Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe – Easy, Delicious!
Ever wondered why Frank’s buffalo chicken dip is so popular?
This homemade dip is loved for its spicy, creamy, and savory taste. It’s a hit at parties, game days, and just for fun. It’s made with just five ingredients: shredded chicken, cream cheese, Frank’s RedHot® Original Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce, ranch dressing, and cheddar cheese.
The dip serves about eight people and bakes at 350°F for 20 minutes. It’s quick and easy to make. You can also make it in a slow cooker or air fryer for different cooking methods. Each serving has 302 calories, with 11 grams of protein and 27 grams of fat.
Try Frank’s buffalo chicken dip recipe for a tasty and affordable dish. It’s a favorite among home cooks on Allrecipes. It’s perfect for both experienced and new cooks, offering a mix of heat and creaminess that everyone enjoys!
Table of Contents
Introduction to Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo Chicken Dip is a favorite in American cuisine. It’s loved for its creamy texture and spicy kick. It’s perfect for parties or game-day snacks.
Preparing an easy buffalo chicken dip takes under 20 minutes. Then, it cooks in the oven for 30 minutes. This makes the total time less than an hour. It only needs five ingredients, making it simple yet delicious.
The Popularity of Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo Chicken Dip comes from Buffalo, New York. It’s now a favorite in many homes across the U.S. The mix of cheese, chicken, and hot sauce makes it irresistible.
The best recipes balance flavors. They combine the heat of hot sauce with the richness of cheese.
Why Use Frank’s RedHot Sauce?
Frank’s RedHot Sauce is a top pick for buffalo chicken dip. It offers the right mix of heat and flavor. This makes it key for a true taste.
Frank’s RedHot adds spice and depth of flavor. It ensures every bite of the dip is satisfying.
Essential Ingredients for the Dip
To make a tasty spicy buffalo chicken dip or creamy buffalo chicken dip, start with the essential ingredients. Each part adds to the dip’s taste and feel. Here’s a detailed list of what you need and why.
Shredded Cooked Chicken
The dip’s base is the chicken. You can use 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, boiled and shredded. Or, you can use four (12.5-ounce) cans of cooked chicken or 5 to 6 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken. Each choice makes the dish protein-rich and the texture blends well with other ingredients.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is key for a creamy dip. Use 16 ounces of cream cheese at room temperature. It gives the dip a rich texture that’s perfect for a creamy buffalo chicken dip.
Frank’s RedHot® Original Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce
The hot sauce adds a tangy and spicy kick. A 12-ounce bottle of Frank’s RedHot® Original Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce is best. You can adjust the amount from ¼ to ½ cup to get the right buffalo flavor.
Ranch Dressing
Ranch dressing balances the spicy flavors. Use a 16-ounce bottle, or try blue cheese dressing if you like. The ranch’s creamy texture makes the dip smooth.
- 6 ounces of shredded Monterey Jack cheese (approximately 1½ cups)
- 6 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese (approximately 1½ cups)
These cheeses are vital for the dip’s cheesy goodness. When baked at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes, they melt and bubble, topping the dip.
This mix of ingredients makes both spicy and creamy buffalo chicken dips a hit. They offer a great mix of flavors and textures, perfect for any event.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Making a quick buffalo chicken dip is easy and fun. This guide is for everyone, whether you’re a pro in the kitchen or just starting out. You’ll get a delicious dip every time you follow these steps.
Mixing the Ingredients
First, get all your ingredients ready. You’ll need 1 pound of shredded cooked chicken, 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of sour cream, ½ cup of buffalo sauce, and 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. In a big bowl, mix the chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, and buffalo sauce until smooth.
Then, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This makes sure every bite is full of flavor.
Baking Instructions
Heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Put the mix in an 8×8 inch baking dish and smooth it out. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Be careful when taking it out of the oven because it will be hot.
Alternative Cooking Methods
For a quicker dip, try the microwave or skillet. For the microwave, put the mix in a safe dish, cover it, and heat on high for 5 minutes, stirring halfway. Make sure the cheese is melted and the dip is even.
For the stovetop, use a big skillet over medium heat. Add the mix and stir often until it’s hot and the cheese is melted, about 10 minutes.
Here’s a quick table to help you remember how to cook your dip:
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven Baking | 350°F | 15-20 minutes | Until cheese is golden and bubbly |
| Microwave | High | 5 minutes | Stir halfway through |
| Stovetop (Skillet) | Medium | 10 minutes | Stir frequently |
Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip is a favorite among many. To make your homemade version stand out, follow these expert tips. Adjust the heat, get the right consistency, and pick the best cheese. This way, your dip will be the best you’ve ever had.
