Save The oven timer was beeping, the living room was filling up fast, and I was frantically double-checking that I hadn't forgotten the tortilla chips. My neighbor had texted me an hour earlier asking what I was bringing to her last-minute watch party, and I'd promised something crowd-pleasing. I threw together this buffalo chicken dip using leftover rotisserie chicken from dinner the night before, crossed my fingers, and slid it into the oven. Twenty-five minutes later, people were scraping the dish clean with celery sticks and asking for the recipe.
I've made this dip for birthday parties, playoff games, and even a book club meeting where we were supposed to bring something light. It's never light once people start eating it. One time, my friend Eddie stood by the oven waiting for it to finish baking, declaring he wasn't moving until the cheese was bubbly. He wasn't kidding.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast, shredded: Rotisserie chicken is your best friend here, saving time and adding extra flavor from the seasoned skin.
- Cream cheese, softened: Let it sit on the counter for at least 30 minutes so it blends smoothly without lumps.
- Ranch dressing: This adds tang and creaminess, balancing the heat from the buffalo sauce perfectly.
- Blue cheese dressing: Optional but highly recommended if you love that sharp, funky bite that cuts through the richness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar for deeper flavor, and save half to sprinkle on top for that golden, bubbly finish.
- Crumbled blue cheese: A little goes a long way, adding pockets of bold flavor throughout the dip.
- Buffalo hot sauce: Franks RedHot is the classic choice, but any vinegar-based buffalo sauce works beautifully.
- Chopped green onions: Fresh, bright, and just enough bite to garnish and add a pop of color at the end.
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and let it warm up while you gather your ingredients. Softened cream cheese is key, so if you forgot to take it out earlier, microwave it in short bursts.
- Mix the Creamy Base:
- In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, and buffalo sauce, stirring until everything is smooth and unified. A hand mixer makes this effortless, but a sturdy spatula works just fine.
- Fold in the Chicken and Cheese:
- Stir in the shredded chicken, half the cheddar, and half the blue cheese if you're using it. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated so every bite has that creamy, spicy goodness.
- Spread into the Dish:
- Transfer the mixture into a 1-liter baking dish, smoothing the top with a spoon or spatula. An even layer ensures it bakes uniformly and gets bubbly all over.
- Top with More Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and blue cheese across the top. This creates a gorgeous golden crust that everyone fights over.
- Bake Until Bubbly:
- Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and the top is lightly browned. Your kitchen will smell incredible.
- Cool and Garnish:
- Let the dip rest for about 5 minutes after baking so it thickens slightly and doesn't burn anyone's mouth. Scatter chopped green onions over the top for freshness and color.
- Serve Hot:
- Bring it to the table with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or carrot sticks. Watch it disappear faster than you thought possible.
Save There was a Sunday afternoon when my brother brought over a bunch of friends unannounced, and I had about fifteen minutes to pull something together. I made this dip, served it straight from the oven, and suddenly I was the hero of the afternoon. It's been my go-to ever since whenever I need to feed a crowd without the stress.
Make It Your Own
If blue cheese isn't your thing, swap it out entirely for ranch or add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. I've also stirred in a pinch of cayenne pepper when I wanted more heat, and it elevated the whole dish without overpowering the other flavors. Some people like adding a handful of crispy bacon on top right before serving, which is never a bad idea.
Serving Suggestions
This dip shines with sturdy tortilla chips that can handle the weight and heat, but celery and carrot sticks add a refreshing crunch that balances the richness. I've also served it with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, and even pretzel bites. One friend swears by scooping it onto butter crackers, and honestly, she's onto something.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, though in my experience, there are rarely any leftovers. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 45 seconds, or warm the whole dish in a low oven until it's hot and creamy again. You can also freeze it before baking, then thaw and bake when you need a quick appetizer.
- Let the dip cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
- Reheat gently to avoid separating the cheese and making it greasy.
- If freezing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
Save This dip has saved me more times than I can count, turning ordinary gatherings into memorable ones with hardly any work. Make it once, and it'll become your most requested dish.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this buffalo chicken dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate covered, then bake when ready. Add 5-10 minutes to baking time if starting cold.
- → What can I serve with buffalo chicken dip?
Serve with tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, crackers, or crusty bread. Vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, spicy dip.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for this dip?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that saves time. Simply shred about 2 cups of meat and proceed with the instructions.
- → How do I adjust the spice level?
Use less buffalo sauce for milder flavor, or add cayenne pepper and extra hot sauce for more heat. Start conservative and adjust to taste.
- → Can I skip the blue cheese?
Yes, simply use all ranch dressing instead of blue cheese dressing and omit the crumbled blue cheese. The dip will still be delicious and creamy.
- → How long does leftover dip keep?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C or microwave until heated through and bubbly.