If you’re looking for the ultimate party appetizer, this Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip is a must-try! It’s creamy, cheesy, spicy, and packed with the bold flavors of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. This dip is the perfect addition to game days, potlucks, or casual gatherings—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make in a slow cooker. Just dump in the ingredients, let them cook, and stir for a perfectly melted, flavorful dip. Whether you’re a fan of mild or extra-spicy buffalo flavor, this recipe is fully customizable to match your taste.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything from ingredient choices, cooking tips, serving suggestions, variations, and storage instructions to help you make the best Buffalo Chicken Dip ever.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you haven’t made this dip before, here’s why it’s going to be your new go-to:
Easy & Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work—just set it and forget it.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a Super Bowl party, holiday gathering, or casual movie night, this dip is always a hit.
Few Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a handful of ingredients, you get a dip that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat to suit your preference—mild, medium, or extra hot.
Pairs Well with Everything: Serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, celery sticks, or toasted bread.
This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip is truly the easiest, most delicious way to enjoy buffalo chicken flavor in a creamy, cheesy form.
Ingredients for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
To make this addictive dip, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Essential Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie, canned, or boiled)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (Frank’s RedHot or your favorite brand)
- 1 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing, if preferred)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional, for a savory boost)
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations:
- Chicken Options: Use canned chicken for convenience or cook and shred fresh chicken breasts.
- Cheese Choices: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Colby, or a spicy pepper jack for extra kick.
- Dressing Swap: Prefer blue cheese? Go for it! It adds a tangy twist to the dip.
- Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of ranch and low-fat cream cheese.
Each ingredient plays a key role in making this dip creamy, spicy, and delicious. Now, let’s move on to how to make it step by step!
How to Make Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Making this Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip couldn’t be easier! Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dip that’s ready to impress.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are ready to go.
Shred the Chicken – If using rotisserie or cooked chicken breasts, shred them into bite-sized pieces with two forks. Canned chicken? Just drain and shred.
Soften the Cream Cheese – Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This helps it blend smoothly.
Measure Out the Ingredients – Have your buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, shredded cheese, and seasonings ready for easy mixing.
Pro Tip: For an extra creamy dip, mix the cream cheese, ranch, and buffalo sauce together before adding them to the slow cooker.
👉 Looking for another easy chicken dish? Try this Chicken Taco Soup, a flavorful one-pot meal!
Combine Everything in the Crockpot
Now, let’s get cooking!
Spray the inside of your Crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Add all the ingredients – shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, and seasonings.
Stir everything together until well combined. It may not be perfectly smooth yet, but the heat will melt everything into a creamy texture.
Tip: Want extra cheesy goodness? Save ½ cup of cheddar cheese to sprinkle on top later.
Cook & Stir Occasionally
Set your Crockpot to LOW for 2-3 hours (or HIGH for 1-1.5 hours).
Stir occasionally to make sure the cheese melts evenly and everything is well mixed.
By the end of cooking, your dip will be warm, creamy, and ready to enjoy!
👉 For another comforting dish, check out this cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole!
Add Final Cheese & Serve
Once the dip is hot and bubbly, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.
Cover and let it melt for about 10 more minutes before serving.
Stir the dip one last time and serve it warm straight from the slow cooker or transfer it to a serving dish.
💡 Hosting a party? Serve this dip alongside homemade Philly Cheesesteak Pizza for a winning game day spread!
How to Keep the Dip Warm for Serving
Serving at a party? Keep your Crockpot on the WARM setting so the dip stays melty and delicious.
If it thickens too much, add a splash of warm milk or extra buffalo sauce and stir.
This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip is now ready to be enjoyed! Up next, let’s talk about the best ways to serve it.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Now that your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip is hot, creamy, and ready to serve, let’s talk about the best ways to enjoy it!
This dip is incredibly versatile, pairing perfectly with a variety of dippers, side dishes, and creative serving ideas.
Best Dippers for Buffalo Chicken Dip
The right dipper can take this recipe to the next level. Here are some of the best options:
Classic Dippers:
Tortilla Chips – The crunchy texture balances the creamy dip.
Crackers – Buttery Ritz, Wheat Thins, or Triscuits work well.
Toasted Bread Slices – Great for spreading!
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Dippers:
Celery Sticks – A refreshing crunch that cuts through the spice.
