INTRODUCTION
Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip is a warm, creamy dip people love for parties and snacks. It mixes shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, ranch, and cheddar. You can set the slow cooker and come back to a hot, melty dip. This recipe is simple and fast to make.
If you like easy crockpot meals, you might also enjoy a savory crockpot chicken and gravy dish that uses the same set-and-forget idea.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this dip because it is fast and forgiving. The slow cooker makes the flavors blend while you do other tasks. It is spicy, creamy, and cheesy all at once. People of all ages can enjoy it. It works for game day, a potluck, or a small family snack night. You need only a few common ingredients and one pot. Clean up is easy and the dip stays warm for a long time in the crockpot.
HOW TO MAKE Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
This dip cooks slowly and becomes smooth and saucy. First, gather the ingredients and the equipment. Then, add the chicken and sauce to the crockpot. Mix in the cream cheese, ranch, and cheddar. Let it heat gently until the cheese melts and the dip looks creamy. Stir once or twice while it cooks. Taste and add more buffalo sauce if you want more heat. Serve it warm with chips or vegetables.
If you want another easy slow cooker comfort meal, try a hearty crockpot chicken tortellini that also uses simple pantry ingredients.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Crockpot or slow cooker (at least 3-quart)
- Cutting board and knife (if shredding fresh chicken)
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Serving bowl or keep dip in the crockpot insert for serving
- Optional: fork or mixer to shred chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
- In a crockpot, combine the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce.
- Add cream cheese, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours or until heated through and creamy.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or veggies.
HOW TO SERVE Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Serve this dip warm. Use a large spoon to scoop the dip into a bowl or serve it right from the crockpot insert to keep it hot. Offer sturdy dippers so they hold up to the thick dip. Good choices include tortilla chips, pita chips, pretzels, celery sticks, carrot sticks, and sliced bell peppers. For a clean look, place the dip on a platter with different dippers arranged around it. You can also top the dip with a sprinkle of extra cheddar, chopped green onion, or a swirl of ranch for color.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the dip in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warm. You can also reheat in a small saucepan on low heat. For longer storage, freeze the dip in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If the dip looks too thick after reheating, stir in a tablespoon of milk or a little ranch to loosen the texture.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Serve with tortilla chips for crunch.
- Use celery sticks for a lighter option.
- Scoop onto small toasted bread slices for a warm appetizer.
- Add to baked potatoes for a spicy topping.
- Spoon over nachos with extra cheese and bake for a few minutes.
- Offer carrot sticks and cucumber rounds for a fresh contrast.
VARIATIONS
You can change this recipe to match your taste. Add blue cheese crumbles for a stronger buffalo flavor. Mix in a cup of cooked, chopped bacon for a smoky touch. Stir in a little garlic powder or onion powder for more depth. For a milder version, use half buffalo sauce and half barbecue sauce. For a creamier dip, use half cream cheese and half Greek yogurt. You can also use pepper jack cheese for more spice.
If you like slow cooker comfort foods with different textures, try a creamy slow-cooker chili like crockpot white chicken chili with cream cheese for another easy crowd-pleaser.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dip with raw chicken in the crockpot?
A: Yes. Use about 1 pound of raw boneless skinless chicken breasts. Cook the chicken in the crockpot with a small amount of water or broth until fully cooked, about 3-4 hours on low. Shred the chicken, then add the buffalo sauce, cream cheese, ranch, and cheddar. Cook until the cheese melts and the dip is hot.
Q: Can I use different cheeses?
A: Yes. Cheddar is classic, but you can use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend. Creamy cheeses like mozzarella will change the flavor and texture slightly.
Q: How spicy is this dip?
A: The heat depends on the buffalo sauce. Use a milder sauce for less heat. You can also mix in extra ranch or cream cheese to cut the spice.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Prepare the dip and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Heat it in the crockpot or oven before serving. See the make-ahead section below for more tips.
Q: Is this dip keto friendly?
A: The dip is low in carbs if you skip sugar-heavy buffalo sauces and serve with low-carb dippers like celery. Check labels on ranch and buffalo sauce for added sugars.
Q: Can I bake this dip instead of using a crockpot?
A: Yes. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and hot. Stir before serving.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
You can assemble the dip the night before. Mix shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, ranch, and cheddar in a sealed container. Store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, add the mixture to the crockpot and heat on low for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally until it reaches the right texture. For potlucks, keep the dip in a slow cooker set on warm to keep it creamy and ready to eat.
You can also freeze the assembled dip in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight and reheat in the crockpot on low. Stir well before serving to restore the smooth texture.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip is a simple and tasty choice for parties or a cozy night at home. If you want a different slow cooker twist on buffalo dip, check this Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip for another version with clear steps. For a family-tested crockpot method, see the easy guide at Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe (Crock Pot) – Balancing Motherhood. If you want more party dip ideas and tips, read the detailed post at Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip – The Perfect Party Dip!.
Enjoy the warm, cheesy dip. Keep dippers handy and serve while it is hot.
Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients
Method
- In a crockpot, combine the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce.
- Add cream cheese, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours or until heated through and creamy.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or veggies.