Easy Frank's Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe For Game Day
Frank's buffalo chicken dip recipe is a creamy, spicy, and savory appetizer that combines shredded chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, and a blend of cheeses.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- 9-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Frank's RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce (or to taste)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup blue cheese dressing (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
- Tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Prepare a 9-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it. This step ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Step 2: Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, Frank's RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce, ranch dressing, and blue cheese dressing (if using). Mix until well combined, ensuring that the cream cheese is fully incorporated for a smooth texture.
- Step 3: Add Cheese: Stir in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and the blue cheese crumbles (if using) into the mixture. Reserve the remaining cheddar cheese for topping. This step adds a cheesy richness throughout the dip and sets aside a delightful melted topping.
- Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. This ensures uniform cooking and a visually appealing presentation.
- Step 5: Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the dip. This creates a golden, bubbly crust when baked.
- Step 6: Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Monitor closely to prevent burning.
- Step 7: Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers. The brief cooling period prevents burns and allows the flavors to meld. For a spicier dip, increase the amount of Frank's RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce. For a milder version, reduce the amount or substitute with a milder hot sauce. Blue cheese crumbles can be omitted for those who dislike blue cheese. Monterey Jack cheese can be substituted for cheddar cheese.
Notes
Variations
Frank’s buffalo chicken dip recipe offers a canvas for creativity and adaptation, allowing cooks to tailor it to specific tastes and dietary needs. Possible variations include:
- Ingredient Swaps: Monterey Jack cheese can be replaced with pepper jack for an added kick. Greek yogurt can substitute for sour cream to lower the fat content while maintaining a creamy texture. For a vegetarian option, shredded jackfruit or cauliflower can replace the chicken.
- Regional Twists: Southwestern flavor can be introduced by adding a can of drained, diced green chilies and a sprinkle of cumin. For a Tex-Mex version, consider adding black beans, corn, and topping with a dollop of guacamole after baking.
- Dietary Adjustments: To make it gluten-free, ensure all ingredients, particularly the ranch and blue cheese dressings, are certified gluten-free. Dairy-free cream cheese substitutes are available to cater to those with lactose intolerance. For a lighter version, reduce the amount of cheese or opt for reduced-fat varieties.
Serving Suggestions
Frank’s buffalo chicken dip recipe shines as an appetizer at various gatherings. It is particularly well-suited for game-day parties, casual get-togethers, and holiday celebrations. Serve warm directly from the oven or in a slow cooker to maintain optimal temperature. Accompaniments include tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, baguette slices, and crackers. The dip can also be incorporated into other dishes; it makes an excellent filling for quesadillas or a topping for baked potatoes.
Storage Tips
Proper storage maintains the dip’s freshness and flavor. Leftover frank’s buffalo chicken dip recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be safely stored for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, it can be reheated in a baking dish in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) until warm. Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the dairy components.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can the dip be made ahead of time? Answer: Yes, the dip can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Question 2: What can be used in place of Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce? Answer: Any buffalo-style hot sauce can be used as a substitute. Adjust the amount to match the desired level of spiciness.
- Question 3: Is it possible to make this in a slow cooker? Answer: Absolutely. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until heated through and the cheese is melted. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Question 4: Can I use canned chicken? Answer: Canned chicken can be used in a pinch, but freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken offers superior flavor and texture. Be sure to drain the canned chicken thoroughly before adding it to the dip.