There’s nothing quite like the cozy warmth of a party spread, and this Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip is the perfect centerpiece to ignite the excitement! Just picture it: the creamy dip bubbling in the oven, golden and inviting, while the tangy aroma of Frank’s Red Hot sauce fills the room, beckoning friends and family to gather around.
I discovered this gem during one of our infamous game nights—everyone brought snacks, but I wanted something that would steal the spotlight. With a blend of tender chicken, rich cream cheese, and a kick of heat, this dish has become a staple, easily customized for everyone from spice lovers to those who prefer milder flavors.
Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or just need a delicious snack for movie night, this crowd-pleaser promises to elevate any occasion. Plus, its simple preparation allows you to kick back and enjoy the moments that matter most, rather than being stuck in the kitchen. Get ready to dive into a recipe that caters to your taste and makes you the star of the gathering!
Why is Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip irresistible?
Creamy goodness: This dip combines rich cream cheese with tender chicken, creating a velvety texture that everyone will love.
Adjustable heat: Easily modify the spiciness to suit your crowd, whether you’re accommodating kids or heat-seekers.
Simple prep: With just a few ingredients and minimal fuss, you can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for spontaneous gatherings or planned events.
Crowd-pleaser: Its familiar flavors make it a hit at parties; your friends will rave about it, leaving you with the star dish everyone wants to recreate!
Meal prep friendly: Make it ahead of time and simply reheat for stress-free entertaining. For more delicious appetizers, check out our easy appetizer recipes.
Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip Ingredients
For the Dip
• Shredded Chicken – Provides the base texture and protein for the dip; can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Frank’s Red Hot Sauce – Adds spiciness and flavor, essential for the Buffalo taste; adjust the amount for milder heat or mix in ranch for a softer touch.
• Cream Cheese – Provides creaminess and richness, crucial for texture; can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
• Shredded Cheese (e.g., cheddar) – Melts into the dip, offering flavor and cohesiveness; use any meltable cheese you love.
• Ranch Dressing – Contributes additional flavor and creaminess; consider homemade or store-bought, adjusting quantity for a lighter dip.
Serving Suggestions
• Tortilla Chips – Perfect for scooping up every last bite of this Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip.
• Veggies (carrots, celery, bell peppers) – A fresh option that adds crunch and balances the rich dip.
• Crackers – Great for adding a bit of texture alongside the creamy dip.
Topping Optional
• Extra Shredded Cheese – A sprinkle on top before baking gives a lovely golden finish.
• Chopped Green Onions – Adds a pop of color and freshness when sprinkled just before serving.
How to Make Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dip will bake evenly and be bubbly when done.
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Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, Frank’s Red Hot sauce, cream cheese, and ranch dressing. Mix well until all the ingredients are perfectly blended and creamy.
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Incorporate Cheese: Gently stir in the shredded cheese, saving a bit to sprinkle on top later if you fancy that extra cheesy goodness.
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Bake: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is bubbly and slightly golden on the edges.
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Serve Warm: Allow the dip to cool slightly before serving. Pair it with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies to enjoy this savory treat!
Optional: Sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Helpful Tricks for Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip
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Perfect Chicken Shredding: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick, stress-free option. Shred with forks or your hands for even texture.
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Heat Levels: Always taste as you go when adjusting the Frank’s Red Hot sauce. Start with less and add more gradually for desired spice.
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Creamy Consistency: For an ultra-smooth dip, blend the cream cheese before mixing it in. This avoids any lumps and ensures a creamy dip.
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Flavor Boost: Add minced garlic or onion powder to elevate the flavor profile, making your dip even more irresistible!
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Reheating Tips: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of cream or milk to maintain creaminess, ensuring a delightful experience every time.
Make Ahead Options
These Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can mix the dip ingredients (shredded chicken, hot sauce, cream cheese, ranch dressing, and shredded cheese) up to 24 hours in advance and store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavors but also makes your day-of prep a breeze! To maintain quality, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to serve, simply transfer it to the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold. You’ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing dip ready to enjoy with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Fridge: Store leftover dip in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Freezer: Freeze the dip in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the dip in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Add a splash of cream for extra creaminess.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the dip a day in advance and store it in the fridge; simply reheat when ready to serve for your game day or party!
What to Serve with Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip?
This creamy, spicy dip is just the beginning of a fantastic spread that will tantalize your taste buds and bring everyone together.
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Tortilla Chips: Perfectly crispy, these chips are a classic choice for scooping up every velvety bite of your dip.
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Fresh Veggies: Carrot sticks, celery, and bell pepper slices add a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the Buffalo chicken dip.
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Crackers: These provide a delightful texture contrast and can be a fun way to mix things up with various flavors.
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Pita Chips: A bit heartier than traditional chips, pita chips have a lovely crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the dip.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread: The pull-apart warmth of garlic bread complements the spicy flavors, making for an indulgent pairing that guests will love.
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Fruit Platter: A selection of sliced apples, pears, or grapes can offer a sweet contrast to the zing of the dip, refreshing the palate after each bite.
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Beer or Cider: A cold brew or crisp cider can cut through the spice, making them ideal companions for this appetizer.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a delightful finish, serve some cookies that add a sweet touch after the savory richness of the dip.
Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this delicious dip to fit your and your guests’ preferences!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lighter option that keeps all the creamy goodness.
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Low-Carb: For a keto-friendly twist, use a low-carb creamy substitute instead of ranch dressing and enjoy the rich flavor without the carbs.
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Kid-Friendly: Reduce the amount of Frank’s Red Hot sauce, or mix in a touch of ranch dressing to mellow the heat for little ones who might prefer a milder dip.
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Cheese Mix: Switch up the cheeses by adding mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor and extra gooey texture that will elevate this dip to new heights.
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Extra Heat: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for those who relish spicy food—it’s sure to make this dip a zesty delight!
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Smoky Flavor: Toss in a few drops of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to the mix for a deeper, more complex flavor profile that will intrigue your guests.
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Herb-Infused: Stir in some fresh or dried herbs like dill or chives for an aromatic twist that adds brightness to the creamy landscape of your dip.
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Vegetable Boost: Consider folding in some finely chopped spinach or artichokes for an extra layer of texture and nutrition, making this dip not only delicious but also a touch healthier!
Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe FAQs
What chicken can I use for Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip?
You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, but feel free to cook and shred your own chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer a homemade touch! Just ensure it’s cooked and shredded before mixing into your dip.
How should I store leftover Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or oven, stirring occasionally for even warmth. It’s the perfect solution for those late-night snack cravings!
Can I freeze Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the dip in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, stirring gently. If desired, add a splash of cream to restore creaminess!
How can I modify the spiciness of the dip?
Very simple! Start with a smaller amount of Frank’s Red Hot sauce to keep the spice level mild. You can taste as you go and gradually increase the spice level to your preference. For kids or those sensitive to heat, consider mixing in some ranch dressing for a milder flavor!
Are there any dietary alternatives for making this dip?
Yes indeed! For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or a specific dairy-free cream cheese. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, simply omit the ranch dressing or link it to a low-carb creamy substitute. You can easily adjust based on dietary needs!
What should I serve with Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip?
This dip pairs beautifully with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crunchy carrot sticks. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it with pita chips or even crispy crackers for a delightful textural contrast. The more the merrier!
Savor Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip for Epic Party Vibes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, Frank’s Red Hot sauce, cream cheese, and ranch dressing. Mix well until creamy.
- Gently stir in the shredded cheese, saving some for topping.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spread evenly, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.
- Optional: Sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.