There's something irresistible about the warm, creamy, and spicy goodness of a homemade Buffalo Chicken Dip Crockpot Recipe. It's that perfect game-day snack or party starter that gets everyone reaching for more, and the easiest way to serve it without heating up your kitchen.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Buffalo Chicken Dip Crockpot Recipe is honestly one of my go-tos for gatherings because it's so thrillingly easy and always packs a punch. The slow cooker does all the work, melding flavors gently and perfectly while you relax or prep other dishes.
- Effortless Cooking: You toss everything in your crockpot and let it simmer into cheesy, spicy perfection—super hands-off.
- Flavorful & Balanced: The blend of buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, and classic cheeses creates a crave-worthy, well-rounded dip.
- Perfect Party Food: It feeds a crowd really well, and people love how creamy and spicy it is without being overwhelming.
- Customizable & Flexible: You can easily adjust heat levels or add your favorite mix-ins to make it your own.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient in this Buffalo Chicken Dip Crockpot Recipe plays a crucial role, working together to create that luscious, fiery dip you know and love. When shopping, I recommend going for the best quality full-fat cheeses and using Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce—it has just the right tang and heat that sets this dip apart.
- Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce: This gives the dip its signature buffalo heat and tangy flavor without overpowering.
- Full-fat sour cream: Adds creaminess and balances the spice while keeping the dip rich.
- Dry ranch dressing seasoning mix: A flavor bomb for that herby tang, enhancing the buffalo sauce perfectly.
- Chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt: These spices layer in smoky warmth and depth that bring complexity.
- Cooked and shredded chicken: Provides hearty protein and texture; I love using rotisserie chicken for ease.
- Blue cheese crumbles: Adds sharp, creamy punch classic to buffalo dishes—skip only if you dislike blue cheese.
- Cheddar cheese: Offers melty, gooey richness with a slight bite in flavor.
- Mozzarella cheese: Brings smooth stretchiness and mellow taste for an inviting texture.
- Cream cheese: Cubed for gradual melting, it turns everything incredibly creamy and luxurious.
Make It Your Way
I love how flexible this Buffalo Chicken Dip Crockpot Recipe is. I often tweak the heat by adding extra hot sauce or swap blue cheese for extra cheddar if I know my guests aren’t fans. You can truly make it as mild or fiery as you like—don’t be shy about adjusting!
- Variation: One time, I stirred in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick and the dip disappeared even faster!
- Diet-Friendly Adjustments: For a lighter version, I’ve tried Greek yogurt instead of sour cream—just remember it changes the tang slightly.
- Make It Vegetarian: Substitute shredded chicken with shredded jackfruit or cooked cauliflower for a meatless but still savory alternative.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Crockpot Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Crockpot and Mix Base Flavors
Start by spraying your crockpot insert with nonstick cooking spray—this makes cleanup so much easier. Then, whisk together the buffalo sauce, sour cream, ranch seasoning, and all the spices right in the crockpot. This ensures that base is evenly seasoned before adding anything else.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Cheeses
Stir in your shredded chicken, blue cheese crumbles, 1 cup of cheddar, and ⅓ cup mozzarella. I always use rotisserie chicken—it's a huge time saver and adds tons of flavor. Mix gently so the chicken is coated but not mashed up.
Step 3: Soften and Add the Cream Cheese
Microwave the cubed cream cheese for about 25 seconds so it softens but doesn’t melt completely. I’ve learned this little step helps the final dip turn out ultra smooth. Distribute the cream cheese cubes evenly over the mixture—you don't stir it in yet.
Step 4: Slow Cook and Stir
Cover and cook on low for 1 hour. After that, stir everything together well—the cream cheese will start to melt and combine with the others. Depending on your crockpot’s age and size, you might need to cook it another 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until it’s all melted and deliciously hot.
Step 5: Add Remaining Cheese and Finish Cooking
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella evenly on top. Cover again and let it cook on low for an extra 20 minutes or until that cheese melts beautifully, forming a bubbly, golden layer that everyone loves.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Switch your crockpot to warm to keep the dip perfect while serving. I like to garnish with fresh green onions and extra blue cheese crumbles for a burst of color and flavor. Serve it up with your favorite chips, pretzels, or veggie sticks—and watch it disappear fast!
Top Tip
After making this dip a dozen times, I’ve picked up a few tricks that really take your Buffalo Chicken Dip Crockpot Recipe to the next level and keep your experience stress-free.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Saves you so much time and adds rich flavor, plus the shred is just perfect for texture.
- Don’t Skip Softening Cream Cheese: Microwaving those cubes ensures they melt evenly without lumps—trust me, it makes a huge difference.
- Adjust Heat Gradually: You can always add more buffalo sauce later, but it’s harder to fix if it gets too spicy right away.
