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Buffalo Chicken Dip (Oven-Baked) - Creamy, Spicy, Crowd-Pleasing Comfort

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup Buffalo-style hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot; adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing if you prefer)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella (optional, for extra melt)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, for those who love the funk)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for richer flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish (about 8x8 inches or similar).
  2. Soften the cream cheese: If it’s not soft, microwave it for 15–20 seconds to make mixing easier. Soft cream cheese ensures a smooth dip.
  3. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, ranch dressing, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and butter (if using). Stir until smooth and evenly blended.
  4. Add the chicken and cheese: Fold in the shredded chicken, 3/4 cup cheddar, and Monterey Jack or mozzarella. Add blue cheese if you like that classic Buffalo flavor.
  5. Taste and adjust: Add salt, pepper, or more hot sauce to taste. You want a bold, balanced flavor before baking.
  6. Transfer and top: Spread the mixture evenly into the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar on top for a nice golden crust.
  7. Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the dip is hot and bubbly around the edges and the cheese is melted. For a lightly browned top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
  8. Garnish and serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with green onions or chives. Serve warm with tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, crackers, or toasted baguette slices.