Adjusting the Heat Level
To change the spice level of your dip, tweak the Frank’s RedHot Sauce amount. For a milder taste, use less hot sauce and more ranch dressing. For more heat, add more sauce or a bit of cayenne pepper.
Getting the Right Consistency
The perfect buffalo chicken dip is creamy and smooth. Soften your cream cheese before mixing to avoid lumps. This ensures a smooth texture.
If you like a chunkier dip, add more shredded chicken or chopped green onions. These tweaks help balance creaminess and texture. For a detailed recipe, check out this 5-ingredient buffalo chicken dip recipe.
Choosing the Best Cheese
The type of cheese you choose greatly affects your dip’s flavor and appeal. Mix mozzarella and cheddar for the best taste. Mozzarella melts well, while cheddar adds a sharpness.
Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt. Mix half the cheese into the dip and sprinkle the rest on top before baking. This will give you a bubbly, golden finish. Follow these tips to make a dip that will wow your guests.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Preparing Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip can be done in many ways, making it easy and quick. You can use traditional baking, slow cookers, or Instant Pots. Each method has its own benefits and requires following specific steps to get the dip just right.
- Slow Cooker Method: The slow cooker is great for those who want to cook without watching. Just mix everything together, set it on low for 1-2 hours, and wait for it to get hot and bubbly. It’s a simple way to make buffalo chicken dip without much effort.
- Instant Pot Method: If you’re in a hurry, the Instant Pot is your best friend. If you’re using raw chicken, cook it on Manual High for 10 minutes. If it’s already cooked, just mix everything together and let the pressure build. This way, you save a lot of time.
- Microwave Method: For the fastest buffalo chicken dip, try the microwave. Put the ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 5 minutes, stirring halfway. It’s perfect for when you’re in a rush.
No matter which method you choose, making sure the dip is the right consistency and flavor is key. Baking at 350°F for 18-20 minutes works well for the oven. But, each method ensures your buffalo chicken dip is a crowd-pleaser, fitting your schedule and kitchen setup.
Making the Dip in a Slow Cooker
Making the best buffalo chicken dip is easy with a slow cooker. It keeps the dip warm and gooey, perfect for any event. This method makes your dip delicious with little effort.
Ingredients and Preparation
To make this tasty buffalo chicken dip, you’ll need:
- 2 cans of 12.5 ounces of canned chicken (25 ounces total)
- 8 ounces of cream cheese
- 1/3 cup of ranch dressing (approximately 2.67 ounces)
- 3/4 cup of Frank’s buffalo sauce (approximately 6 ounces)
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (approximately 8 ounces)
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese
Just mix all the ingredients together in the slow cooker. Make sure the cream cheese is soft for easy mixing.
Cooking Times and Temperatures
For the best results, follow these cooking times and temperatures. Use a 3-quart slow cooker on LOW for 1.5 to 2 hours. A 6-quart slow cooker cooks it in 1 to 1.5 hours on LOW. Stir the dip now and then to cook evenly and stay creamy.
For faster cooking, use HIGH on your slow cooker. It cooks in about 1 hour, stirring every 20 minutes.
Tips for Using a Slow Cooker
Here are some tips for the best buffalo chicken dip:
- Layer the Ingredients: Start with cream cheese at the bottom, then chicken, ranch, and buffalo sauce. Finish with shredded cheese.
- Avoid Overcooking: Don’t cook too long to avoid a grainy texture. Stir often.
- Serve Warm: Keep the dip warm on the ‘warm’ setting after cooking.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Follow these slow cooker tips to make your buffalo chicken dip. It’s perfect for parties or family snacks, and it’s always a hit.
Instant Pot Options
Making a quick buffalo chicken dip is now easier with the Instant Pot. This kitchen tool makes the process fast, giving you a tasty dip in no time. It’s perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and quick recipes.
The Instant Pot cuts down the prep time to just 15 minutes. With only 8 ingredients, this dip is both quick and easy to make:
- 1/2 cup Chicken broth
- 3/4 cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce
- 20 ounces Cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 8 ounces Cream cheese
- 1 cup Ranch dressing
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Optional toppings: 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles and 2 tablespoons scallions
Cooking chicken in the Instant Pot takes just 12 minutes. Then, a 5-minute natural pressure release follows. For the dip, cook on HIGH pressure for 2 minutes and quick release. This method ensures the flavors are locked in, making the dip creamy and spicy.
