Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip

Name: Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love whipping up this Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip when I'm short on time and need a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The combination of shredded chicken, cream cheese, and spicy buffalo sauce creates a creamy, zesty flavor that’s hard to resist. I usually serve it with tortilla chips or veggies, and it disappears in no time. Perfect for game day or a casual gathering, this dip is not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying. Trust me, this will be your go-to dip for any occasion!

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:43:09.044Z

My first encounter with buffalo chicken dip was at a party, and I was instantly hooked. I knew I had to recreate the spicy, creamy goodness at home. After experimenting with different ingredients and ratios, I found the perfect balance of heat and creaminess, thanks to the addition of cream cheese and plenty of cheese on top.

One of my favorite tips is to use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep—just shred it and mix it in! This dip bakes to bubbly perfection in just 20 minutes and can easily be made ahead of time for last-minute gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously creamy with the perfect amount of spice
Easy to make and ready in under 30 minutes
Great for parties, game day, or casual get-togethers

      

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this Buffalo Chicken Dip plays a crucial role in delivering that irresistible flavor and creamy texture. The creamy base provided by the cream cheese ensures a rich mouthfeel, while the buffalo sauce adds the right kick of heat. If you prefer a milder version, you can easily swap the buffalo sauce for a barbecue sauce, although that will change the flavor profile significantly. The ranch dressing not only enhances the dip's creaminess but also balances the spice from the buffalo sauce beautifully.

Using shredded cooked chicken adds texture and heartiness to the dip, making it a satisfying choice for any gathering. This dip works particularly well with rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut, as it's already seasoned and cooked. If you want to prepare it in advance, you can store shredded chicken in the refrigerator for a few days. Just be sure to mix it with other ingredients right before baking for the best results!

Baking Technique

Baking at the right temperature is essential for achieving that golden, bubbly top on your dip. Setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) allows the dip to heat through evenly, ensuring that the cheese melts perfectly without burning. Keep an eye on the cheese during the last few minutes; it should be bubbly and lightly golden. If the dip looks ready but the cheese isn't browned enough, you can broil it for a minute or two—just watch it closely to prevent burning.

For an even more indulgent experience, consider adding a sprinkle of additional cheddar cheese or even some blue cheese crumbles on top before you bake. This gives a nice flavor contrast and enhances the dip’s creaminess. If you're serving this for a larger crowd, you can easily double this recipe, using a larger baking dish while extending the baking time slightly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious buffalo chicken dip:

Ingredients

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your buffalo chicken dip:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing until well mixed.

Add Cheese

Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until evenly distributed.

Transfer and Top

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and top with chopped green onions if desired. Serve with tortilla chips or veggies.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding diced jalapeños or using a hotter buffalo sauce. This dip can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. While tortilla chips are a classic pairing, consider offering a variety of dippers such as sliced cucumbers, carrot sticks, or celery to appeal to a broader range of tastes. If you have some sourdough bread or french baguette, toasting slices and using those for dipping could elevate the presentation and flavor of your dish.

If you're planning to make this dip ahead of time, it stores well in the refrigerator for about three days. You can prepare the mixture a day in advance, cover it tightly, and bake it right before your guests arrive. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before baking to ensure even heating.

Make-Ahead Tips

For those busy days, consider preparing the Buffalo Chicken Dip in advance to save time. You can assemble the dip and store it in the baking dish, covered with plastic wrap, for up to two days in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, just pop it into the oven straight from the fridge—adding about 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time to account for the chill.

Also, if you find yourself with leftovers, don't fret! This dip reheats beautifully in the microwave or back in the oven. Just make sure to cover it, and heat it at low power in the microwave to avoid drying it out. In the oven, cover with foil to maintain moisture and heat at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through—about 15–20 minutes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?

Yes, canned chicken works well for this recipe and can save time!

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this dip?

You can substitute shredded chicken with shredded jackfruit for a vegetarian version!

→ Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.