret to achieving that perfect creamy texture lies in using softened cream cheese. This allows the cheese to blend seamlessly with the buffalo sauce and other ingredients, creating a smooth mixture without any lumps. If you're short on time, you can microwave the cream cheese for about 15-20 seconds to soften it quickly. The right blending ensures that every bite is rich and cohesive, allowing the bold flavors to shine through.

Balancing the spiciness of buffalo sauce with creamy ranch dressing creates a harmonious flavor profile. If you're looking to reduce the heat, consider starting with a milder buffalo sauce or mixing in a touch of sour cream. The creamy elements work to temper the spice, making it suitable for a wider range of palates, which is perfect for gatherings where everyone has different preferences.

Baking Tips and Visual Cues

When transferring the dip to your baking dish, spreading it evenly helps ensure consistent heating. This way, every edge reaches that coveted golden-brown color. For optimal results, choose a shallow dish; this increases the surface area and allows for browning. Keep an eye on the dip during the last few minutes of baking, as you want it to be bubbling around the edges and slightly browned on top before removing it from the oven.

After baking, allowing the dip to cool for a few minutes not only makes it easier to serve but also helps it set a bit, making it less runny. You can serve it with an array of dippers such as crispy tortilla chips, fresh veggies like celery sticks or carrot sticks, or even slices of toasted baguette, which adds a wonderful crunch and pairs beautifully with the creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dip:

Ingredients

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Make sure to have some tortilla chips or celery sticks on hand for dipping!

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up your Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, half of the cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well combined.

Transfer to a baking dish

Spread the mixture evenly in a baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese and blue cheese crumbles if using.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving with tortilla chips or celery sticks.

Enjoy your delightful dip hot from the oven!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, let the dip sit for about 10 minutes after baking, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for busy days. Prepare the dip mixture and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to serve, simply spread it into a baking dish and pop it into the preheated oven. Just be aware that you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.

Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, microwave it in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between, or place it back in a 350°F oven until warmed through. This versatility ensures you can enjoy this delicious dip even after your gathering.

Variations and Dietary Adjustments

Feel free to customize this dip according to your dietary needs. For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the cream cheese, which still provides a creamy texture while reducing calories. If you're looking for a vegetarian-friendly alternative, try using shredded jackfruit or canned chickpeas mixed with buffalo sauce instead of chicken to create a similar flavor profile.

Consider adding extras like diced jalapeños or green onions for an added punch. You could also experiment with different cheeses; pepper jack offers a spicy kick, while Monterey Jack provides a milder alternative. These variations can elevate the dip and make it more exciting for repeat enjoyment.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save you time and add even more flavor.

→ How can I make it spicier?

You can add more buffalo sauce according to your taste or include diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

→ Can this dip be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dip a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dip?

Tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, or sliced baguette all make great dippers!