Buffalo chicken dip is one of those recipes that never lasts long once it hits the table. Creamy, spicy, and baked until golden and bubbling on top, it brings everything you love about buffalo wings into a warm, scoopable appetizer. The rich cheese layer forms that irresistible crispy edge while the inside stays smooth and packed with bold flavor.
This baked buffalo chicken dip recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for game day, family gatherings, or casual weekends when you want something comforting but impressive. If you already love bold buffalo flavors, you should also try our Buffalo Chicken Cones, which turn that same creamy, spicy filling into a crispy handheld snack.
What makes this version special is the balance. It is rich without being heavy, cheesy without feeling greasy, and just spicy enough to keep you coming back for another scoop. With a handful of simple ingredients and a short bake time, this dip delivers big flavor with very little effort.
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Dip
This buffalo chicken dip is the kind of recipe you make once and then keep coming back to. It delivers bold flavor without complicated steps, and it works for almost any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving something warm and cheesy, this dip fits the moment.
- Creamy and rich with a crispy golden cheese topping
- Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for game day, parties, and casual gatherings
- Can be made ahead and baked when ready to serve
- Full buffalo flavor without the mess of wings
If you enjoy that crispy, cheesy texture in recipes like our Crispy Chicken Cones, you’ll love how this dip bakes into a bubbly, golden layer on top while staying smooth and creamy underneath.
What Makes This Buffalo Chicken Dip So Good
The secret to a great buffalo chicken dip is balance. Too much sauce and it turns watery. Too much cheese and it becomes heavy. This version keeps everything creamy and rich without feeling greasy. The cream cheese creates a smooth base, the buffalo sauce brings bold heat, and the shredded chicken adds texture so every bite feels satisfying.
Baking it just long enough makes all the difference. The top layer of cheese melts into a bubbly golden crust while the inside stays soft and scoopable. That contrast between crispy edges and creamy center is what makes this dip stand out.
If you enjoy bold comfort flavors like our Crispy Beef Cones, this dip brings that same satisfying richness in a shareable form that’s perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked shredded chicken | 2 cups |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 ounces |
| Buffalo sauce | ½ cup |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by shredding your cooked chicken into small, even pieces. Using rotisserie chicken makes this recipe quick and easy. Make sure the chicken is finely shredded so it blends smoothly into the creamy buffalo base.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Buffalo Base
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in your buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. Stir gently until the mixture becomes smooth and fully combined. This is where the bold flavor begins.
Step 3: Add Seasoning
Stir in chopped green onions along with salt and black pepper. Let everything simmer gently so the flavors can develop and deepen.
Step 4: Fold in the Chicken
Add the shredded chicken into the skillet and gently fold it into the sauce. Stir until every piece is coated and evenly combined.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle in shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and creamy. The mixture will become thick and smooth.
Step 6: Mix Until Creamy
Continue stirring until everything is fully combined and thick. The dip should look creamy, smooth, and rich.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and top with extra shredded cheese. Bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes, then broil briefly until the top turns golden and bubbly.
Pro Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Use softened cream cheese so the dip mixes smoothly without lumps.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a creamier texture.
- Do not overbake. Remove it once the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving so it thickens slightly.
These small details make a big difference in texture and flavor.
What to Serve With Buffalo Chicken Dip
This dip pairs perfectly with toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, or crunchy celery sticks.
If you love bold flavors, try serving it alongside Crispy Chicken Cones for a full party spread.
For something lighter and refreshing, pair it with Garlic Yogurt Sauce on the side to balance the heat.
Hosting a bigger dinner? Serve this dip before a hearty main like One Pot Beef and Rice for a complete meal experience.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through or microwave in short intervals while stirring.
Food Safety Note
Always ensure your air fryer reaches the proper temperature before cooking. Pizza cones should be cooked until the cheese is fully melted and the tortillas are golden and crisp. If using meat toppings such as ground beef or sausage, make sure they are fully cooked before filling the cones. For general food safety guidelines, visit the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service .
Buffalo Chicken Dip
A creamy, cheesy buffalo chicken dip baked until bubbly and golden on top. Perfect for game day, parties, or a warm comfort-style appetizer.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet, combine buffalo sauce and ranch dressing over medium heat.
- Add shredded chicken and stir until evenly coated.
- Mix in cream cheese and half of the shredded cheeses until smooth.
- Transfer mixture to baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
- Garnish with green onions and serve warm.
Notes: Let the dip rest for 5 minutes before serving. Adjust spice level by increasing or reducing buffalo sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare buffalo chicken dip in advance?
Yes. You can assemble the dip up to 24 hours ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving so the top becomes bubbly and lightly golden.
What type of chicken works best?
Cooked shredded chicken breast or rotisserie chicken both work well. Finely shredding the chicken ensures it blends evenly into the creamy base.
How can I adjust the spice level?
The heat level depends on the buffalo sauce used. For a milder dip, reduce the sauce slightly or choose a mild variety. For extra heat, add a small pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can this recipe be made in an air fryer?
Yes. Transfer the mixture into an oven-safe dish and cook at 350°F for approximately 10 to 12 minutes, or until heated through and the top begins to bubble.
Which cheeses create the best texture?
A combination of mozzarella for melt and cheddar for flavor provides the best balance of creaminess and depth.
Nutrition Information
Estimated per serving
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.
Buffalo chicken dip is one of those recipes that never fails to bring people together. It’s warm, creamy, bold, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a game day gathering, a casual weekend get-together, or simply craving something comforting at home, this dip delivers every time. Fresh from the oven with that golden, bubbly top, it’s the kind of dish that disappears fast and gets requested again and again. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and easy preparation — that’s what makes this recipe a true favorite.
Recipe Disclaimer
This recipe is provided for informational purposes only. Cooking times and temperatures may vary depending on your air fryer model and kitchen equipment. Always use your best judgment when preparing food and ensure ingredients are cooked safely. Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the exact products used. For full details, please review our full disclaimer policy .
Krish Shrestha
I’m Krish Shrestha, the creator of Krivia Recipes. I share practical, ingredient-focused recipes made with simple ingredients and clear step-by-step instructions designed for real kitchens and everyday home cooking.
