Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Dip: Easy Crock Pot Recipe to Try
Introduction
Are you ready to elevate your snack game? Look no further than the irresistible Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Dip! This crowd-pleasing appetizer combines the bold flavors of buffalo sauce with the creamy indulgence of cheese, creating a mouthwatering dip that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply craving a delicious snack, this easy-to-make dip will have everyone coming back for more.
Why is it Perfect for You?
This game day dip is the ultimate party appetizer that ticks all the boxes:
◾ Easy to prepare
◾ Bursting with flavor
◾ Customizable to your taste preferences
◾ Perfect for sharing
◾ Can be made ahead of time
With its creamy texture and spicy kick, this Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Dip is sure to become your go-to recipe for gatherings and casual snacking alike.
Ingredients List
◾ 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
◾ 8 oz cream cheese, softened
◾ 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
◾ 1/2 cup ranch dressing
◾ 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
◾ 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
◾ 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by ensuring all your ingredients are at room temperature. This will help them blend more easily and create a smoother dip. Shred the cooked chicken if you haven’t already done so, and soften the cream cheese by leaving it out for about 30 minutes before starting.
Step 2: Combine the Base
In your slow cooker, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix these ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the cream cheese is well incorporated and there are no large lumps.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving a small handful for topping later. If you’re using blue cheese, add half of it now, saving the rest for garnish. The combination of cheeses will give your dip a rich, complex flavor that complements the spicy buffalo sauce perfectly.
Step 4: Cook the Dip
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow the dip to cook for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent any burning around the edges. The slow cooking process will meld the flavors together beautifully.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once the dip is hot and bubbly, give it a final stir and taste for seasoning. Add more buffalo sauce or ranch dressing if desired. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese, remaining blue cheese (if using), and sliced green onions on top for a beautiful presentation.
Nutritional Information
This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Dip is a indulgent treat, rich in protein and calcium. However, it’s also high in calories and fat, so moderation is key.
Calories per Person
Approximately 300-350 calories per serving (based on 10 servings)
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this recipe lighter, consider these substitutions:
◾ Use low-fat cream cheese and ranch dressing
◾ Substitute Greek yogurt for half of the cream cheese
◾ Opt for reduced-fat cheddar cheese
◾ Increase the amount of chicken for more protein and less fat per serving
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious dip with a variety of dippers such as:
◾ Celery sticks
◾ Carrot sticks
◾ Bell pepper slices
◾ Whole grain crackers
◾ Tortilla chips
For a fun twist, try serving it in a bread bowl or using it as a topping for baked potatoes!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
◾ Overcooking the dip, which can cause separation
◾ Not stirring occasionally, leading to uneven heating
◾ Using cold ingredients, which can result in a lumpy texture
◾ Adding too much liquid, making the dip runny
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Just be sure to stir well and add a splash of milk if it seems too thick.
Is this dip gluten-free?
The base recipe is gluten-free, but always check your individual ingredients, especially the buffalo sauce and ranch dressing, to ensure they don’t contain gluten.
Can I make this dip without a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
How spicy is this dip?
The spiciness level can be adjusted by using more or less buffalo sauce. Start with less if you’re unsure, and add more to taste.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Dip is the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors that will have your guests raving. Its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing taste make it an ideal choice for any gathering or casual snack time. So, fire up that slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a dip that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!
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Share your experience with us
OOLALA
This turned out so awesome they look like they came from a exspensive bakery.
Just a question
So what about the grease from the meat? Should I use the leanest meats or is the grease give more flavor.
What about a meatloaf on top of veggies ? Would that work?
Ingredients list good, directions lacking
There were great details on quantities of ingredients I should use, but the recipe didn’t tell me the cook time. Also, mentioned in the section about “common mistakes” that you need to let it chill enough but doesn’t direct you in the recipe that you need to let it chill. More details would be helpful
Dressing is perfect!
Not a big fan of mayo, loved the Greek yogurt swap. Reduced garlic a bit. Dressing was delish!
Best coffee cake- ever!!
This recipe was not the easiest to follow due to how it was written. It requires a lot of back and forth from instructions to the lists of ingredients but oh, hey, the end result is totally worth the effort! Mouthwatering and delicious plus it’s a pretty presentation.
