Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings together the spicy kick of buffalo sauce and the creamy richness of cheese and chicken. This dish is perfect for game days, parties, or a cozy night in. Made with simple ingredients, it’s easy to throw together and allows you more time to enjoy with your guests. The slow cooker does all the work, melding flavors together beautifully for a dip that’s sure to satisfy.
Why We Love This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
This buffalo chicken dip is loved by many for its unbeatable combination of flavors and creamy texture. The ease of preparation in a crockpot makes it accessible for anyone, regardless of cooking skill. You can adjust the heat level by modifying the amount of buffalo sauce, making it versatile for any crowd. You also get the benefit of using rotisserie chicken, ensuring the meat is tender and cooked to perfection. Pairing it with your favorite dippers creates a delicious, hands-on appetizers experience that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients about Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works wonderfully)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened and cubed)
- 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Buffalo sauce (adjust to taste for heat level)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
These ingredients come together to create a dip that is beyond delicious. The balance of heat, creaminess, and savory flavors will keep you coming back for more.
How to Make Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip Directions
Getting this delectable dip ready is quite simple. To begin, shred your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using a rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and focus on the tender white and dark meat that will shred easily.
Once you have your chicken ready, spray your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or consider using a slow cooker liner for a hassle-free cleanup. Place the cubed cream cheese at the bottom of the cooker, spreading it out evenly for the best melting results.
Next, pour the Frank’s RedHot Buffalo sauce over the cream cheese. This will infuse the dip with zesty flavor that complements the creamy ingredients beautifully. Follow this by adding in the ranch dressing and sour cream. Additionally, sprinkle in the garlic powder and onion powder, which will enhance the dip’s flavor profile.
Toss in your shredded chicken, ensuring to add half of the shredded cheddar cheese right now. Stir gently to combine all the components so that each piece of chicken is well-coated in the creamy mixture. This will create a uniform texture, ensuring every bite is delicious.
Once everything is in the slow cooker, cover it and cook on LOW for 2 hours, or use the HIGH setting for 1 hour. Stir the dip halfway through the cooking time to guarantee even heating and proper melting. As the cooking time nears completion, the aromas will be heavenly.
About 15 minutes before you plan to serve, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top along with the optional blue cheese crumbles. Pop the lid back on to allow the cheese to melt entirely, creating an irresistibly cheesy top layer.
Finally, you can garnish your dip with sliced green onions for that extra finishing touch. This not only adds a nice color but also a mild oniony crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich dip.
How to Serve Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
The joy of Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip is in the serving. You can really let your creativity shine. Begin by preparing a variety of dippers to accompany your dip. Classic choices include tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, and pita chips, but feel free to explore! Sliced bell peppers or even crackers can complement the dish well.
When you’re ready to serve, use a large spoon to scoop out some of the dip into a bowl for easy access. This way, your guests can help themselves and dive into that creamy, spicy goodness. Offering a mix of textures will enhance the experience and make it more fun for everyone.
Consider placing the slow cooker right on the table if there’s enough room. This allows easy access and keeps the dip warm throughout the event. Just remember to turn the settings to warm if your slow cooker has that option.
Expert Tips: Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
To ensure your Buffalo Chicken Dip turns out spectacular every time, here are some expert tips you should keep in mind:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality buffalo sauce, fresh ingredients, and, if possible, homemade ranch dressing. This elevates the overall taste of the dish.
- Adjust the Heat: Depending on your personal preference for spiciness, you may want to start with less buffalo sauce. You can always add more before serving if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- Stirring Is Key: Remember to stir the dip halfway through cooking. This not only mixes the ingredients but helps in even heating, which is crucial in achieving that perfect creamy texture.
- Cheese Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix up your cheeses. You can try pepper jack cheese for an extra kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
- Garnish Generously: The finishing garnish of green onions not only makes your dish look appetizing but also adds a fresh taste that contrasts with the richness of the dip.
- Portion Control: If you’re serving for a large crowd, consider doubling the recipe. There’s nothing worse than running out of this tasty dip at a party!
How to Store Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare!), storing your dip is easy. Allow it to cool down slightly before transferring it to an airtight container. Make sure to store it in the refrigerator, where it can last for about 3 to 4 days.
When ready to enjoy leftovers, you can reheat the dip in a microwave-safe container or back in the crockpot. Just add a splash of milk or cream if it seems too thick after refrigeration and stir until heated through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the dip before serving. Freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and follow the reheating steps mentioned above.
Variation of Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
While the classic recipe is fantastic on its own, you can explore several variations to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- Vegetarian Option: You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or shredded cauliflower to create a meatless alternative. Increase the seasoning to compensate for the flavor loss from the chicken.
- Spicier Kick: To turn up the heat, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the mixture. This will bring an extra layer of spice that many buffalo sauce lovers crave.
- Mexican Twist: Incorporate diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn to create a southwestern-inspired dip. Serve it with tortilla chips for a fun fusion!
- Cheeseburger Style: Add crumbled cooked ground beef or turkey and a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a cheeseburger-inspired dip. Top it off with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes for freshness.
- Different Cheese Blend: Mix in cream cheese alternatives like Greek yogurt to add protein or use a blend of cheeses like gouda and pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
FAQ
What is Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy and spicy appetizer made with shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, salsa, and various cheeses, cooked slowly in a crockpot.
How long does it take to make Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip?
It takes about 1 hour on HIGH or 2 hours on LOW in the crockpot, plus additional time for preparation before cooking begins.
Can I adjust the heat level in my Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to suit your spice preference, making it milder or spicier as you like.
What are the best dippers for Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, and pita chips are excellent choices. You can also try sliced bell peppers or crackers for variety.
How do I store leftover Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it, transferring it to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients beforehand and store them separately in the fridge. Combine and cook them in the crockpot when you’re ready to serve.
Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works wonderfully) Shred into bite-sized pieces.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened and cubed) Ensure it's softened for easy mixing.
- 1/2 cup Frank's RedHot Buffalo sauce Adjust to taste for heat level.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing Choose your favorite brand.
- 1/2 cup sour cream Adds creaminess.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided) Reserve half for topping.
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese Optional for extra flavor.
- 2 pcs green onions (thinly sliced) For garnish.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder Enhances flavor.
- 1/4 tsp onion powder Gives a savory note.
Instructions
Preparation
- Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. If using a rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and focus on the tender white and dark meat.
- Spray the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or line it with a slow cooker liner.
- Place the cubed cream cheese into the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
- Pour the Frank's RedHot Buffalo sauce over the cream cheese.
- Add the ranch dressing and sour cream to the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle in the garlic powder and onion powder.
Cooking
- Add the shredded chicken and half of the cheddar cheese to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 2 hours or on HIGH for 1 hour, stirring halfway through.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and optional blue cheese crumbles on top.
- Cover again to allow the cheese to melt.
Serving
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve with a variety of dippers like tortilla chips, celery, or pita chips.
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