Pic Credit: https://www.food.com/
Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip is a delicious, spicy and cheesy appetizer that is perfect for any occasion – be it a get together, games or parties. This one combines the soften chicken fully by shredding, the spiciness of Frank’s RedHot sauce, and creaminess of cream cheese and ranch dressing. The food is very simple to prepare and ideal for accompanying chips, celery or crackers. This is a great snack for a party, or any occasion when you need a tasty and impressive appetizer.
RECIPE INGREDIENTS
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup creamy ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- ½ cup Frank’s RedHot buffalo sauce
- 3 green onions (chopped)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
MEASURES & PRECAUTIONS
- Use Cooked Chicken: Check that the chicken is done before pulling as this will prevent having to redo the process again. Using rotisserie chicken is helpful.
- Soften Cream Cheese: One important thing to note is that the cream cheese should be soft, and that means leaving it to get to room temperature before applying the next step. This contributes to the end of having smooth consistency.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer less or more heat, feel free to change the amount of hot sauce from Frank. If you want less spicy then you can start with less also.
- Mix Thoroughly: Make sure to mix all ingredients to blend well so that you do not get lumps on the dip. To get a silky-smooth mixture it is advisable to use a hand mixer.
- Monitor Baking Time: Make sure not to over-bake by watching the dip while it is baking. The top should be golden brown and slightly more than merely crisp.
Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
INGREDIENTS NOTES
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Chicken Options: Best used cooked chicken and it keeps well for up to two days if stored in the fridge; options include poached, grilled or rotisserie. For distribution of the chicken in the dip, the shredded chicken proves most suitable.
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Cream Cheese Texture: Tips, the best texture should be got by softening the cream cheese. If busy, then it only takes about 10 seconds if placed inside a microwave oven.
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Cheese Variations: Don’t be afraid to switch the type of cheese: if you like pepper jack cheese add more heat, if you prefer an undertone of a lovely oak or hazelnut use gouda instead.
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Ranch vs. Blue Cheese: Select ranch if you want a slightly toned down dressing and for a stronger and better match for the buffalo sauce, use blue cheese.
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Storage Options: This means that if left over dip is left, it should be stored in a cooler or an airtight container to allow food to cool before being placed in a fridge and will last for about three days.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Oil a medium-sized casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
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Combine Ingredients: Mix the shredded chicken together with the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing (or blue cheese), Frank’s RedHot sauce, chopped green onions (save the green parts for garnish) and season with salt and pepper in a bowl. Stir until all your ingredients are well incorporated into the compound.
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Transfer Mixture: Carefully spread the chicken mixture over the base of the layered baking dish.
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Add Cheese Topping: Top this mixture with evenly spread shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
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Bake the Dip: After that, transfer the baking dish into the heated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the dip gets hot and Cheese is turned into golden brown.
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Cool Slightly & Serve: Take out from oven and allow to come to room temperature for approximately 5 minutes and then serve. You can serve with the green parts of green onions.
RECIPE TIPS & VARIATIONS
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Make Ahead: As mentioned, prepare the and the ingredients for the dip, one day before the event and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
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Freezing Option: They add that any leftover dip should be wrapped well and stored in a container to freeze. Refrigerate the dish overnight and reheat just before consuming the food.
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Serving Suggestions: Enjoy it with tortilla chips, celery, carrot sticks, pita bread or crackers.
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Spice It Up: For the spicy lovers, you may bring in diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper in case you want it hot.
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Quesadilla Filling: Incorporate the leftover dip into quesadillas and when preparing, add some more cheese.
EQUIPMENT
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Mixing bowl
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Casserole dish (9x13 inches)
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Nonstick cooking spray
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Spoon or spatula
Note
SERVING TIPS 💡
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Serve warm for optimal flavor and texture; this dip is best enjoyed hot out of the oven.
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Provide a variety of dippers such as tortilla chips, sliced vegetables (carrots, celery), or breadsticks to cater to different preferences.
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Consider setting out small bowls of additional toppings like diced green onions or extra hot sauce for guests to customize their servings.
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Pair with refreshing beverages like soda or beer to balance out the spiciness of the dip.
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For larger gatherings, double or triple the recipe to ensure there's enough for everyone.
If you're looking for another flavorful meal, check out this easy Delicious Chicken Apple Sausage Recipe.
