Easy Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip: Game Day Crowd-Pleaser
The Ultimate Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing buffalo chicken dip that will have everyone asking for your recipe, you’ve found it! This creamy, cheesy appetizer brings together all the flavors of classic buffalo wings but in a deliciously dippable form that’s perfect for game day gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion worth celebrating.
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Why This Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe Works
This spicy chicken dip combines tender shredded chicken with creamy cheese and zesty hot sauce for an irresistible combination that tastes just like buffalo wings but without the mess! The slow cooker method means:
- Set it and forget it convenience – perfect for busy hosts
- Even melting and flavor distribution – no scorching or uneven spots
- Keeps the dip warm throughout your gathering
- Simple preparation with minimal cleanup
What You’ll Need for This Cheesy Buffalo Dip
- 2 (10 ounce) cans chunk chicken, drained (or 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
- Celery sticks, tortilla chips, or crackers for serving
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Dip in Your Slow Cooker
- Place your slow cooker on low and add the cream cheese, breaking it into smaller pieces to help it melt evenly.
- Drain canned chicken thoroughly and add to the slow cooker, using two forks to shred it into smaller pieces.
- Pour in the buffalo hot sauce and ranch dressing, stirring gently to combine.
- Add 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and the blue cheese crumbles, stirring to incorporate.
- Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until everything is well melted and combined.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese on top and cover until melted.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and extra blue cheese crumbles if desired.
- Serve warm with celery sticks, tortilla chips, or crackers for dipping.
Flavor Variations for Your Buffalo Chicken Dip
This versatile hot wing dip recipe can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences:
- Mild Version: Reduce the hot sauce to 1/4 cup and increase the ranch dressing to 3/4 cup
- Extra Spicy: Add 1-2 tablespoons of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños
- Ranch Lovers: Substitute all blue cheese with ranch dressing and use ranch-flavored chips for dipping
- Smokehouse Style: Add 1/4 teaspoon of liquid smoke and use smoked cheddar cheese
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This buffalo chicken cheese dip is perfect for planning ahead:
- Make-Ahead: Prepare all ingredients and store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Refrigeration: Leftover dip can be refrigerated for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
- Reheating: Warm refrigerated dip in the microwave at 50% power, stirring every 30 seconds, or return to the slow cooker on low for 30-45 minutes.
- Freezing: While possible, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Freeze for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Perfect Pairings for Buffalo Chicken Dip
Take your game day buffalo dip to the next level with these perfect companions:
- Classic Dippers: Celery sticks, carrot sticks, bell pepper slices, tortilla chips, pita chips, or crusty bread
- Beverages: Cold beer, ranch water, or a crisp white wine to balance the heat
- Complementary Appetizers: Pair with loaded potato skins, jalapeño poppers, or a vegetable platter to round out your spread
Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Chicken Dip
Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?
Absolutely! Two cups of shredded rotisserie chicken or poached chicken breast works perfectly as a substitute for canned chicken.
How do I know when my buffalo chicken dip is ready?
Your dip is ready when all cheeses are completely melted, ingredients are thoroughly combined, and the mixture is heated throughout (approximately 165°F internal temperature).
Can I make this dip in the oven instead?
Yes! Combine all ingredients in a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
My dip is too spicy. How can I tone it down?
Add more cream cheese or a dollop of sour cream to help mellow the heat while maintaining the creamy texture.
Why This Buffalo Chicken Dip Will Become Your Go-To Appetizer
Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, need a potluck contribution, or just craving a delicious snack, this buffalo chicken dip recipe delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. The combination of spicy buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, and tender chicken creates an irresistible appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more!
Recipe adapted from AllRecipes.
The Ultimate Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients
Method
- Place your slow cooker on low and add the cream cheese, breaking it into smaller pieces to help it melt evenly.
- Drain canned chicken thoroughly and add to the slow cooker, using two forks to shred it into smaller pieces.
- Pour in the buffalo hot sauce and ranch dressing, stirring gently to combine.
- Add 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and the blue cheese crumbles, stirring to incorporate.
- Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until everything is well melted and combined.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese on top and cover until melted.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and extra blue cheese crumbles if desired.
- Serve warm with celery sticks, tortilla chips, or crackers for dipping.
Nutrition
