RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip

Frank’s RedHot Sauce is the non-negotiable star here, providing that perfect vinegary punch and layered heat that powder can’t replicate. This RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip celebrates that iconic ingredient, letting its character shine through every creamy bite. I remember the first time I brought a bubbling dish of it to a friend’s potluck. It was a last-minute decision, thrown together with leftover rotisserie chicken and the staples I always have in the fridge. I set it down, a little unsure, and within minutes, a crowd had formed around the table. The conversation stopped, replaced by the sound of crackers crunching and the collective, happy sigh that only truly great comfort food can inspire. That’s the magic of a great buffalo chicken dip recipe—it’s not just a snack; it’s the centerpiece, the conversation starter, the dish that makes people forget their phones. This version is my homage to that classic, no-fuss spirit. It’s the simple buffalo chicken dip recipe you can trust to work every single time, using regular kitchen tools and a short ingredient list to create something that feels like a warm, spicy hug. Whether you’re feeding a game-day crowd or just need a cozy treat for movie night, this dip is your answer. Simple ingredients, warm memories.

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Ingredients List

This RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip comes together with a short list of friendly ingredients, most of which you might already have waiting for you. The beauty is in their balance: creamy, tangy, spicy, and savory all in one dish.

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 1 rotisserie chicken or 2 large breasts)
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce (the classic cayenne pepper sauce is key)
• ½ cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing for a more traditional kick)
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, but highly recommended)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish

Smart Swaps & Notes:

• Chicken: Leftover roasted chicken, boiled chicken breast, or even a can of high-quality chunk chicken (drained) works in a pinch. For a different twist, try using ground chicken for a finer, more spreadable texture in your ground chicken buffalo dip.
• Dairy: Use full-fat for the creamiest result, but low-fat cream cheese and sour cream will work. For a dairy-free version, seek out good plant-based cream cheese and sour cream alternatives.
• Heat & Flavor: Frank’s is the soul of this dish. Other hot sauces will change the flavor profile significantly. If you want it milder, start with ⅓ cup and add more to taste. The ranch dressing mellows the heat beautifully.

Timing

One of the best things about dips like buffalo chicken dip is how quickly they come together for maximum payoff.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

That’s it. In about half an hour, you can go from a quiet kitchen to a bowl of hot, cheesy, spicy perfection. It’s about 50% faster than many baked appetizer recipes, because there’s no dough to make or proteins to cook from raw. This is comfort food, made easy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s walk through making this iconic dip. It’s a straightforward process, but a few small tips make all the difference.

1. Prep Your Oven & Dish. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9-inch pie dish, an 8x8 baking dish, or a similar-sized oven-safe skillet. Giving it a quick light spray with oil isn’t strictly necessary, but it makes cleanup a breeze.

2. Combine the Creamy Base. In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, ranch dressing, and ½ cup of the Frank’s RedHot Sauce. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula to beat this together until it’s completely smooth and creamy. No lumps! This smooth base is what ensures every bite of your Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip is luxuriously consistent.

3. Fold in the Good Stuff. To the creamy mixture, add all of your shredded chicken, 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the crumbled blue cheese (if using). Use a spatula to fold everything together gently but thoroughly. You want the chicken to be evenly coated in that glorious, spicy cream cheese mixture.

4. Assemble & Bake. Transfer the entire mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it out into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and just starting to get those perfect golden spots around the edges.

5. Garnish & Serve. Carefully remove the dip from the oven. Let it sit for about 5 minutes—it will be molten lava hot! This rest allows it to set slightly for better dipping. Sprinkle generously with sliced green onions. Serve immediately while it’s wonderfully warm and gooey.

Nutritional Information

A serving of this hearty dip (about ¼ cup) provides approximately:

• Calories: ~180
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fat: 15g

It’s a protein-packed option thanks to the chicken and cheese, making it more satisfying than many other appetizers. The primary carbs come from the sauces and any dippers you choose. For a lighter take, see the healthier alternatives below.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need any fancy gadgets for this RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip. Regular kitchen, regular time, great results.

