Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip (Easy Recipe)

Craving a gooey, spicy appetizer that brings everyone together? Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip is the answer. Packed with bold flavor and creamy texture, this dip is a big hit at any party—from game day to casual get-togethers. If you love the kick of Buffalo wings but prefer an effortless, shareable dish, this recipe checks every box.

Below, you’ll find everything you need to master this classic. Learn about the best ingredients, simple prep steps, handy tips, storage advice, and serving ideas. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to serve up a crowd-pleasing dip that disappears fast.

Why You’ll Love Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip

This isn’t just another appetizer—it combines the crowd-pleasing flavors of chicken wings with the convenience of a hot, cheesy dip. Here’s what sets it apart:

Versatile: Works for almost any event, from tailgates to picnics.
Fast: Five minutes of prep and minimal cleanup.
Foolproof: Even beginner cooks pull off perfect results every time.
Customizable: Adjust heat and toppings for your own twist.

The secret lies in layers of flavor—the tang of Frank’s RedHot, the mellow creaminess of cheese, and the herbal punch of ranch dressing.

Ingredient Breakdown

This rich, savory dip relies on a handful of staples. Using high-quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference, so choose the best you can find.

Ingredient	Role in the Dip	Notes
Shredded Chicken	Hearty base, adds texture	Rotisserie or baked, well-seasoned preferred
Frank’s RedHot Sauce	Signature tang and spice	Substitute with other cayenne-based sauces if needed
Cream Cheese	Thickens and smooths the dip	Use full-fat for maximum richness
Ranch Dressing	Cools spice, adds herby undertones	Bottled or homemade both work
Blue Cheese Crumbles	Salty tang, classic with Buffalo flavor	Optional—swap with shredded cheddar if desired

A word about chicken: Use any shredded, cooked chicken—store-bought rotisserie, leftover baked breasts, or slow-cooked thighs. For plant-based versions, shredded jackfruit or cooked, chopped mushrooms stand in well.

How to Make Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip

Here’s the basic process from start to finish. It’s easier and faster than you might imagine.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the sweet spot for melting the cheese and heating everything through without drying out or burning the top.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

Place these items in a large mixing bowl:

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
½ cup Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce
½ cup ranch dressing
½ cup blue cheese crumbles (or substitute cheddar)

Use a sturdy spatula or hand mixer to combine. The softened cream cheese helps everything blend smoothly.

Step 3: Spread and Bake

Spread the mixture in a medium oven-safe baking dish, such as a 9-inch pie pan or a 2-quart casserole. Aim for an even layer, about 1 inch thick.

Bake for 20 minutes, until hot and bubbling at the edges. A baked top means everything’s melded together and extra creamy underneath.

Step 4: Serve Hot

Remove from the oven and let sit for a few minutes. Add toppings if you like—sliced green onions, extra cheese, or chopped parsley finish the look and add fresh flavor.

Serve with dippers (see below). Enjoy every gooey, spicy bite.

Making Buffalo Chicken Dip in a Slow Cooker

When you’re busy hosting or bringing this dip along, the Crockpot method helps. Here’s how:

Add all your ingredients to a slow cooker.
Stir to combine.
Cover, then cook on low for about 4 hours, or on high for 2 hours.
Once hot and bubbling, switch to ‘keep warm’ mode. The dip stays perfect for hours.

This approach is ideal for parties, since the dip stays creamy—and guests can help themselves.

Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Dip

Getting the texture and flavor just right doesn’t take much. A few tweaks can make your dip even better:

Cream cheese at room temperature: This guarantees smooth blending and prevents clumps.
Whip the dairy: Blend cream cheese and ranch before folding in other ingredients for a lighter, airier result.
Watch your dish size: Too small, and the dip bubbles over; too big, and it may dry out. For standard recipes, a 9-inch pan is ideal.
Customize heat: Prefer milder? Use less Frank’s or blend in extra ranch or cream cheese. Want more fire? Add a splash of extra hot sauce or sprinkle in a few chili flakes.
Upgrade your toppings: Crushed crackers, crispy bacon, diced tomatoes, or chopped green onions add interest and extra flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Odds are, you won’t have leftovers. But if you do, here is how to keep and revive your dip:

Storing

Refrigerate: Cool the dip first. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, place cooled dip into a freezer-safe bag or container. Press out excess air. Keeps well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Oven: Transfer to a baking dish and heat at 325°F until hot and bubbling, about 15 minutes for a small portion.
Microwave: Great for single servings. Use 50% power to warm gradually, stirring halfway through.
Slow Cooker: Place chilled (or thawed) dip in the cooker. Heat on low, stirring occasionally, until it returns to creamy perfection.

If reheating from frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight for the smoothest texture.

Serving Suggestions

The beauty of Buffalo Chicken Dip is its flexibility. You can pair it with nearly any crunchy, sturdy food for scooping. Here are some top dippers:

Tortilla chips
Pretzel rods
Celery sticks
Carrot sticks
Ritz crackers
Sliced bread or baguette
Mini bell peppers
Pita chips
Waffle fries

If you want to branch out, toasted corn tortillas, seasoned crostini, or thick potato chips hold up well, even with a heavy scoop.

Pro tip: Serve with a side of cool ranch or blue cheese dressing for a classic Buffalo-style touch.

Recipe Variations

Prefer to personalize your dip? Try these simple twists:

Cheese Blend: Mix shredded mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or cheddar into the dip or sprinkle on top before baking.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne, smoky chipotle powder, or chopped pickled jalapeños for extra kick.
Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with roasted cauliflower, white beans, or jackfruit.
Lower-Cal Option: Swap in light cream cheese and Greek yogurt, or use cottage cheese for a protein boost.

Experiment with these swaps to suit your crowd and your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dip and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

What’s the best way to shred chicken?

Use two forks to pull apart cooked chicken breasts or thighs. For faster results, a stand mixer with a paddle attachment works quickly with warm chicken.

Can I double the recipe?

Easy—just double all ingredients and bake in a larger dish. Extend the baking time by a few minutes as needed.

Can I use hot sauce other than Frank’s?

Frank’s RedHot is famous for its balance of heat and tang, but any cayenne pepper sauce works in a pinch. Taste and adjust heat level to your liking.

Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip lives up to its reputation—spicy, cheesy, and loaded with savory flavor. Beginners find it easy to make, while everyone else enjoys how quickly it disappears from the snack table. Whether you bake it in the oven, simmer it in a slow cooker, or adjust it with your favorite cheeses and toppings, this warm dip brings classic Buffalo taste without the fuss.

If you’re looking for a dish that makes every guest happy and leaves your kitchen with minimal mess, look no further. Give this easy dip a try at your next gathering, and watch as it becomes a staple in your snack rotation.

Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip (Easy Recipe)
Jump to Recipe