Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip

Name: Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making this Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip for gatherings because it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and creamy cheese creates an irresistible dip that pairs perfectly with tortilla chips or veggies. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for last-minute party plans. Sharing this dip with friends always brings smiles, and I can never resist going back for a second helping. It’s a must-try for any appetizer lover and perfect for game day or potluck occasions!

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:52:12.170Z

When I first whipped up this Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip, I didn't expect it to become a staple in my appetizer repertoire. I was hosting a small get-together, and after some trial and error with various dip recipes, I realized that the combination of shredded chicken and buffalo sauce was unbeatable. The burst of flavor wins every time!

One tip I found really enhances the experience is to let the dip cool slightly before serving. That way, the creamy cheese solidifies just enough to make it extra delicious, and the flavors meld perfectly. Each bite feels indulgent yet comforting, making it a favorite amongst my guests.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that is perfectly balanced with spicy buffalo flavor
Quick and easy preparation, ideal for any occasion
Great for sharing, making it a popular choice for gatherings

      

Perfecting Your Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip

When making Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip, the key to achieving the perfect creamy texture lies in choosing the right cream cheese. Ensure that it is thoroughly softened to room temperature, which helps it blend smoothly with the other ingredients. This step prevents any lumps and results in a dip that is beautifully creamy and cohesive. If you're short on time, microwaving the cream cheese for about 20 seconds can help, but be careful not to melt it too much.

An essential component of this dip is the buffalo sauce. The heat level can vary significantly between brands, so taste the sauce before adding it to the mix. If you prefer a milder dip, feel free to reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix in a bit of ranch dressing to tone down the spice while still retaining that classic buffalo flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers or want to prepare this dip in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember that the flavors will continue to meld, often making it taste even better the next day. For reheating, simply place it back in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. Cover with foil if the cheese starts browning too quickly.

For those who like to meal prep, this dip freezes beautifully. Transfer the cooled dip into a freezer-safe container and store it for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. The creamy texture is preserved well, but you may want to stir in an additional dollop of sour cream after thawing to restore some moisture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers. While tortilla chips are a classic choice, consider fresh veggie sticks like celery, carrots, or bell peppers for a crunchier contrast. You can also serve it with soft pretzel bites or pita chips for a different texture. I love presenting this dip in a decorative bowl with dippers arranged around it for a stunning display at gatherings.

For those looking to customize the recipe, feel free to incorporate additional ingredients. Chopped celery or green bell peppers can add a nice crunch. You could also mix in some crumbled blue cheese for an extra savory layer, paying homage to traditional buffalo wing flavors. Just be cautious with additions so that the balance of creaminess and spice remains intact.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Make sure everything is fresh for the best possible flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dip:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the ingredients

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth.

Add buffalo sauce

Stir in buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Transfer to baking dish

Spread the mixture into a baking dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese.

Bake

Bake for 20-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Enjoy your delicious dip with your favorite dippers!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mix. You can also try substituting the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten up this dip, Greek yogurt can be a great alternative to sour cream and mayonnaise. It provides the same tangy flavor but with added protein and lower fat content. Additionally, using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic way to save time in preparing the dip, allowing you to skip the step of cooking chicken from scratch. Just ensure to shred it finely for even mixing.

For a dairy-free version, opt for vegan cream cheese and a mayo substitute. There are also several plant-based buffalo sauces available if you're looking to keep the flavor profile intact. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning since some alternatives can be very mild.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your dip appears too thick after baking, it may need a little extra moisture. Stir in a splash of milk or warm chicken broth before serving. This can help achieve that perfect creamy consistency without sacrificing flavor. Alternatively, if you find the dip too runny, consider adding an additional layer of cheese on top and returning it to the oven for a few more minutes to thicken up.

For those who experience scorching on top before the dip is heated through, try covering the baking dish with aluminum foil for the first 15 minutes of baking. This will help heat the dip evenly without burning the cheese. Just uncover it for the last few minutes to allow the top to become golden and bubbly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you're ready.

→ What can I use as dippers for this dip?

Tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, and bread slices are all great options!

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Sure! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheese varieties like pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or oven before serving.