Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip is a crowd-pleasing, creamy, and spicy appetizer that’s super easy to make. It’s packed with shredded chicken, gooey melted cheese, and that classic tangy buffalo sauce flavor that gives it just the right kick. The slow cooker does all the work, making the dip warm and melty for whenever your guests are ready to dig in.
I love making this dip when we have friends over because it’s hands-down a favorite for game days or casual get-togethers. What makes it extra fun is how simple it is: toss everything in the crock pot and let it bubble away while you get other things ready. I always keep some celery sticks or tortilla chips close by for dunking because they’re perfect for scooping up all that spicy, cheesy goodness.
This dip reminds me of cozy times where everyone gathers around the table just chatting and snacking. It’s the kind of recipe I turn to when I want to share something comforting and a little zesty without spending hours in the kitchen. If you like buffalo sauce with a cheesy twist, this dip will definitely become a go-to in your recipe box.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and keeps this dip quick. You can also poach chicken breasts and shred them yourself for a fresher taste.
Cream Cheese: This adds the creamy base. For a lighter dip, try reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt, but the texture will be different.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: This gives the dip its signature spicy kick. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it. You can substitute with a mild hot sauce if you prefer less heat.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best for flavor. You can mix in mozzarella for stringiness or use pepper jack for extra spice.
Ranch Dressing & Sour Cream: These smooth out the heat and add tang. If you want dairy-free, try vegan ranch and sour cream alternatives.
How Do You Get the Dip Smooth and Well-Mixed in the Crock Pot?
Mixing everything well before adding to the crock pot ensures all flavors blend nicely. Here’s how:
- Soften the cream cheese first to make stirring easier.
- Use a large bowl to combine cream cheese, ranch, sour cream, and buffalo sauce until smooth.
- Fold in shredded chicken and cheese gently so the cheese doesn’t clump.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the crock pot for uniform heating.
- Stir the dip once about halfway through cooking to keep everything creamy and warm.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crock pot or slow cooker – I like using it because it keeps the dip warm and ready to serve at all times.
- Mixing bowls – handy for combining all the ingredients smoothly before cooking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – makes stirring the dip easy and gentle, avoiding scratches.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate portioning of ingredients and spices.
- Serving spoon and chips or celery sticks – for digging in and snacking right from the pot.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked shredded chicken with buffalo flavor, or try shredded turkey for a different twist during holidays.
- Mix in shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for varied flavor and meltiness.
- Add chopped green onions or cilantro on top for a fresh, herbal note.
- Incorporate cooked chopped bacon or blue cheese crumbles for extra richness and texture.
Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or cooked chicken breasts)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup blue cheese crumbles (optional, for topping)
- Celery sticks, tortilla chips, or toasted baguette slices for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and mix all the ingredients. Then, you’ll cook the dip in the crock pot on low for 2 to 3 hours until it’s hot and bubbly. After cooking, it’s ready to serve immediately and can be kept warm in the crock pot for your guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Creamy Base:
Start by placing the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, sour cream, and buffalo wing sauce in a large mixing bowl. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
2. Add Chicken and Cheese:
Gently fold the shredded cooked chicken and shredded cheddar cheese into the creamy mixture. Make sure everything is blended well but keep it light so the cheese doesn’t clump up.
3. Cook in the Crock Pot:
Transfer the entire mixture into your crock pot and spread it out evenly. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. About halfway through cooking, give the dip a good stir to mix it well and help it heat evenly.
4. Add Toppings and Serve:
Once the dip is hot and bubbly, sprinkle the optional blue cheese crumbles on top for an extra burst of flavor. Keep the crock pot on warm so the dip stays nice and melty while serving. Use celery sticks, tortilla chips, or toasted baguette slices to scoop and enjoy.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before shredding and adding to the dip. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing.
Can I Prepare This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can mix all the ingredients in advance and refrigerate the mixture for up to 24 hours. When ready, transfer it to the crock pot and cook as directed.
How Do I Store Leftover Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the crock pot on the warm setting or microwave until hot, stirring occasionally.
What Can I Serve with Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Classic options include celery sticks, tortilla chips, and toasted baguette slices. You can also serve it with crackers, pita chips, or sliced fresh veggies for dipping.