Cucumber Slices – Light and fresh.
Bell Pepper Strips – Adds a sweet contrast to the heat.
Other Fun Options:
Pita Chips – Adds a sturdy base for scooping.
Pretzels – A salty, crunchy option.
Carrot Sticks – Adds a hint of sweetness.
Pro Tip: Want to make your dip even more indulgent? Try serving it with soft pretzel bites or garlic breadsticks!
Best Sides to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Dip
While this dip is amazing on its own, pairing it with the right sides can make it an even bigger hit at parties.
Buffalo Wings – Double the buffalo flavor for wing lovers!
Mozzarella Sticks – More cheese = more happiness.
Loaded Nachos – Drizzle the dip over tortilla chips and top with jalapeños and sour cream.
French Fries or Tater Tots – Use the dip as a cheesy topping.
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – Spread the dip inside for an extra-flavorful twist.
If you’re serving this for a game day spread, add a charcuterie board with meats, cheeses, and pickles for variety.
Creative Ways to Serve Buffalo Chicken Dip
If you want to elevate your presentation, try these unique serving ideas:
🧀 Buffalo Chicken Dip Bread Bowl – Hollow out a sourdough loaf and pour the dip inside. Serve with bread cubes for dipping!
🌮 Buffalo Chicken Tacos – Add the dip inside soft tortillas, top with shredded lettuce and ranch dressing.
🥪 Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese – Spread the dip between slices of bread and grill to perfection.
🍕 Buffalo Chicken Pizza – Spread the dip over a pizza crust, top with extra cheese, and bake!
🥚 Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Eggs – Fill hard-boiled egg halves with the dip for a spicy twist on deviled eggs.
How to Keep Buffalo Chicken Dip Warm at a Party
Use the Crockpot’s WARM Setting – This keeps the dip creamy for hours.
Stir Occasionally – This prevents it from thickening too much.
Add a Splash of Milk if Needed – If the dip starts drying out, a little milk or extra buffalo sauce will fix it.
Now that you know how to serve this delicious dip, let’s explore some fun variations and customizations to suit different tastes and diets!
Variations & Customizations for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
One of the best things about Buffalo Chicken Dip is how versatile it is! Whether you want a healthier version, a spicier twist, or a dairy-free alternative, here are some fun ways to customize this dip to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
1️⃣ Make It Healthier 🥗
Want a lighter version without sacrificing flavor? Try these simple swaps:
Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Ranch Dressing – This reduces calories while keeping the dip creamy.
Opt for Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese & Cheese – Lower in fat but still melts beautifully.
Use Fresh, Lean Chicken Breast – Instead of rotisserie or canned chicken, cook and shred skinless, boneless chicken breast for a cleaner option.
Add Extra Veggies – Stir in diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added nutrients.
Bonus Tip: Serve with vegetable dippers like celery, carrots, and cucumbers instead of chips for a low-carb, high-fiber snack!
2️⃣ Extra Spicy Version 🔥🌶️
Love heat? Take your Buffalo Chicken Dip up a notch with these fiery upgrades:
Use Extra Hot Buffalo Sauce – Try Frank’s XTRA Hot or add a few dashes of cayenne pepper.
Add Fresh Jalapeños or Habaneros – Dice and mix them into the dip for a spicy kick.
Mix in Some Hot Sauce – Sriracha, Tabasco, or ghost pepper sauce will turn up the heat!
Sprinkle Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a slow-burning spice.
Pro Tip: Balance the heat with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side!
3️⃣ Dairy-Free & Vegan Version 🥑🌱
For those avoiding dairy, here’s how to make this Buffalo Chicken Dip completely dairy-free:
Swap the Cream Cheese – Use a dairy-free cream cheese like Kite Hill or Daiya.
Use Dairy-Free Ranch Dressing – Primal Kitchen makes a great plant-based ranch.
Choose Vegan Cheese – Try Violife or Follow Your Heart shredded cheese.
Use Jackfruit Instead of Chicken – Shredded jackfruit mimics the texture of chicken!
This version is just as creamy and flavorful, perfect for plant-based eaters!
4️⃣ Keto & Low-Carb Version 🥓🧀
Buffalo Chicken Dip is naturally low in carbs, but you can make it even more keto-friendly:
Skip the Ranch & Use Sour Cream – This lowers the carb count.
