Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip is a crowd-pleasing party favorite that brings together spicy buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, and tender shredded chicken. It’s warm, cheesy, and just the right amount of spicy, making it a perfect snack for game days or casual get-togethers. The dip’s rich texture and bold flavors make it hard to put down!
I love making this dip when friends come over because it’s always a hit, and it’s super easy to put together. Using Frank’s RedHot sauce gives it that classic buffalo flavor I grew up loving, and the combo of cream cheese and cheddar keeps it smooth and satisfying. I sometimes like to add a little extra shredded cheese on top and pop it under the broiler for a golden, bubbly finish that everyone asks for.
Serving this dip with crunchy tortilla chips or celery sticks is my go-to because the crisp textures balance the creamy heat so well. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together — I always end up chatting more just because everyone keeps reaching for another scoop. If you’ve never tried buffalo chicken dip, this recipe is a friendly, tasty way to discover why it’s such a classic!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frank’s RedHot Sauce: This sauce gives the dip its signature buffalo heat. If you want a milder dip, try using less sauce or substitute with a milder hot sauce that you enjoy.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese makes the dip creamy and smooth. For a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt, but the texture will change slightly.
Cooked Chicken: I usually use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor. If you don’t have rotisserie, shredded cooked chicken breasts or thighs work great too.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds depth and richness. You can swap this for Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a different twist.
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Ranch keeps the dip creamy and cool, while blue cheese adds a tangy kick. Choose based on your preference, or use a homemade dressing for a fresher taste.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Smooth, Creamy Buffalo Dip?
To get that creamy, smooth texture, it’s important to soften the cream cheese well before mixing. This helps it blend easily with the other ingredients without lumps.
- Bring cream cheese to room temperature or microwave for 15 seconds to soften.
- Mix the cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and dressing vigorously until smooth before adding chicken.
- Fold in the chicken and cheese gently to keep the mixture even and creamy.
- Bake until hot and bubbly—that’s the sign it’s perfectly melted and ready to serve!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – To combine your ingredients easily and thoroughly.
- Whisk or spoon – For mixing the cream cheese, hot sauce, and dressing until smooth.
- Baking dish – An 8×8 or similar size dish works well to hold the dip as it bakes evenly.
- Oven – To heat the dip until bubbly and golden on top.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate portioning of sauces and cheeses.
- Knife and cutting board – To chop green onions or any additional toppings.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked shredded turkey or pulled pork instead of chicken for a different taste.
- Stir in chopped celery or carrots for extra crunch and freshness.
- Mix in a tablespoon of blue cheese dressing or crumbled blue cheese for a tangy twist.
- Add diced jalapeños or banana peppers if you want more heat and tang.
Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or boiled chicken)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing if preferred)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, for topping)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Paprika or cayenne pepper (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake. So, in just around 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, warm dip ready to serve your guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Mix Ingredients:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready when you finish mixing. In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and ranch dressing until everything is smooth and creamy.
2. Add Chicken and Cheese:
Carefully fold in the shredded cooked chicken and shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure it’s all mixed well so every bite is flavorful.
3. Bake the Dip:
Pour the mixture into a baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the dip is hot and bubbling around the edges.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take the dish out and sprinkle crumbled blue cheese and sliced green onions on top for extra flavor and a fresh pop of color. Add a little paprika or cayenne pepper dust if you like it spicier. Serve warm with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before shredding. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip and assemble it in the baking dish, then cover 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?
Cool the dip completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
What Are Good Alternatives for Ranch Dressing?
If you prefer, use blue cheese dressing for a tangier flavor, or even plain Greek yogurt mixed with a little garlic powder as a lighter substitute.