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This Rotisserie Buffalo Chicken Dip with Ranch is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for game days, parties, or cozy nights at home. Its creamy texture combined with bold Buffalo flavors and the tang of ranch dressing creates a perfect balance that keeps everyone coming back for more. Using tender rotisserie chicken makes this dip flavorful while cutting prep time, making it easy to whip up whenever you need a delicious snack or appetizer.
I first made this dip during a busy football Sunday and it disappeared before halftime. Now it’s my go-to recipe for any event where finger food is a must.
Ingredients
- 20 ounces cooked chicken: shredded or chopped for easy mixing choose tender rotisserie chicken for best flavor
- 2 to 3 teaspoons ranch seasoning: split between seasoning the chicken and the dip to boost the overall zest
- 8 ounces cream cheese: softened at room temperature and diced for smooth incorporation
- Half a cup ranch dressing: adds tangy creaminess to balance heat
- One cup Buffalo sauce: for that spicy kick choose your preferred heat level from mild to hot
- Two to three cups grated cheese: using a blend of cheddar and mozzarella or gruyere gives a rich and melty texture opt for freshly grated cheese for better meltability
- Salt and pepper: to taste enhances and rounds out all the flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure even baking and a perfectly melted dip.
- Season the Chicken:
- In a mixing bowl season the cooked chicken with one to one and a half teaspoons of ranch seasoning. Shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces to help it mix evenly and absorb the flavors.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the seasoned chicken cream cheese ranch dressing Buffalo sauce and half of the grated cheese into a large mixing bowl. Stir everything together well until all ingredients are fully combined and creamy.
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish or any oven-safe pan and spread the mixture evenly across the bottom for uniform cooking.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. This cheese layer will create a golden gooey crust once baked.
- Bake Until Bubbly:
- Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for fifteen to twenty minutes. The dip should be bubbly and the cheese golden.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness:
- For a crispier topping switch your oven to broil and cook for an additional three to five minutes until lightly browned but not burnt. Keep a close eye on it during this step.
- Cool Before Serving:
- Remove the dish from the oven using oven mitts and allow it to cool slightly for easier scooping and for the flavors to meld.
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My favorite ingredient has to be the Buffalo sauce because it adds just the right balance of heat and tang. One memorable family night involved this dip disappearing so fast that I had to make a second batch before the game even ended.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within three days for the best freshness. To extend the shelf life freeze the dip in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When ready to eat thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Ingredient Substitutions
Cream cheese can be replaced with Neufchâtel cheese for a lower fat option or Greek yogurt for tanginess but expect a slightly different texture. Buffalo sauce can be substituted with hot sauce mixed with melted butter if you prefer a homemade style. Cheese blends can vary too pepper jack adds a little spice while gouda brings smokiness to the dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for the classic experience or toasted baguette slices for a more refined appetizer. Fresh celery and carrot sticks add a crisp refreshing balance to the richness. For parties try filling mini phyllo cups or include the dip as part of a colorful veggie platter to please all palates.
Pro Tips
- Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps and ensure smooth blending of ingredients
- Do not skip seasoning the chicken with ranch it adds an extra layer of flavor that makes the dip pop
- Keep an eye on the dip when broiling to get the perfect golden crispy top without burning
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of chicken works best for this dip?
Tender shredded rotisserie chicken is ideal as it adds juicy flavor and effortless preparation.
- → Can I adjust the spice level of the dish?
Yes, simply vary the amount of Buffalo sauce or add cayenne pepper to increase heat, or reduce sauce for milder taste.
- → What cheeses are recommended for this dip?
A combination of cheddar and mozzarella offers a good balance of sharpness and creaminess, but gouda or pepper jack can add tasty twists.
- → How do I achieve a crispy topping?
After baking, switch to broil for 3-5 minutes to brown and crisp the cheese layer on top.
- → What are good serving options for this dip?
This dip pairs well with tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, celery sticks, carrot sticks, or mini phyllo cups.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.