As the fragrant aroma of melting cheese and spicy buffalo sauce wafted through my kitchen, I knew I was in for a treat. This Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines warmth and zest, perfect for game days or casual gatherings. What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together in just one pan, making prep and clean-up a breeze. You can easily customize the spiciness to suit everyone’s taste buds, and it pairs beautifully with crunchy tortilla chips or fresh celery sticks. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply indulging in a cozy night in, this dip is sure to become your go-to snack. Curious how to whip up this cheesy delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Will You Love This Dip?
Simplicity: This Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip is easy to whip up, requiring just one pan for cooking and serving.
Bold Flavor: The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy cheeses creates an irresistible flavor explosion that your guests won’t forget.
Customizable Spiciness: Adjust the heat level to your preference—add more hot sauce for a kick, or tone it down for the kids.
Vegetable Pairing: Serve it alongside crunchy veggies or chips for a perfect balance, making it an ideal appetizer.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s game day or a friendly gathering, this dip is a guaranteed hit that will satisfy everyone’s cravings! For a fun twist, don’t forget to check out my Lazy Chicken Parmesan for another tasty recipe!
Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip Ingredients
• Ready to make this crowd-pleaser?
For the Dip
- Butter – Adds richness and flavor to the dip; olive oil can be used for a lighter option.
- Onion – Provides a savory base with natural sweetness; shallots work well for a milder flavor.
- Garlic – Enhances the dip’s savory aroma and taste; fresh garlic is preferred, but dried will suffice.
- Cooked Shredded Chicken – Offers texture and heartiness; rotisserie chicken is convenient, though canned chicken works too.
- Hot Sauce – The primary flavoring ingredient that delivers heat; Frank’s RedHot is recommended for the perfect kick.
- Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess to the dip; use plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
- Sour Cream – Contributes tanginess; Greek yogurt can serve as a healthier substitute.
- Ranch Dressing – Balances flavors; consider homemade ranch or yogurt dressing for a fresh twist.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Provides sharpness and gooey texture; Monterey Jack is a milder substitute.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Adds stretchiness and creaminess; try an Italian blend for extra flavor.
- Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor without adding heat; freshly cracked is best for taste.
- Smoked Paprika – Adds depth and a hint of smokiness; feel free to omit for a simpler taste.
- Chives/Green Onions – Fresh garnish that adds brightness; parsley can substitute or omit if necessary.
For Serving
- Tortilla Chips – Perfect for dipping into the creamy concoction.
- Celery Sticks – A crisp, healthy option to balance the richness.
- Baguette Slices – Toasted slices add a wonderful crunch and catch every bit of the dip.
This Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip is set to be the star of your next gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that when you bake your Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip, it cooks evenly and achieves that bubbly, golden-top finish. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and equipment, including a large oven-safe skillet, to streamline your cooking process.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In your large oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat for about 2 minutes until it’s fully melted and starting to bubble. Once melted, add in the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Follow by adding minced garlic, sautéing for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. This will create a savory base for your dip.
Step 3: Incorporate the Chicken and Sauce
Stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken into the skillet, ensuring that every piece gets coated with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in ¾ cup of hot sauce, preferably Frank’s RedHot, and stir until the chicken is well coated. At this point, the aroma of the spicy buffalo sauce will fill your kitchen, signaling that you’re on the right track!
Step 4: Add the Creamy Ingredients
Now, it’s time to make your dip creamy! Add 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of sour cream, and ½ cup of ranch dressing to the skillet. Stir continuously for about 3–4 minutes until everything blends together smoothly. Make sure there are no lumps of cream cheese for a velvety texture in your Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip.
Step 5: Mix in the Cheeses and Seasoning
Sprinkle in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese while stirring until they melt into the creamy mixture. Season the dip with freshly cracked black pepper and ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika to elevate its flavor profile. This combination will help create that deliciously gooey texture everyone loves.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Once everything is mixed well, spread the dip evenly in the skillet. Reserve about ½ cup of the mixed shredded cheese for topping, then sprinkle it generously over the dip. Bake in your preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it, as you want that perfect cheesy crust!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
After baking, carefully remove the skillet from the oven and let the dip sit for a couple of minutes. Garnish your Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip with chopped chives or green onions for a fresh touch. Serve it hot with tortilla chips, crunchy celery sticks, or toasted baguette slices for the ultimate appetizer experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire dip up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial cooking steps and then covering the skillet with plastic wrap or a lid before refrigerating. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly and golden. To maintain quality, ensure the cream cheese is well-blended to avoid lumps, and add a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top right before baking for that coveted gooey texture. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected gatherings!