- Stir Gently but Often: Especially if your crockpot runs hot, stirring every 30 minutes prevents burning and keeps everything silky smooth.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Dip Crockpot Recipe
Garnishes
I’m big on garnishing with chopped green onions—they add a fresh crunch and a bit of color that livens up the dip visually and flavor-wise. Crumbled blue cheese on top adds extra tang and creaminess for the true buffalo experience. Sometimes, I toss on a little fresh cilantro or parsley for a herbaceous lift, especially if I’m serving it at a casual backyard party.
Side Dishes
This dip loves good company! I often serve it alongside crunchy celery sticks, carrot batons, and colorful bell pepper strips for a veggie boost. And for the carb lovers? Tortilla chips, pretzels, crispy crostini, and buttery crackers make perfect dippers. Pairing it with cold beer or a crisp white wine is my personal favorite combo!
Creative Ways to Present
One fun trick I learned was to serve this dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl. It’s a crowd-pleaser that looks charming and means less cleanup. Another time, I baked the dip on top of flatbread for an impromptu buffalo chicken flatbread pizza—outstanding for a game day twist. Presentation really elevates this simple dip!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge where it keeps well for about 3 to 4 days. After cooling, make sure to cover it tightly to preserve moisture and prevent it from absorbing fridge odors. When I reheat, I usually add a splash of milk or cream to help it regain that creamy texture.
Freezing
Freezing Buffalo Chicken Dip Crockpot Recipe works, but keep in mind the texture can change slightly. I recommend portioning it into freezer-safe containers and consuming within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to avoid separation of the cheese and sauce.
Reheating
My favorite way to reheat is in a microwave-safe dish in short bursts, stirring every 30 seconds until piping hot. Alternatively, slow heating on the stove over low heat with a bit of added liquid keeps it silky without scorching. Always stir carefully to bring back that smooth, cheesy melt.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Absolutely! Blue cheese adds a signature tang but it's totally optional—use extra cheddar or a blend of cheeses you love for a milder flavor.
Once cooked, store the dip in a covered container in the fridge. It stays good for about 3 to 4 days, but for the best flavor, try to eat it sooner.
Yes! If using raw chicken, cook it first by boiling or baking, then shred it before adding to the dip. Using rotisserie chicken just saves time and adds flavor.
Microwave in short bursts, stirring in-between, or gently reheat on the stove with a bit of milk to maintain creaminess. Avoid overheating to keep the cheese from separating.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Dip Crockpot Recipe isn’t just a dip—it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that brings people together. I always feel that cozy buzz of excitement when I pull it out warm and gooey from the slow cooker, surrounded by friends and laughter. I’m confident you’ll enjoy making this recipe as much as I do, and your guests will thank you every time for sharing such a comforting, tasty treat.
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Buffalo Chicken Dip Crockpot Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A creamy, spicy, and cheesy Buffalo Chicken Dip made easy in the crockpot. Perfect for parties and gatherings, this dip combines shredded chicken, hot sauce, cream cheese, and a blend of cheeses and spices for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ⅔ cup Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce, NOT original/traditional
- ¾ cup full fat sour cream
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 pound (4 packed cups) cooked and shredded chicken (about 1 large rotisserie)
- ¼ cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1 ⅓ packed cups finely shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ⅔ packed cups finely shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, cubed into 12 pieces
For Serving
- Green onions
- Crumbled blue cheese
- Cilantro or parsley
- Chips, crackers, crostini, pretzels, veggies, etc.
Instructions
- Prep Crockpot: Spray the crockpot insert with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In the crockpot, whisk together the buffalo sauce, sour cream, ranch seasoning, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Stir in the shredded chicken, blue cheese crumbles, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and ⅓ cup shredded mozzarella cheese until evenly mixed.
- Add Cream Cheese: Microwave the cubed cream cheese on a plate for 25 seconds to soften it, then evenly distribute the cubes over the chicken mixture in the crockpot without stirring.
- Cook the Stir: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 1 hour. After that, stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Cook Until Melted: For large, newer crockpots, the dip should be nearly done. For older or smaller units, continue cooking on low for an additional 1 to 1 ½ hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheeses are fully melted and the dip is hot throughout.
- Top with Cheeses: Evenly sprinkle the remaining ⅓ cup cheddar cheese and ⅓ cup mozzarella cheese over the dip. Cover and cook on low for an additional 20 minutes or until the cheese topping has melted completely.
- Garnish and Serve: Keep the heat on low or warm while serving. Garnish the dip with chopped green onions and extra blue cheese crumbles if desired. Serve hot with chips, crackers, crostini, pretzels, or fresh veggies such as carrots, celery sticks, and bell peppers.
Notes
- Use a rotisserie chicken for quick and flavorful shredded chicken.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
- Softening the cream cheese before adding helps it melt evenly.
- Stir occasionally during the last cooking phase for consistent melting and to prevent burning.
- Can be made a day ahead and reheated in the crockpot on low.
- Serve with a variety of dippers including veggies and crackers for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Make sure to spray the crockpot insert to avoid sticking and make cleanup easier.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ cup
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg

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