Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip in the Oven
If you’re looking for the perfect appetizer that will wow your friends and family, look no further than this easy buffalo chicken dip in the oven. This dish combines tender shredded chicken with a creamy base and a kick of buffalo sauce, making it the ideal choice for game days, parties, or just a cozy night at home. It’s simple to prepare, baked to perfection, and sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serving Size: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips or celery sticks for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Add the shredded chicken, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the chopped green onions to the bowl. Stir everything together until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top the dip with the remaining cheddar cheese and green onions for extra flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips or celery sticks for dipping.
Why You Will Love This Buffalo Chicken Dip
This easy buffalo chicken dip in the oven is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the level of spiciness by using mild or hot buffalo sauce. The creamy texture paired with the shredded chicken creates a comforting dish that everyone loves.
Additionally, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option. You can prepare it a day in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a great choice for busy days when you still want to impress your guests!
Tips for Making the Best Buffalo Chicken Dip
Here are some tips to ensure your buffalo chicken dip turns out perfectly every time:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an even easier prep, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like diced celery or blue cheese for added texture and flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Cheese: The cheese not only adds flavor but also helps bind the dip together, making it creamier.
- Serve with Variety: While tortilla chips are classic, you can also serve with pita chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover buffalo chicken dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated thoroughly. If the dip seems too thick, add a splash of ranch dressing or buffalo sauce to loosen it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make buffalo chicken dip ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.
2. What can I serve with buffalo chicken dip?
This dip is perfect with tortilla chips, but you can also serve it with celery sticks, carrot sticks, pita chips, or crackers.
3. How spicy is this buffalo chicken dip?
The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. For a milder flavor, opt for a mild buffalo sauce, or adjust the amount to your taste.
4. Can I freeze buffalo chicken dip?
Yes, you can freeze the dip before baking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking it when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
This easy buffalo chicken dip in the oven is a must-try for any gathering. With its creamy texture and spicy kick, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. So gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up this fantastic dip that everyone will love!
Don’t forget to share your buffalo chicken dip experience and tag your friends who need to try this recipe. Happy dipping!