If there’s one recipe that never fails on game day, at family gatherings, or any casual get-together, it’s Buffalo Chicken Dip. This version is made in the Crock-Pot, which means no constant stirring or babysitting. You toss everything in, let it warm up, and the slow cooker does all the work.
I’ve made this dip dozens of times for parties, and it always disappears fast. The best part? You only need a few simple ingredients and about five minutes of prep.
If you love warm, cheesy dips, you’ll also enjoy my Spinach Artichoke Dip another crowd-pleasing classic!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 5 basic ingredients
- No need to heat your oven
- Perfect for parties, tailgates, and potlucks
- Stays warm and creamy for hours
- Works great with chips, celery, or toasted bread
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient adds something important to the creamy, spicy balance. Here’s what goes in:
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken Rotisserie chicken is ideal for quick prep.
- 8 oz cream cheese Gives the dip its creamy base. Use full-fat for the richest flavor.
- ½ cup Frank’s RedHot sauce The classic choice for real Buffalo flavor.
- ½ cup ranch dressing Adds tang and cools the heat slightly.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Melts beautifully and gives that cheesy pull.
Optional Add-Ins
- ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese for extra punch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder for a deeper flavor
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Crock-Pot Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Place the chicken, cream cheese, Frank’s RedHot, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar into your Crock-Pot. Stir lightly to mix.
Step 2: Slow Cook
Set your slow cooker to low for 2–3 hours or high for 1–1.5 hours. Stir once halfway through to help the cheese melt evenly.
Step 3: Stir and Serve
When everything is smooth and hot, give it one final stir. Top with a little extra cheese or chopped green onions before serving.
Tip: If you’re serving at a party, keep the Crock-Pot on warm to hold the dip at the perfect temperature for hours.
Ingredient Breakdown (Why Each Matters)
- Chicken: Adds protein and texture. Shredded rotisserie chicken gives a juicy, pulled consistency.
- Cream Cheese: Creates the creamy base that keeps the dip thick and smooth.
- Frank’s RedHot Sauce: Delivers that authentic Buffalo kick. It’s the standard in most top-ranking recipes online.
- Ranch Dressing: Balances spice with cool, tangy creaminess.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the mix and gives that signature gooey texture.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Soften the cream cheese before mixing. It melts faster and blends better.
- Don’t overcook. Once everything is hot and smooth, switch to warm.
- Use a hand mixer after cooking for a fluffier texture.
- Add extra heat with a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Serving Ideas
This dip goes well with almost anything crunchy or crisp. Try these:
- Tortilla chips or pita chips
- Celery sticks and carrot sticks
- Pretzel crisps
- Toasted baguette slices
For parties, serve it straight from the Crock-Pot with a ladle or spoon.
Variations to Try (Boosts Keyword Reach)
Adding these versions can help your post reach more readers looking for different twists on Buffalo Chicken Dip:
1. Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip
Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Perfect when you want a crusty cheese layer.
2. Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip
Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt and use neufchâtel cheese instead of full-fat cream cheese. Still creamy but lighter.
3. Extra-Spicy Buffalo Dip
Add minced jalapeños or a few dashes of habanero sauce for serious heat.
4. Gourmet Version
Use smoked gouda or sharp white cheddar instead of regular cheddar. Stir in a bit of fresh blue cheese for a rich finish.
5. Make-Ahead or Freezer-Friendly
Mix everything the night before and refrigerate. The next day, cook on low in your Crock-Pot. You can also freeze it for up to a month and reheat slowly.
FAQ All About Buffalo Chicken Dip
What ingredients are in buffalo chicken dip?
Buffalo chicken dip usually includes shredded chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot), ranch or blue cheese dressing, and shredded cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella. These simple ingredients combine to make a creamy, spicy, and cheesy dip that’s perfect for parties.
How to make buffalo chicken dip with 3 ingredients?
For a quick version, mix cooked shredded chicken, cream cheese, and hot sauce in a bowl. Warm it in the microwave or on the stove until hot and creamy. It’s not as rich as the full recipe but great for a fast, no-fuss appetizer.
What is the best cheese for buffalo chicken dip?
Cheddar cheese is the top choice because it melts smoothly and pairs perfectly with the heat from the hot sauce. You can also mix in mozzarella for extra stretch or blue cheese for a stronger flavor.
Can I use Louisiana hot sauce in buffalo chicken dip?
Yes, you can use Louisiana hot sauce instead of Frank’s RedHot. It gives the dip a slightly tangier and spicier taste. The texture and creaminess will stay the same, so it’s a great substitute if that’s what you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
This Crock-Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip is everything you want in a party snack creamy, spicy, and effortless. It’s the kind of recipe you can throw together in minutes and count on to please everyone.
Once you try it, you’ll never need another Buffalo dip recipe again. Just don’t forget to keep extra chips nearby it disappears fast!
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The Easiest Crock-Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip
This creamy and spicy Crock-Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip is a party favorite that comes together with just a few ingredients. Made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, Frank’s RedHot, ranch dressing, and melted cheddar it’s the easiest slow-cooker appetizer that everyone loves. Perfect for game day, holidays, or family gatherings.
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
Ingredients
2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works best)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
½ cup ranch dressing
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Add-ins:¼ cup crumbled blue cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Add the chicken, cream cheese, Frank’s RedHot, ranch dressing, and cheddar cheese to your Crock-Pot.
Stir lightly to combine.
Cook on Low for 2–3 hours or High for 1–1.5 hours, stirring once halfway through.
Once the cheese is melted and everything is creamy, give it one final stir.
Top with extra cheese or green onions before serving.
Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggie sticks.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for best flavor and texture.
Keep on Warm during parties so it stays creamy.
For extra spice, add jalapeños or more hot sauce.
To make ahead: Combine all ingredients in the Crock-Pot insert, refrigerate overnight, and cook the next day.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours (on Low)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American