Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy, spicy, and cheesy treat that’s perfect for game days, parties, or just a cozy night in. This dip combines shredded chicken with classic Buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and melted cheese, all slow-cooked to gooey perfection in the crock pot. The blend of flavors gives you a nice kick of heat with a smooth, cheesy finish that everyone loves.
I love making this dip because it’s so simple and fuss-free. Just toss in the ingredients, set the crock pot, and let it cook while you relax or get ready for your gathering. I always find that the longer it cooks, the better it tastes—the flavors have time to mix and get nice and rich. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken if you have any on hand.
My favorite way to serve this dip is with crunchy celery sticks, tortilla chips, or warm pita bread. It’s always a crowd-pleaser and disappears quickly whenever I bring it out. If you’re anything like me, you might sneak a few extra spoonfuls before anyone else gets a chance! It’s a fun, comforting snack that’s sure to keep everyone coming back for more.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor, but cooked boiled or baked chicken works great too. Leftover chicken is perfect for this recipe.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese makes the dip creamy and smooth. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cream cheese alternative, though texture may vary.
Buffalo Sauce: Classic wing sauces like Frank’s RedHot bring the right level of heat. For less spice, use less sauce or swap for a mild hot sauce or BBQ sauce.
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: These add cool, creamy balance to the heat. You can use vegan dressings if needed. Blue cheese adds tang but is optional.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts well and adds depth. Feel free to experiment with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
How Do You Make Sure the Dip is Smooth and Well Mixed in the Crock Pot?
Softening the cream cheese first is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Put cream cheese in the crock pot on low for 5 minutes to warm it slightly.
- Once soft, add the other ingredients and stir well to mix everything evenly.
- Cook on low, stirring once or twice during cooking to prevent lumps and help flavors blend.
These steps ensure a creamy, uniform dip with no clumps of cream cheese or uneven heat distribution. If you skip softening the cream cheese, the dip might not melt smoothly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crock Pot or slow cooker – I love using it because it keeps the dip warm and bubbling without fuss.
- Mixing spoon or spatula – makes stirring the ingredients easy and smooth.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate portioning of ingredients like sauce and dressing.
- Serving bowl and utensils – for passing the dip and for everyone to help themselves.
- Optional: chopping knife and cutting board – for chopping chives or green onions for garnish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use shredded rotisserie turkey instead of chicken for a different flavor twist.
- Mix in diced jalapeños or chopped bell peppers for extra veggies and spice.
- Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a melted, spicy surprise.
- Add a splash of lime juice or chopped cilantro at the end for a fresh, bright flavor.
How to Make Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup Buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- ½ cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh chopped chives or green onions (optional)
- Celery sticks, carrot sticks, tortilla chips, or crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dip takes about 5 minutes to prep and then cooks in the crock pot for 2 to 3 hours on low heat. It melts beautifully and the flavors blend well while it cooks. You can keep it warm for serving afterwards.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Soften the Cream Cheese:
Place the softened cream cheese in the crock pot and turn it on low. Let it warm for about 5 minutes until it’s creamy and easy to stir.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Add the shredded chicken, Buffalo wing sauce, ranch or blue cheese dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper to the crock pot. Stir everything together well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Cook the Dip:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. Stir once or twice during cooking to make sure it cooks evenly and stays creamy.
4. Add Blue Cheese (Optional):
About 10 minutes before serving, sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese on top if using. Cover again to let it melt slightly.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once the dip is hot and bubbly, switch the crock pot to the warm setting to keep the dip melted. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions if you like. Serve warm with celery sticks, carrot sticks, tortilla chips, or crackers.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crock pot or slow cooker
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowl and utensils
- Optional: knife and cutting board for garnish
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try shredded turkey instead of chicken for a different flavor.
- Add diced jalapeños or chopped bell peppers for extra veggies and spice.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese for a milder or spicier twist.
- Mix in fresh lime juice or chopped cilantro at the end for a bright flavor boost.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before shredding. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting for quicker prep.
Can I Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and cook the dip in the crock pot, then cool and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the crock pot or microwave before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or crock pot on low until warm and creamy again.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
You can! Use less Buffalo sauce for a milder dip, or add extra if you like heat. You can also switch out spicy wing sauce for a milder BBQ sauce if preferred.
