Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip

Y’all, picture this: It’s a Friday night in Texas. The kids are wound up, ready for a movie night, and I’m craving something warm, comforting, and easy. Enter my Buffalo Chicken Dip. The tangy kick of buffalo sauce, the creamy richness of cheese, and the savory chicken all meld together in a way that makes everyone happy. I’ve made this Crock-Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip countless times in my kitchen, and it’s always a hit. This recipe delivers a no-fuss, flavor-packed appetizer that’s perfect for game day, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.

Why This Recipe Works

As a busy mom, I need recipes that are simple, delicious, and don’t require a ton of effort. This Buffalo Chicken Dip checks all those boxes. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Quick & Easy: Throw everything in the crock pot and let it do its thing. Minimal prep time required!
• Kid-Approved: Even my picky eaters love the creamy, cheesy goodness. Plus, you can adjust the heat to suit their preferences.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep this dip earlier in the day or even the night before, making it perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 large chicken breasts)
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish

Ingredient Notes

Here’s a little more detail on why each ingredient is key and how you can customize them:

• Chicken: I often use rotisserie chicken to save time, but you can also boil or bake chicken breasts. Make sure it’s shredded well for the best texture.
• Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is a must! It ensures the dip is creamy and smooth. If you forget to soften it, you can microwave it in 30-second intervals until softened, but be careful not to melt it.
• Ranch Dressing: Adds creaminess and a familiar flavor. You can use your favorite brand or even homemade ranch.
• Buffalo Wing Sauce: The star of the show! I prefer Frank’s RedHot, but feel free to use your favorite brand. Adjust the amount to control the heat level.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds a cheesy, melty goodness. You can use sharp, mild, or a blend of cheeses.
• Blue Cheese: This is optional, but I love the tangy kick it adds. If you’re not a fan, you can leave it out or substitute with more cheddar.
• Green Onions: Add a fresh, bright flavor and a pop of color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make this easy and delicious Buffalo Chicken Dip in your crock pot:

1. Step 1: Combine Ingredients. In a crock pot, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, buffalo wing sauce, cheddar cheese, and blue cheese (if using).
2. Step 2: Mix Well. Stir everything together until well combined. You want to make sure the cream cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Step 3: Cook. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-2 hours, or until the cheese is melted and the dip is heated through. I like to stir it halfway through to ensure everything is evenly melted.
4. Step 4: Garnish and Serve. Garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot with your favorite dippers like tortilla chips, celery sticks, or baguette slices.

Storage & Meal Prep

Want to plan ahead? Here’s how to store and meal prep this dip:

• Storage: Store leftover Buffalo Chicken Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dip a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the crock pot and heat it through.
• Batch Prep: This recipe doubles or triples easily, making it perfect for parties. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Substitutions & Variations

Want to tweak the recipe? Here are some ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free tortilla chips or vegetables.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheddar cheese alternatives. I haven’t tested specific brands, but there are some great options available.
• Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Cooler: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt to tone down the heat.
• Cheesier: Add a sprinkle of Monterey Jack cheese for more cheesy goodness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can definitely make this Buffalo Chicken Dip ahead of time. Prepare all the ingredients and mix them together in the crock pot. Store it in the refrigerator overnight, and then cook it according to the recipe instructions when you’re ready to serve.

How do I know when the dip is done?

The dip is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the mixture is heated through. It should be creamy and easily stirred. The cooking time may vary depending on your crock pot, so keep an eye on it.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, you can use canned chicken in this recipe. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the crock pot. Keep in mind that canned chicken may have a slightly different texture than freshly cooked chicken.

What if I don’t have a crock pot?

No problem! You can also make this Buffalo Chicken Dip in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix all the ingredients together in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Is this dip kid-friendly?

Yes, with a few adjustments. If you’re making it for kids, you can reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce to make it less spicy. You can also add a little bit of extra ranch dressing to make it creamier and milder.

Can I freeze this dip?

While you can freeze Buffalo Chicken Dip, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. The cream cheese can sometimes become a bit grainy. If you do freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What are some good things to serve with this dip?

I love serving this dip with tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, baguette slices, or even crackers. It’s also great with bell pepper strips or cucumber slices for a lighter option.

So there you have it, friends! My go-to, family-approved Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor – everything a busy Texas mom could ask for. I hope y’all give it a try and love it as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your results in the comments below. And if you’re looking for more simple, delicious recipes for your family, be sure to check out my other recipes and sign up for my newsletter. Happy cooking!

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