If you’re anything like me and absolutely love bold, zesty flavors packed into a creamy, irresistible dip, then you are going to adore this Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines tender shredded chicken, tangy cream cheese, the unforgettable kick of Frank’s Red Hot sauce, and melty cheddar cheese all baked to bubbly perfection. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just craving a flavorful snack, this dip delivers every single time and will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet crucial ingredients ensures your Buffalo Chicken Dip hits all the right notes: creamy, spicy, and cheesy with a satisfying texture that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken works wonders for a quick, tender base packed with flavor.
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened: Softened cream cheese blends smoothly to give the dip its creamy body.
- 1 cup Frank’s Red Hot sauce: The star ingredient provides the iconic tangy heat that defines this recipe.
- ¾ cup ranch dressing: Adds a refreshing, herby creaminess that balances out the spice.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Cheddar brings cheesy goodness and melts perfectly over the dip.
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional): Offers an extra tangy dimension for blue cheese lovers.
- 2 green onions, chopped: Fresh green onions add a pop of color and subtle onion flavor as garnish.
- Tortilla chips, veggies, or crackers: These are your delicious dippers to scoop up every last bite.
How to Make Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with Frank’s Red Hot sauce, stirring until you achieve a smooth, fiery blend that will coat every crunchy chip with tasty heat.
Step 2: Add Ranch and Chicken
Next, stir in the ranch dressing for a tangy, silky layer of flavor. Then fold in the shredded chicken, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the green onions. This mixture will be bursting with creamy texture and the perfect balance of spice and savory chicken bites.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Transfer this glorious mixture into a baking dish and smooth it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and optional crumbled blue cheese on top for that irresistible cheesy crust. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the dip is piping hot and bubbling, signaling it’s time for everyone to dig in.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, garnish with the rest of the chopped green onions to add a fresh bite and beautiful contrast. This final touch really pulls the entire Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe together visually and flavor-wise.
How to Serve Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped green onions are classic and simple, but feel free to add a sprinkle of extra crumbled blue cheese or a few thin slices of jalapeño for an added kick and impressive presentation.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs brilliantly with crunchy tortilla chips, crisp veggie sticks like celery and carrots, or even hearty crackers. The variety lets your guests choose their perfect vehicle for scooping up that delicious dip.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Buffalo Chicken Dip stuffed inside hollowed-out bread bowls or baked in mini ramekins for individual servings. Another idea is layering it in a clear glass dish topped with colorful veggies and cheese for a gorgeous dip spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply cover any leftover dip tightly and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for enjoying the next day or packing for lunch.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dip freezes beautifully. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, warm the dip gently in the microwave or oven until it’s heated through and oozing with cheesy, spicy goodness again. Stir halfway through for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Cook and shred your own chicken breasts or thighs, then use them just like the rotisserie chicken. The convenience of rotisserie makes it quick, but fresh chicken works just as well for the Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe.
Is the blue cheese really necessary?
Not at all. Blue cheese is optional and adds a distinctive tangy flavor, but if you’re not a fan, feel free to leave it out. The dip is still insanely tasty without it.
How spicy is this dip?
This dip has a noticeable kick from Frank’s Red Hot sauce, but it’s not overpowering. You can always adjust the amount of hot sauce to make it milder or hotter to suit your preference.
Can I make this dip vegan or dairy-free?
While this classic recipe relies heavily on dairy, you could experiment with vegan cream cheese, dairy-free ranch, and plant-based cheeses as substitutes, but the texture and flavor will be different. It’s worth trying if you have dietary restrictions!
What’s the best way to serve this dip at a party?
Serve it warm in a pretty baking dish alongside an assortment of dippers like chips, crudités, and crackers. Keep extra sauce or ranch dressing nearby for those who want to mellow the heat.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe is a guaranteed hit every time you bring it to the table. Its creamy texture, spicy tang, and cheesy goodness create a perfect harmony that’s downright addictive. Give this recipe a try and prepare to have your new favorite dip—it’s one I promise you’ll make again and again!
Print
Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring shredded chicken mixed with cream cheese, Frank’s Red Hot sauce, ranch dressing, and cheddar cheese. Baked to bubbly perfection and topped with blue cheese and green onions, it’s perfect for game days, parties, or casual get-togethers served with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened (Softened for easier mixing.)
- 1 cup Frank’s Red Hot sauce (Adjust the amount based on spice preference.)
- ¾ cup ranch dressing (Regular or lighter version can be used.)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- 2 each green onions, chopped (Used for garnish.)
- As needed tortilla chips, veggies, or crackers (For dipping.)
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready when your dip mixture is assembled.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Hot Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with Frank’s Red Hot sauce. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended, providing the spicy base for the dip.
- Add Ranch Dressing: Stir in ranch dressing until fully combined, which adds creaminess and tang to balance the heat.
- Combine Chicken and Cheese: Fold in the shredded cooked chicken, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the chopped green onions. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors and ingredients throughout the dip.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the dip mixture evenly into a baking dish, ensuring a uniform layer for even cooking.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled blue cheese on top if using. These toppings will melt and create a delicious cheesy crust.
- Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the dip is hot and bubbly, signaling it is thoroughly heated.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dip from the oven and garnish with the remaining green onions for freshness and color. Serve warm with tortilla chips, veggie sticks, or crackers for dipping and enjoying immediately.
Notes
- For convenience, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken.
- Adjust the amount of Frank’s Red Hot sauce to your spice preference.
- Blue cheese is optional; omit if you dislike strong cheeses.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently before serving again.