What to Serve with Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip
This cheesy, spicy delight deserves a well-rounded meal experience that tantalizes your taste buds in every bite.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes provide a comforting base, balancing the heat of the dip with their rich creaminess.
- Crunchy Veggie Platter: Fresh carrot sticks, bell pepper slices, and cherry tomatoes offer a refreshing crunch that contrasts the dip’s gooey texture.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks with delightful garlic flavor are perfect for scooping up every last bit of that buffalo goodness.
- Pickle Chips: The tangy crunch of pickles adds a delightful contrast to the flavors, making them a savory-sweet sidekick to your spicy dip.
- Coleslaw: A crisp and tangy slaw can add a refreshing bite to your spread, complementing the richness of the buffalo chicken dip.
- Craft Beer: A light or hoppy beer pairs beautifully, cutting through the heat while enhancing the overall flavor experience.
- Apple Crisp: Finish off your meal with a warm apple crisp for a sweet contrast to the savory dip, rounding out a delightful gathering.
Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip Variations
Feel free to get creative with your dip and explore exciting twists that will satisfy everyone’s cravings!
Heat Level: Adjust the spice by using different hot sauces like habanero or sriracha for a fiery flavor. A little heat goes a long way!
Cheese Changes: Swap in Pepper Jack cheese for an extra kick, or try crumbled blue cheese for that classic buffalo flavor. It adds a delightful tang!
Veggie Boost: Stir in diced bell peppers or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. Not only do they add flavor, but they also create a heartier dip.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace cream cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives to make this dish suitable for lactose-intolerant friends. They won’t even miss the dairy!
Baked Potato Skins: For a unique serving option, spoon the dip onto halved baked potato skins, then bake until everything is heated through and bubbly. A fun twist for your appetizer table!
Add Crunch: Toss in some crispy bacon bits for an irresistible smoky crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy dip. Who can resist bacon?
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness. It elevates the flavor and adds a beautiful presentation.
Tangy Twist: Add a splash of lemon juice or sprinkle some lemon zest on top before serving for a bright, zesty finish that cuts through the richness.
Transform your hot buffalo chicken dip into something incredible! And if you’re feeling adventurous, consider using the base for uplifting dishes like Korean Fire Chicken next time!
Expert Tips for Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip
- Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing; it prevents lumps in your dip.
- Make Ahead: Prepare your dip in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours; just bake it when you’re ready to serve!
- Adjust Heat: Customize the spiciness by controlling the amount of hot sauce. Consider adding cayenne pepper for extra kick!
- Stay Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ranch dressing and chips to accommodate guests with dietary restrictions.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses; add Pepper Jack for an extra spicy twist or switch to dairy-free options for a lighter dip.
How to Store and Freeze Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip
- Fridge: Keep any leftover dip in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will maintain its creamy texture and bold flavors.
- Freezer: You can freeze the dip for up to 2 months. Just let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s sealed tightly.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the dip in advance and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly and pop it in the oven when ready to enjoy!
Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting cooked shredded chicken?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using rotisserie chicken as it’s tender and already seasoned. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken breasts, ensure they’re juicy and not dry. A quick check is to look for meat that has a nice sheen without being overly dry or stringy.
How should I store leftover Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip?
To keep your dip fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps retain its creamy texture and flavors. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving again to mix everything well!
Can I freeze Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip, and how?
Very! You can absolutely freeze the dip for up to 2 months. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Be sure to seal it tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until it’s hot and bubbly.
What if my dip turns out too thick or too thin?
No worries! If your dip is too thick after mixing, you can add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up; stir until you achieve the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, simply let it cook a little longer on the stovetop to thicken, or add more cream cheese to reach that perfect creamy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you have guests with allergies or dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free ranch dressing and chips to accommodate those who are gluten-sensitive. You can also make this dip dairy-free by swapping the cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives. Always check the labels for hidden allergens to be safe!
Irresistibly Cheesy Hot Buffalo Chicken Skillet Dip Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
- Stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and coat with the sautéed onions and garlic.
- Pour in ¾ cup of hot sauce and stir until the chicken is coated.
- Add 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of sour cream, and ½ cup of ranch dressing.
- Stir continuously for 3–4 minutes until smooth.
- Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Season with black pepper and ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika.
- Spread the dip evenly in the skillet and reserve ½ cup of mixed cheese for topping.
- Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the dip and bake for 15–20 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped chives or green onions before serving.