Each serving of this dip is 1/4 cup. It has 164 kcal, 13.4 g of fat, 11.6 g of protein, and 2 g of carbs.
For reheating, you can use:
- Instant Pot on the Saute setting
- Microwave for 1-2 minutes
- Oven at 350°F for 10 minutes
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Or, freeze for up to three months. Always keep the dip refrigerated to avoid spoilage.
This dish is great with many sides. Try it with carrot, celery, and cucumber sticks, or with chips, crackers, or bread.
Serving Suggestions
Creepy buffalo chicken dip is a hit at any event. It’s great as an appetizer or a party favorite. Here are some ideas to make your dip with Frank’s RedHot even better.
Best Sides to Pair With
Choosing the right sides can make your dip even more delicious. Here are some classic and new options:
- Celery Sticks: They add a nice crunch to the creamy dip.
- Carrot Sticks: Another fresh option that goes well with the spicy dip.
- Tortilla Chips: A classic choice for a crunchy snack.
- Pretzel Chips: Great for a salty, crunchy contrast.
- Crackers: Different types of crackers can add interesting textures and flavors.
Creative Serving Ideas
Want to make your dip the main attraction? Try these creative ideas:
- Stuffed Baguettes: Fill a baguette with the dip, then slice it for easy serving.
- Buffalo Chicken Wraps: Use the dip as a filling in wraps with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados.
- Baked Potato Topping: Top baked potatoes with the dip for a tasty twist.
- Buffalo Chicken Pizza: Spread the dip on a pizza crust, add extra cheese, and bake for a tasty pizza.
- Mini Dip Cups: Serve the dip in individual cups with various veggies and chips for a personal touch.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | 16 ounces (2 bricks) |
| Buffalo Wing Sauce | ½ cup |
| Ranch Dressing | ⅔ cup |
| Shredded Mozzarella Cheese | 1.5 cups |
| Shredded Chicken | 1.5-2 cups |
These ideas will help you enjoy your creamy buffalo chicken dip to the fullest. You’ll impress your guests and make their taste buds happy.
How to Store Leftovers
Storing leftovers properly is crucial for keeping your buffalo chicken dip fresh and safe. Here are some tips for refrigerating and reheating your easy buffalo chicken dip. This way, it will taste great the second time around.
Refrigeration Tips
After it cools, put the leftover dip in an airtight container. This prevents contamination and keeps the flavors fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure the fridge stays below 40°F to stop bacteria from growing.
To freeze the dip, use a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Cool the dip for about 30 minutes before freezing. This helps keep the texture right and prevents ice crystals. Thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to eat it.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating your leftover dip right is key to keeping its taste and texture. For small amounts, the microwave is best. Heat it in 30-second bursts, stirring between each interval, until it’s 165°F inside.
For bigger portions, baking is better. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly. This method keeps the dip creamy and flavorful.
Healthier Variations of the Dip
It’s easy to make a healthier version of buffalo chicken dip without losing its great taste. Whether you’re watching your calories or eating plant-based, these options let you enjoy your favorite flavors.
Low-Fat Options
Want a healthy buffalo chicken dip? Try some lighter ingredients. Use nonfat Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for creaminess without the fat. Choose cottage cheese over regular cheese and go for shredded chicken breasts, which are leaner. Adding chopped green onions boosts flavor without extra calories.
Here’s a quick list of ingredient swaps:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
- ½ cup small curd cottage cheese
- 1 cup nonfat cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions and spices (garlic powder, onion powder)
This mix cuts down on fat but keeps the dip protein-rich, making it filling.
Vegan Buffalo Chicken Dip
For a plant-based diet, try a vegan buffalo chicken dip. Use shredded jackfruit instead of chicken. Swap dairy for vegan cream cheese and Greek yogurt. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy taste.
- 2 cups shredded jackfruit
- ½ cup vegan buffalo sauce
- 1 cup dairy-free Greek yogurt
- ½ cup vegan cream cheese
- ½ cup nutritional yeast
- 1 cup shredded vegan cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions and spices
Both the low-fat and vegan dips bake at 400°F for 16-20 minutes. They turn out great every time.
With these healthier choices, you can still enjoy buffalo chicken dip, no matter your diet!
Buffalo Chicken Dip for Kids
Making buffalo chicken dip for kids is easy. Just a few tweaks can make it perfect for little ones. It keeps the creamy, savory taste but cuts down on spice.
