Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip is the perfect game day or party snack that’s creamy, spicy, and packed with shredded chicken, melted cheese, and that classic buffalo sauce kick. It’s warm, gooey, and full of flavor, making it irresistible for any crowd.
I love how easy it is to throw together in the crock pot and then just let it do its thing while I get everything else ready. The dip is always a huge hit, and I find myself sneaking little tastes before anyone else gets to it. The mix of hot sauce, cream cheese, and melted cheddar creates that amazing tangy but smooth texture that everyone seems to crave.
My favorite way to serve this dip is with crispy celery sticks and crunchy tortilla chips on the side for dipping. It’s fun to snack on while watching the game or chatting with friends. If you like things extra cheesy, adding a little extra shredded cheese on top near the end of cooking makes it even better. This dip always brings people together, and I’m pretty sure it’s one of those recipes you’ll want to keep on hand for any get-together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken makes this dip easy and quick. If you don’t have rotisserie, cooked chicken breasts or thighs, shredded by hand or mixer, work too. For a vegetarian twist, shredded jackfruit can replace chicken.
Cream Cheese: It gives the dip its creamy base. Soften it before mixing to avoid lumps. You can try Neufchâtel cheese for fewer calories or even a dairy-free cream cheese if you want to keep it vegan.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: This is where the heat and flavor come from. Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice. You can adjust the amount or swap for a milder hot sauce if you prefer less spice.
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Adds coolness and balance to the heat. Homemade or store-bought both work well. If blue cheese isn’t your thing, ranch is a great alternative, and vice versa.
Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese: These melt beautifully for gooey texture and add sharp and mild flavors. Feel free to use pepper jack for a little extra kick or swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack for creaminess.
How Do You Get This Dip Smooth and Perfectly Melted in the Crock Pot?
The trick to smooth buffalo chicken dip is starting with softened cream cheese and stirring well before heating. Gently mixing all ingredients ensures an even blend.
- Use softened (not cold) cream cheese so it melts easily without lumps.
- Stir the mix before putting it in the crock pot for an even texture.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring once or twice during cooking to prevent sticking and help everything melt evenly.
- Keep the crock pot covered as much as possible to hold heat and moisture.
- Before serving, give the dip a good stir to combine melted cheese and sauce fully for that creamy texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker or crock pot – I use mine because it keeps the dip warm and ready to serve all party long.
- Mixing bowl – helps you combine the ingredients easily before transferring to the crock pot.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate amounts of sauce, cheese, and dressing.
- Spatula or spoon – perfect for stirring and mixing everything smoothly during cooking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add blue cheese crumbles: Mix some in for extra tang or sprinkle on top before serving if you love blue cheese.
- Include chopped celery or bell peppers: Stir in or serve alongside for crunch and freshness.
- Use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese: Swap cheeses for different melt, flavor, and a bit of spice.
- Make it milder or spicier: Adjust the buffalo sauce amount or add a dash of cayenne pepper for more heat.
Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Celery sticks and crackers, for serving
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe requires about 10 minutes to prepare and mix the ingredients, plus 2 to 3 hours of cooking time on low in the crock pot. After cooking, you can keep the dip warm for as long as you like while serving.
How to Make It – Step by Step:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, ranch or blue cheese dressing, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Stir everything together well until fully mixed.
2. Cook in the Crock Pot:
Transfer the mixture into your crock pot or slow cooker. Cover it with the lid and cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours. Make sure to stir the dip once or twice during cooking to help the ingredients melt evenly and blend together smoothly.
3. Serve and Enjoy:
When the dip is hot and bubbly, give it a good stir. If you like, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch. Serve the dip warm with celery sticks, crackers, or tortilla chips for dipping. Keep the crock pot on the warm setting to keep your dip nice and gooey while you enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw it before mixing into the dip. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. Pat the chicken dry to avoid extra moisture in the dip.
Can I Prepare This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can mix all the ingredients and refrigerate the dip for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready, transfer it to the crock pot and cook as usual, adding a little extra time if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth and creamy.
What Are Some Good Dippers to Serve With Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Celery sticks, tortilla chips, crackers, and sliced bell peppers are all great options. They add crunch and are perfect for scooping up the creamy, spicy dip!