Increase the Cheese & Chicken – More protein and fat, fewer carbs!
Avoid Sugary Buffalo Sauces – Stick with low-carb buffalo sauces with no added sugars.
Serve with Low-Carb Dippers – Use celery sticks, bell peppers, pork rinds, or keto crackers.
This version is perfect for those following a keto lifestyle while still enjoying the cheesy, spicy goodness of Buffalo Chicken Dip!
5️⃣ Unique Flavor Twists 😋
Want to put a fun twist on the classic recipe? Try these ideas:
BBQ Buffalo Dip – Mix ½ cup of BBQ sauce with buffalo sauce for a smoky-sweet flavor.
Bacon Buffalo Dip – Add crispy crumbled bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Buffalo Dip – Mix in ½ cup Parmesan cheese and minced garlic for a cheesy, garlicky taste.
Ranch-Lover’s Version – Double the ranch dressing for a milder, tangier dip.
Tex-Mex Buffalo Dip – Add taco seasoning and diced jalapeños for a spicy, Mexican-inspired twist.
With these customizations, you can make Buffalo Chicken Dip exactly how YOU like it!
Storing & Reheating Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo Chicken Dip is just as delicious the next day, making it a great make-ahead dish. Whether you have leftovers or want to prep it in advance, here’s how to store and reheat it for the best taste and texture.
How to Store Buffalo Chicken Dip
To keep your dip fresh, follow these simple storage tips:
Refrigerator: Store leftover dip in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Buffalo Chicken Dip can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container and label it with the date.
Best Practice: Let the dip cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
Pro Tip: If you’re making this dip ahead of time, store it before cooking and refrigerate overnight. Simply pop it in the Crockpot the next day to heat it up!
How to Reheat Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo Chicken Dip thickens as it cools, so proper reheating ensures it stays creamy and delicious. Here are the best ways to warm it back up:
1️⃣ In the Microwave (Quickest Method)
Place a portion of dip in a microwave-safe bowl.
Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warm.
Add a splash of milk or extra buffalo sauce if needed to maintain creaminess.
2️⃣ In the Crockpot (Best for Parties)
Pour the leftover dip into the Crockpot.
Set it to LOW and heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Add a little extra cheese on top for freshness.
3️⃣ On the Stovetop (Best for Small Portions)
Transfer the dip to a small saucepan.
Heat on low, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
If it’s too thick, stir in a little milk or buffalo sauce.
4️⃣ In the Oven (Best for Baked Version)
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the dip in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and bake for another 5 minutes until bubbly.
Can You Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare everything in advance and cook it when needed:
Assemble all ingredients in the Crockpot, cover, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, cook as directed.
Cook the dip ahead of time, store it, and reheat it when serving.
This makes it super convenient for parties, holidays, and busy weeknights!
How Long Does Buffalo Chicken Dip Last?
In the fridge: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
In the freezer: Up to 3 months.
At room temperature: No more than 2 hours (if serving at a party, keep it warm in a Crockpot).
Now that you know how to store and reheat this dip, let’s move on to the most common questions people ask about Buffalo Chicken Dip!
Frequently Asked Questions
1️⃣ How long is Buffalo Chicken Dip safe to eat?
Buffalo Chicken Dip is safe to eat as long as it’s stored properly. Here’s a quick guide:
At room temperature: Up to 2 hours. After that, bacteria can start to grow, so it’s best to refrigerate it.
In the refrigerator: 3-4 days in an airtight container.
In the freezer: Up to 3 months for best quality.
Pro Tip: If serving at a party, keep it warm in a Crockpot on LOW or WARM to prevent it from sitting out too long.
2️⃣ Why is my Buffalo Chicken Dip soupy?
If your dip turns out too runny, here are a few possible reasons and how to fix it:
Too much buffalo sauce or ranch dressing – Try reducing the liquid ingredients next time.
Excess moisture from canned chicken – Drain the chicken well before adding it to the dip.
High heat cooking – Cooking the dip on HIGH in the Crockpot can cause separation. Next time, cook it on LOW for a creamier consistency.
Too much stirring – Overmixing can break down the cheese and create a thinner dip.
How to Fix It:
Add more cheese – Stir in extra shredded cheese to thicken it.
Use cream cheese – Mix in more softened cream cheese to absorb the liquid.