Begin by cutting the hot sauce in half. Use only 3 ounces instead of 12. This keeps the flavor exciting but not too spicy for kids.
Adding more cheese makes it even better. Mix 12 ounces of Monterey Jack and mild cheddar. Then, add 16 ounces of cream cheese for a smooth, creamy dip.
Here’s a table to help you remember the changes:
| Ingredient | Standard Recipe | Kid-Friendly Adjustments |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken (cooked and shredded) | 1 lb or 2 cans | 1 lb or 2 cans |
| Hot Sauce | 12 oz | 3 oz |
| Cream Cheese | 16 oz | 16 oz |
| Ranch Dressing | 16 oz | 16 oz |
| Shredded Cheese | 12 oz (6 oz Monterey Jack, 6 oz Cheddar) | 12 oz (6 oz Monterey Jack, 6 oz Cheddar) |
Bake the dip at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes. This makes it bubbly and slightly browned. Kids love the look of it.
Offer it with fun dippers like carrot sticks, celery, or mild crackers. It’s interactive and healthy.
With these changes, your buffalo chicken dip will be a hit. It’s loved by kids and adults alike at family gatherings.
Using Different Types of Chicken
Choosing the right chicken can make your buffalo chicken dip taste better and feel creamier. Here’s a guide to help you pick between rotisserie chicken, canned chicken, or freshly cooked chicken.
Rotisserie Chicken
Rotisserie chicken is a top pick for buffalo chicken dip. It’s already cooked, saving you time. It also adds a deep, roasted flavor to the dip.
The chicken’s moist texture works well with the creamy ingredients like sour cream and cream cheese. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the other ingredients. It’s a great choice for those who want ease without losing flavor.
Canned Chicken
Canned chicken is perfect for those in a hurry. It’s pre-cooked and ready to use, needing only a quick shred. It might not have the rich flavor of rotisserie or fresh chicken, but it’s quick and easy.
Consider adding extra spices like smoked paprika and garlic powder to boost the flavor. You’ll need two 5-ounce cans of chicken for your dip.
Freshly Cooked Chicken
If you want the best flavor and freshness, go for freshly cooked chicken. You can poach, bake, or grill it, making sure it’s at least 145°F for safety. Shred the chicken and mix it into your dip.
Freshly cooked chicken lets you control the seasoning. It’s best to use 3 cups of shredded chicken, about 1 ½ pounds, for a rich dip.
Each chicken type has its own benefits. Canned chicken is quick, rotisserie chicken is flavorful, and fresh chicken is versatile. Your choice depends on your time and taste preferences.
Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
Looking for the best Frank’s buffalo chicken dip recipe? You’re in the right spot. This guide will show you how to make a tasty homemade dip that everyone will love.
It only takes 20 minutes to prepare, with just five key ingredients. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, this dip is always a winner.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans of chunk chicken, drained
- 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot® Original Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a medium skillet, heat the chicken and hot sauce until heated through.
- Stir in the cream cheese and ranch dressing until smooth and well combined.
- Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the dip is hot and bubbly.
Feel free to try different chicken types, like rotisserie or fresh. You can also use other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby-Jack for a unique taste.
For a slow cooker, mix all ingredients and cook on Low for 2 hours. An air fryer works too, cooking at 350°F for about 16 minutes.
Nutritional information per serving (6 servings):
| Calories | 336 kcal |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Cholesterol | 87 mg |
| Sodium | 463 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Protein | 17 g |
Storing your homemade buffalo chicken dip is simple. It keeps in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months, though the texture might change when reheated.
Enjoy Frank’s buffalo chicken dip with your favorite snacks like celery sticks, corn chips, or tortilla chips. It’s a crowd-pleaser at any event!
Conclusion
Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip is a crowd-pleaser with bold flavors and a creamy texture. It’s a favorite at gatherings. With just a few ingredients, it offers the best buffalo chicken dip experience.
Those who love spicy food will enjoy this dish. You can adjust the heat level by changing the hot sauce amount.
The recipe is simple, making it even more appealing. It takes only 10 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to cook at 350°F. You can serve it in just 35 minutes.
It’s great for last-minute or planned events. You can serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables. It suits any taste.
The dip is also versatile for storage and reheating. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge or freezer. This ensures you always have it ready.
Whether it’s for a game day party or a casual hangout, Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip is a hit. Its balanced spice and creaminess make it irresistible. Don’t miss out on making it for your next gathering. It will quickly become a favorite among your guests.
