Introduction
Transform leftover chicken into a flavor-packed, high-protein dip that’s perfect for game day or any weeknight gathering! This recipe is designed for busy cooks who want delicious results without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy, crowd-pleasing buffalo chicken dip – a low-carb winner!
Why This Works
This recipe delivers on flavor and convenience. The creamy texture, spicy buffalo kick, and satisfying protein content make it a perfect snack or appetizer. It’s also incredibly easy to assemble, requiring minimal prep time and cleanup – ideal for busy schedules.
Key Ingredients
- 🐔 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 🧀 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 🌶️ 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot is recommended)
- 🥣 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 🧅 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 🧀 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, and mayonnaise. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
3️⃣ Stir in the chopped green onions.
4️⃣ Pour the mixture into an oven-safe dish (approximately 8×8 inches).
5️⃣ Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
6️⃣ Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
7️⃣ Let the dip cool slightly before serving.
Handy Tips
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save even more time.
- For a spicier dip, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- If you don’t have green onions, you can substitute with chives or red onion.
Heat Control
Baking at 350°F (175°C) ensures the dip heats through evenly without burning the cheese. Overbaking can lead to a dry dip, so keep an eye on it and remove it from the oven as soon as the cheese is melted and bubbly. Adjust baking time depending on your oven.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe focuses on a creamy texture, you can add a crunch element by topping with crushed tortilla chips or crumbled bacon just before serving.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Make it ahead: Assemble the dip up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake when ready to serve.
- Double the recipe: Easily double the ingredients to feed a larger crowd.
- Flavor boost: Add a tablespoon of ranch dressing for extra creaminess and tang.
Storage Tips
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dip makes a fantastic gift! Package it in a small, oven-safe dish and tie it with a festive ribbon. Include a small bag of tortilla chips or crackers for dipping.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Ranch: Add a packet of ranch seasoning mix for a tangy twist.
🌟 Bacon Cheeseburger: Stir in cooked crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of chopped onion.
🌟 BBQ Chicken: Replace the buffalo wing sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce.
🌟 Creamy Southwestern: Add diced roasted red peppers, corn, and a sprinkle of cumin.
Troubleshooting
- Dip is too dry: Add a tablespoon or two of milk or cream to moisten it.
- Dip is not bubbly: Increase the oven temperature by 25°F (14°C) and bake for a few more minutes.
- Cheese is burning: Reduce the oven temperature by 25°F (14°C) and cover the dish loosely with foil.
FAQ
- Can I use different types of cheese? Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? While not ideal for this particular recipe, you could adapt the recipe for a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients except cheese in your slow cooker on low for 2-3 hours and top with cheese during the last 30 minutes. Keep an eye to prevent burning.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use gluten-free buffalo sauce. Always double-check ingredient labels.
- How many servings does this make? This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings, depending on serving size.
- Can I freeze this dip? It’s best not to freeze this dip, as the texture can change upon thawing.
Conclusion
This High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for game day or any casual gathering. Its quick prep time and delicious flavor will make it a new favorite. Share this recipe with your friends and enjoy!
30-Minute Buffalo Chicken Dip: Game Day Ready
This creamy and spicy buffalo chicken dip is perfect for game day gatherings. It combines shredded chicken, cream cheese, and buffalo sauce for an irresistible appetizer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Tortilla chips or celery sticks for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350u00b0F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing until well mixed.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the chopped green onions.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with the remaining green onions, and serve warm with tortilla chips or celery sticks.
Tips
- For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture.
- Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge, then just bake before serving.