Oven Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy, spicy, and cheesy dip that’s perfect for sharing at any party or casual get-together. Made with shredded chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, melty cream cheese, and a good amount of gooey cheddar, this dip brings all the classic buffalo wing flavors without the mess of bones. It’s baked to bubbly perfection, making it irresistible to buffalo lovers everywhere.
I love making this dip because it’s super easy and always a big hit with friends and family. I usually mix the ingredients in one bowl, pop it in the oven, and then just let the flavors come together while everything warms up. One tip I’ve picked up is to make sure you use a good buffalo sauce that’s not too mild or too hot—there’s a sweet spot that makes the dip just right for everyone.
My favorite way to serve this dip is with crunchy celery sticks and some sturdy tortilla chips for scooping up every last cheesy, spicy bite. It’s the kind of recipe I turn to whenever I want something warm, comforting, and packed with bold flavor that everyone can enjoy without much fuss. Plus, it’s great as a snack during game day or just whenever the craving hits!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that saves time and adds flavor. You can also use leftover cooked chicken or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch.
Cream Cheese: This is the creamy base that makes the dip smooth. Make sure it’s softened to mix easily. For a lighter version, you can try reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt, but the texture will be less rich.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is classic, but any buffalo-style hot sauce works. Adjust the amount depending on how spicy you like it. If you prefer less heat, mix with a bit of honey or use a milder hot sauce.
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Adds cooling creaminess. Ranch is milder; blue cheese brings a tangier bite. Choose whichever you prefer or have on hand.
Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese: Cheddar gives sharpness and color, mozzarella adds gooey meltiness. Cheddar can be swapped for Monterey Jack or Colby. Mozzarella is optional but great if you want extra stretch.
How Do I Get the Dip Hot, Melty, and Not Too Watery?
Heating this dip evenly is important to get a smooth, cheesy texture without separation or watery edges. Follow these tips:
- Use softened cream cheese for smooth mixing. Cold cream cheese won’t blend well.
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until smooth before baking. This helps everything combine evenly.
- Spread the dip evenly in your baking dish, so it cooks at the same rate.
- Bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes—warm and bubbling but not drying out.
- A cheesy top layer helps keep moisture in and adds a nice golden finish.
- Let the dip cool for a few minutes after baking. It’ll thicken as it cools, making dipping easier.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 8-inch baking dish – Perfect size to hold the dip and bake evenly.
- Mixing bowl – Use it to blend the cream cheese, sauces, and chicken easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient amounts.
- Oven – To bake the dip to bubbly perfection.
- Spatula or serving spoon – To mix and serve the dip smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese Options: Mix in pepper jack or Monterey Jack for different cheese flavors.
- Proteins: Use cooked bacon bits or shredded turkey instead of chicken for a new twist.
- Veggies: Stir in chopped bell peppers, jalapeños, or diced celery for added crunch and flavor.
- Spice Level: Add extra hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or chili powders for more heat.
Oven Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- ½ cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and 20-25 minutes baking time. So, in around 35 minutes, your dip will be hot, cheesy, and ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Mix:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch or blue cheese dressing. Mix them together until smooth and well blended.
2. Add Chicken and Cheese:
Stir in the shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese (plus the mozzarella if you’re using it). Mix everything evenly so the flavors blend well.
3. Bake the Dip:
Transfer your mixture to an oven-safe baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top has melted and starts to brown lightly.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and let it cool just a bit. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch if you like. Serve the warm dip with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers, and enjoy every creamy, spicy bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw and drain the chicken before shredding it. Using leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
Can I Prepare This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mixture, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly again.
What Are Good Dippers for Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, and crackers all make perfect dippers and help balance the spicy, creamy flavors of the dip.