Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip is the perfect mix of spicy, cheesy, and creamy all in one warm and gooey dish. It’s packed with shredded chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, and plenty of melted cheese that makes every bite a little party in your mouth. The slow cooker does all the work, so the flavors get nice and cozy together without any fuss.
I love how easy this dip is to throw together, especially on busy days or when friends come over last minute. Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic while you relax or get other things ready. The smell fills the whole house with a spicy, cheesy goodness that always gets everyone excited to dig in.
My favorite way to serve this dip is with crunchy celery sticks and crispy tortilla chips—it’s such a great mix of creamy and crunchy textures. It’s a total crowd-pleaser for game days, potlucks, or just a fun snack night. Once you try it, I bet you’ll make it your go-to recipe whenever you want something simple, tasty, and comforting.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken makes this recipe super easy and flavorful. If you don’t have rotisserie, cooked shredded chicken breast or thighs work great too.
Cream Cheese: This gives the dip its creamy texture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing. For a lighter option, try reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt, though it may be less rich.
Buffalo Hot Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is the classic choice for that signature tang. You can adjust the amount or switch to a milder hot sauce if you prefer less heat.
Dressings: Ranch or blue cheese dressing add creaminess and balance out the spice. If avoiding dairy, try a dairy-free ranch or a simple combo of mayo and a splash of vinegar.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts well and adds flavor. Feel free to mix with mozzarella for extra melty goodness or swap for pepper jack if you want an extra kick.
Blue Cheese: Optional but classic topping. If you don’t like blue cheese, chopped extra green onions or sliced jalapeños make great garnishes.
How Do I Make Sure the Dip Cooks Evenly in the Crockpot?
Slow cooking helps all the flavors blend, but stirring is key to prevent lumps and hot spots.
- After combining all ingredients, stir well to mix everything evenly.
- Cook on low for 2 to 3 hours—low heat is gentler and helps melt the cheese without separating it.
- Halfway through, open the crockpot and give the dip a good stir. This redistributes heat and keeps the texture smooth.
- Keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain heat and moisture.
- If the dip seems too thick at the end, stir in a little milk or extra dressing to loosen.
Following these steps ensures your dip comes out creamy, cheesy, and perfectly heated through, ready for dipping!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot (slow cooker) – I like using a slow cooker because it keeps the dip warm and melts everything evenly without me having to watch over it.
- Mixing spoon or spatula – a sturdy spoon makes stirring the ingredients together and giving it a good mix halfway through easy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – precise measurements ensure the dip turns out flavorful without being too spicy or bland.
- Serving dish or bowl – for transferring the hot dip to a nice presentation bowl for serving.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked shredded turkey or pork instead of chicken for a different protein twist that still works great with buffalo sauce.
- Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper if you want extra heat and spice.
- Mix in some cooked chopped bacon for smoky richness and crunch.
- Swap blue cheese for shredded mozzarella or pepper jack for a milder cheese option or more heat.
Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup buffalo hot 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, for topping)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and about 2 to 3 hours to cook in the crockpot. The slow cooking lets all the flavors meld together perfectly with minimal effort from you.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Put the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo hot sauce, ranch or blue cheese dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese into your crockpot. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
2. Cook Slowly
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. About halfway through, give the dip a good stir to make sure it heats evenly and melts nicely.
3. Serve and Garnish
When the dip is hot and bubbly, you can scoop it into a serving bowl if you like. Sprinkle the top with crumbled blue cheese and sliced green onions for a fresh, tasty touch.
4. Enjoy with Your Favorite Dippers
Serve the dip warm with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers. It’s creamy, spicy, and perfect for sharing with friends and family!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before shredding. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost function on your microwave for faster prepping.
Can I Prepare This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Mix all the ingredients and refrigerate the mixture overnight. When ready, pour it into the crockpot and cook as directed. It helps the flavors meld even more!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a small pot on the stove, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Can I Make This Dip Spicier or Milder?
Yes! Adjust the buffalo sauce amount to your taste. Use less for a milder dip or add extra for heat. You can also add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for more spice.