Bake it – Transfer the dip to an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
3️⃣ Can I make Buffalo Chicken Dip the night before?
Yes! Making Buffalo Chicken Dip ahead of time is a great way to save time before a party or event. Here’s how:
Assemble but Don’t Cook – Mix all the ingredients in the Crockpot, cover, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, cook as direct
Fully Cook, Then Reheat – Prepare and cook the dip, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat it in the Crockpot, oven, or microwave when ready to serve.
Tip: If the dip thickens too much overnight, stir in a splash of milk or extra buffalo sauce before reheating.
4️⃣ How to tell if Buffalo Chicken Dip is bad?
If you’re unsure whether your Buffalo Chicken Dip is still good, check for these signs:
Sour or off smell – Fresh dip should smell like cheese and buffalo sauce. A sour smell means it’s gone bad.
Mold or discoloration – If you see green, white, or fuzzy spots, throw it away.
Slimy or watery texture – If the dip looks separated, overly watery, or slimy, it’s no longer good.
Strange taste – If it tastes “off,” don’t risk eating it.
Rule of Thumb: If it’s been in the fridge for more than 4 days, it’s safer to throw it out rather than risk food poisoning.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for game days, parties, and casual gatherings. Its creamy, cheesy texture and bold buffalo flavor make it an irresistible appetizer that’s easy to prepare in a Crockpot.
With simple ingredients, minimal prep time, and endless customization options, this dip is perfect for any occasion. Whether you like it extra spicy, dairy-free, keto-friendly, or loaded with extra cheese and bacon, there’s a version for everyone.
Quick Recap:
Easy to Make – The slow cooker does all the work!
Versatile & Customizable – Adjust the heat, cheese, and mix-ins to your liking.
Great for Any Occasion – Super Bowl parties, potlucks, or a fun snack night.
Stores & Reheats Well – Enjoy leftovers for days!
No matter how you serve it—with tortilla chips, veggies, or even inside a bread bowl—this Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip is guaranteed to be a hit!
So grab your Crockpot, some buffalo sauce, and cheese, and get ready to enjoy the best Buffalo Chicken Dip ever!
Easy Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip – Creamy, Cheesy & Spicy!
Equipment
- ✔️ Crockpot/Slow Cooker (2–4 quarts)
- ✔️ Mixing Spoon
- ✔️ Measuring Cups & Spoons
- ✔️ Cheese Grater (if shredding fresh cheese)
- ✔️ Serving Bowl or Platter (optional)
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken rotisserie, canned, or boiled & shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup buffalo sauce Frank’s RedHot or preferred brand
- 1 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder optional, for extra flavor
- ½ teaspoon onion powder optional, for depth of flavor
- Optional Toppings & Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- Crumbled blue cheese for extra tang
- Chopped jalapeños for spice lovers
- Best Dippers for Serving:
- Tortilla chips
- Celery sticks
- Carrot sticks
- Crackers
- Pita chips
- Bread slices
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
- 1️⃣ Shred the Chicken: If using rotisserie or cooked chicken breasts, shred them using two forks. If using canned chicken, drain and shred.
- 2️⃣ Soften the Cream Cheese: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to make mixing easier.
- Step 2: Mix Ingredients in the Crockpot
- 3️⃣ Spray the Crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- 4️⃣ Add all ingredients – shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, and seasonings.
- 5️⃣ Stir to combine, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Step 3: Cook & Stir Occasionally
- 6️⃣ Cover and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours or HIGH for 1–1.5 hours, stirring occasionally until the mixture is hot and melted.
- Step 4: Add Final Cheese & Serve
- 7️⃣ Once the dip is heated through, sprinkle an additional ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top and cover for another 10 minutes until melted.
- 8️⃣ Stir well before serving and garnish with chopped green onions or crumbled blue cheese.
- Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- 9️⃣ Serve the dip warm directly from the slow cooker or transfer to a serving bowl. Pair with chips, veggies, or crackers.
Notes
✔️ For a milder dip: Reduce the buffalo sauce and increase the ranch dressing.
✔️ To make it thicker: Stir in more cream cheese or shredded cheese.
✔️ To make it thinner: Add a splash of milk while stirring.
✔️ For a smoky flavor: Use smoked cheddar instead of regular cheddar.
✔️ To keep warm for parties: Leave the Crockpot on WARM setting while serving.