• A 9-inch pie dish or 8x8 baking dish
• A large mixing bowl
• A hand mixer or sturdy silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another dip recipe. It’s a guaranteed hit, and here’s why:

1. The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: I’ve never seen a dish empty faster. It appeals to almost everyone and turns any gathering into a party.
2. Incredibly Forgiving & Flexible: Use leftover chicken, swap the cheeses, adjust the heat—it’s hard to mess up. It’s the simple buffalo chicken dip recipe that adapts to your kitchen.
3. Meal Prep Hero: You can assemble the entire dip a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Just add 5-10 minutes to the bake time when you’re ready. It also freezes beautifully.
4. More Than a Dip: The leftovers (if you have any!) are fantastic. Think stuffed peppers, a topping for baked potatoes, or a filling for next-day wraps.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Love the flavor but want to lighten it up? You can easily adapt this Frank’s chicken buffalo dip.

• Lighter Dairy: Use Neufchâtel cheese (the ⅓ less fat block next to cream cheese) and light sour cream. Opt for a light ranch dressing.
• Boost Protein & Reduce Fat: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also increase the ratio of chicken to cheese for a higher-protein, lower-fat buffalo chicken dip.
• Low-Carb/Keto: This recipe is naturally low in carbs! Just ensure your ranch dressing and hot sauce are sugar-free. Serve with celery sticks, cucumber slices, or pork rinds for dipping.
• Gluten-Free: The dip itself is naturally gluten-free. Always double-check your hot sauce and dressing labels to confirm no gluten-containing additives are present.

Serving Suggestions

This RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip is the star, but its supporting cast makes the show.

• Classic Dippers: Tortilla chips, sturdy potato chips, celery sticks, and carrot sticks are the go-to fleet.
• Get Creative: Pretzel rods, toasted baguette slices, bell pepper strips, or even crispy tater tots for dipping.
• Make it a Meal: Scoop it onto a baked potato, stuff it into a flour tortilla for a quick buffalo chicken wrap, or use it as a epic topping for a juicy burger.
• Garnish Galore: Beyond green onions, a extra drizzle of Frank’s, a dollop of extra ranch or blue cheese dressing, or even a few crispy bacon bits on top take it over the top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A few small missteps can change your dip’s texture. Here’s how to avoid them.

1. Using Cold Cream Cheese: This is the #1 cause of a lumpy dip. Let your cream cheese sit on the counter for at least 30 minutes to soften. It should spread easily.
2. Overbaking: You want it hot, bubbly, and melted—not dried out. The 20-25 minute window is usually perfect. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it loosely with foil.
3. Skipping the Rest: I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but letting the baked buffalo chicken dip sit for 5 minutes allows it to thicken slightly so it stays on your chip instead of sliding off.
4. Underseasoning: Taste your mixture before you bake it! Frank’s and the dressing provide salt and flavor, but if you’re using very plain chicken, don’t be afraid to add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or black pepper to the mix.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

This dip makes fantastic leftovers, and it’s a great make-ahead option.

• Refrigerating: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: The best way to reheat is in the oven at 350°F until warm throughout (about 15-20 minutes), or in smaller portions in the microwave. Add a tiny splash of milk or extra dressing if it seems too thick after refrigeration.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked, assembled dip (without the final cheese topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, add the topping, and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes as needed. You can also freeze portions of baked dip.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, the best buffalo chicken dips are the ones that bring people together with minimal stress and maximum flavor. This RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe is exactly that—a dependable, joyful, and utterly delicious dish that feels like home. It’s the one you’ll make for every big game, casual get-together, or even just a cozy night in when you need a treat. The familiar tang of Frank’s, the creamy cheese, the tender chicken… it’s a combination that never fails.

I hope this recipe becomes a trusted favorite in your home, too. When you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you add extra blue cheese? Try it with ground chicken? Let me know in the comments below. And if you’re looking for other ways to enjoy that iconic buffalo flavor, check out my recipes for Buffalo Chicken Taquitos for a fun, handheld version, or this protein-packed High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad for a lighter lunch option. For more cozy, creamy chicken ideas, my Low Carb Crack Chicken Soup and Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi are always reader favorites.

Don’t forget to tag @StackSipSnack on Pinterest if you share a photo—nothing makes me happier than seeing your kitchen creations. Happy dipping.

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