Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip

This creamy buffalo chicken dip made in the slow cooker combines tangy buffalo sauce, tender shredded chicken, and melty cheese for the ultimate game day appetizer. The gradual heating process in the crockpot allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly, creating a dip that disappears fast at every gathering I host.

I first made this dip for a Super Bowl party three years ago, and it was such a hit that my friends now expect it at every gathering. The slow cooker method lets me enjoy the party instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Shredded cooked chicken provides the hearty base look for rotisserie chicken for a time saving shortcut
• Cream cheese creates that irresistible creamy texture always let it soften first for easier mixing
• Ranch dressing adds tanginess and creaminess choose a high quality brand for best flavor
• Buffalo sauce brings the signature spicy kick Frank's RedHot is my go to for authentic flavor
• Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully throughout the dip freshly grated melts better than pre shredded
• Green onions add a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor slice them thin for best presentation
• Tortilla chips sturdy ones work best for scooping this thick creamy dip
• Celery sticks provide a cool crisp contrast to the spicy dip perfect for those wanting a low carb option
• Crackers buttery varieties like Ritz complement the spicy flavors wonderfully

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine the Ingredients

Take your crockpot and add the shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mix everything together until well combined. Make sure to break up any cream cheese lumps for even distribution throughout the dip. The mixture will look somewhat separated at this point, but don't worry as it will come together beautifully during cooking.

Cook the Dip

Cover your crockpot with its lid and set the temperature to low. Let it cook for 2 to 3 hours, allowing the cream cheese to melt completely and all flavors to blend. The slow, gentle heat ensures everything melds together without burning. Stir once halfway through if possible to ensure even heating, though it's not strictly necessary.

Final Touches

Once cooking is complete, remove the lid carefully to avoid condensation dripping into your dip. Give everything a thorough stir, noticing how the mixture has transformed into a cohesive, creamy consistency. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until melted. Finish with a scattering of freshly chopped green onions for color and fresh flavor.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the dip to a serving bowl if desired, or serve directly from the crockpot on the warm setting to maintain the perfect temperature throughout your gathering. Arrange tortilla chips, celery sticks, and crackers around the dip in an attractive display. Watch as your guests return for seconds and thirds throughout the event.

Pin

This dip reminds me of Sunday football gatherings at my parents' house growing up. My dad would always add extra buffalo sauce and my mom would cool hers down with extra ranch on top. Now I make it for my own family, and everyone has their own preferred way of enjoying it.

Make Ahead Options

This buffalo chicken dip works perfectly as a make ahead appetizer. You can combine all ingredients in the crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold. Alternatively, you can cook the dip completely, cool, refrigerate, and reheat in the crockpot on low for 1 hour before serving. The flavors actually improve after a day in the refrigerator as they have more time to meld together.

Heat Level Adjustments

The beauty of homemade buffalo chicken dip lies in controlling exactly how spicy you want it. For milder palates, start with just ¼ cup of buffalo sauce and taste before adding more. You can always stir in additional sauce at the end of cooking if desired. For those who love heat, increase to ¾ cup buffalo sauce or add 1 tablespoon of minced jalapeños to the mix. I keep bottles of additional buffalo sauce and ranch dressing on the side so guests can customize their portions to their heat preference.

Protein Variations

While traditional chicken creates a classic buffalo dip, this recipe adapts beautifully to other proteins. Shredded rotisserie chicken is my weeknight shortcut, but leftover turkey works wonderfully after Thanksgiving. For a seafood twist, substitute canned lump crab meat or cooked shrimp chopped into small pieces. Vegetarians can enjoy this dip by using crumbled extra firm tofu sautéed with buffalo sauce spices or a plant based chicken substitute. Each version brings its own unique character while maintaining that signature buffalo flavor profile.

Pin

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make buffalo chicken dip ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dip up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate. When ready to serve, place it in the crockpot on low for 1-2 hours until heated through. Stir occasionally for even warming.

→ How spicy is this buffalo chicken dip?

The spice level is customizable based on the amount of buffalo sauce you add. Start with less if you prefer a milder flavor, or add more for extra heat. The cream cheese and ranch dressing help balance the spiciness.

→ What's the best chicken to use for buffalo dip?

Both shredded rotisserie chicken and canned chicken work well. Rotisserie chicken adds more flavor, while canned chicken saves time. You can also cook and shred chicken breasts or thighs specifically for this dip.

→ Can I make this dip in something other than a crockpot?

Absolutely! Bake it in a covered casserole dish at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly. Alternatively, combine ingredients in a saucepan and heat over medium-low, stirring frequently until melted and well combined.

→ How long can buffalo chicken dip sit out at a party?

For food safety, don't leave the dip at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If serving for longer, keep it warm in the crockpot on the lowest setting or reheat portions as needed.

→ Can I freeze leftover buffalo chicken dip?

Yes, buffalo chicken dip freezes well! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the microwave or crockpot until hot and bubbly.