The Best Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe: A Party Favorite

Introduction

Looking for the ultimate party appetizer? The best dip recipe on the planet is hiding in plain sight—right on the back of a bottle! Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip is the perfect combination of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors that will make you the most appreciated guest at any gathering. This simple yet mouthwatering dip requires only a few ingredients and is incredibly easy to prepare.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the best Buffalo chicken dip, including variations, serving suggestions, and expert tips to take it to the next level. We’ll also provide healthier alternatives, creative mix-ins, and additional ways to enjoy this dip beyond the classic presentation.

What Is Buffalo Chicken Dip?

Buffalo Chicken Dip falls into the “hot and cheesy chicken dips” category, alongside ranch chicken dip and chicken taco dip. It’s a baked dish made with shredded cooked chicken, cream cheese, Frank’s RedHot Sauce, ranch dressing, and blue cheese. After mixing, it’s baked until hot and bubbling, resulting in a creamy, tangy, and spicy dip perfect for any occasion.

One of the reasons Buffalo Chicken Dip is such a crowd-pleaser is its versatility. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, use it as a spread, or even incorporate it into other recipes. The spicy kick from the hot sauce combined with the cooling elements of ranch and blue cheese creates a balanced flavor profile that keeps people coming back for more.

Ingredients for Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip

This recipe, adapted from Frank’s RedHot, includes the following ingredients:

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese, divided
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1/4 cup sliced scallions
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for added flavor
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a deeper taste

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Dip

Follow these easy steps to make a crowd-pleasing Buffalo chicken dip:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, hot sauce, ranch dressing, and 1/2 cup blue cheese. Stir in the shredded chicken.
3. Bake the dip: Transfer the mixture to a 1-quart baking dish and bake for 20 minutes or until heated through.
4. Garnish and serve: Stir the dip, then sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of blue cheese and sliced scallions on top before serving.
5. Optional broil: For a golden-brown top, place the dip under the broiler for 2-3 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Dip

There’s no wrong way to serve this delicious dip! Here are some ideas:

• Classic choices: Serve with crackers, tortilla chips, or cut veggies like celery and carrot sticks.
• Bread options: Try toasted baguette slices, pretzels, or pita chips.
• Creative variations: Spread it inside a sandwich, use it as a topping for baked potatoes, or serve it over nachos for an extra indulgent treat.
• Buffalo chicken wraps: Spread the dip inside a tortilla, roll it up, and slice it into pinwheels.
• Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers: Fill halved mini bell peppers with the dip for a low-carb alternative.
• Use as a pizza topping: Spread a thin layer over pizza dough, top with extra cheese, and bake.

Tips for Making the Best Buffalo Chicken Dip

Take your Buffalo chicken dip to the next level with these expert tips:

• Use rotisserie chicken: For convenience, opt for a store-bought rotisserie chicken and shred it.
• Adjust the heat level: Add more hot sauce for extra spice, or reduce it for a milder dip.
• Try different cheeses: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, swap it out for shredded cheddar or mozzarella.
• Customize with mix-ins: Enhance the dip with diced jalapeños, minced garlic, or caramelized onions.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the dip in advance and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it until hot and bubbly.
• Add crunch: Top the dip with crushed tortilla chips or crispy bacon before serving.

Healthier Buffalo Chicken Dip Modifications

Want to enjoy this dip without overindulging? Try these lighter alternatives:

• Use Greek yogurt: Swap out half of the cream cheese for plain Greek yogurt to increase protein and reduce fat.
• Reduce the ranch dressing: Cut back on the ranch dressing or replace it with a homemade yogurt-based dressing.
• Increase the veggies: Serve with more vegetables like cucumber slices, bell peppers, or zucchini chips instead of crackers.
• Use lean chicken: Opt for skinless, boneless chicken breast instead of dark meat for a leaner protein source.
• Swap the cheese: Reduce the amount of blue cheese or use a lighter variety such as feta.

Additional Variations and Flavor Enhancements

If you want to experiment, consider these creative twists on the classic Buffalo chicken dip:

• BBQ Buffalo Dip: Substitute half of the hot sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
• Ranch-Free Dip: Swap out ranch dressing for sour cream or plain Greek yogurt to reduce saltiness.
• Extra cheesy: Stir in a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for an ultra-cheesy version.
• Bacon Buffalo Dip: Add crispy bacon bits for extra smoky, salty goodness.
• Spicy upgrade: Include a finely chopped habanero or serrano pepper for those who love extra heat.
• Tex-Mex Twist: Add a teaspoon of taco seasoning and mix in some black beans and corn for a southwestern spin on the dip.
• Garlic-Lover’s Buffalo Dip: Stir in roasted garlic or a teaspoon of garlic powder for an even richer, more aromatic flavor.
• Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers: Instead of serving as a dip, stuff halved jalapeños with the Buffalo chicken mixture and bake them until golden.
• Spinach and Artichoke Buffalo Dip: Combine classic spinach and artichoke dip ingredients with the Buffalo chicken dip for a creamy, spicy, and veggie-packed version.
• Buffalo Chicken Sliders: Use the dip as a filling for mini slider buns and top with coleslaw for a fun, hand-held appetizer.

Final Thoughts

Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip is a must-have recipe for any party, game day, or gathering. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and sure to be a hit with guests. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it to your taste, this dip will quickly become a staple in your appetizer lineup.

This dip’s versatility allows for countless serving options, from classic chips and veggies to creative wraps, stuffed peppers, and even pizza toppings. With simple ingredient swaps, you can make a healthier version or create bold, unique flavors to impress any crowd.

Try it at your next event and watch it disappear in minutes! Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you’ve added to the recipe.

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