Best Cheeses For Buffalo Chicken Dip: A Tasty Guide

Buffalo chicken dip is a classic party appetizer or snack. The dip is made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, hot sauce, and lots of cheese. The cheese is usually a combination of sharp cheddar cheese and Monterey jack, but you can use any combination of your favourite cheeses, such as mozzarella, blue cheese crumbles, Colby jack, or pepper jack.

Cheddar cheese

Buffalo chicken dip is a popular appetizer, often served at parties and game-day get-togethers. It is a tangy, creamy dip that mimics the spicy flavour of buffalo chicken wings. The dip typically includes chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, ranch dressing, and cheese. While various cheeses can be used, this article will focus on the use of Cheddar cheese in buffalo chicken dip.

Ingredients

The following ingredients are required to make buffalo chicken dip with cheddar cheese:

• Chicken: You can use canned, shredded chicken, rotisserie chicken, or cook and shred your own chicken breasts.
• Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy incorporation into the dip.
• Hot Sauce: Use your preferred brand of hot pepper sauce, such as Frank's RedHot, to add spice and heat to the dip.
• Ranch Dressing: A cup of ranch dressing adds creaminess and tanginess to the dip.
• Cheddar Cheese: This is the star ingredient that creates a gooey, cheesy texture and flavour. You can use shredded or block cheddar cheese and mix it into the dip or sprinkle it on top.

Preparation

• Heat the chicken and hot sauce in a skillet until heated through.
• Mix in the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing. Stir until well blended and warm.
• Add half of the cheddar cheese and stir until incorporated.
• Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker or baking dish.
• Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
• Bake in the oven or cook in the slow cooker until the dip is hot and bubbly.

Serving

Buffalo chicken dip with cheddar cheese can be served with a variety of dippers, including:

• Celery sticks
• Crackers (chicken-flavoured or plain)
• Corn or tortilla chips
• Toasted baguette slices
• Homemade pita chips or pita bread

Storage

Buffalo chicken dip can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To store, transfer the cooled dip to an airtight container. To reheat, use a stove or microwave in short intervals.

You can also freeze the dip for up to three months. However, the texture may change slightly after freezing and thawing due to the cream cheese and ranch dressing. To freeze, spread the cooled dip on a lined baking sheet, cover, and freeze until solid. Then, cut it into serving-sized portions and store in freezer-safe containers.

Blue cheese

Some recipes suggest using blue cheese dressing instead of ranch dressing. You can also use blue cheese dressing as a garnish, drizzling it on top of the dip after it is done baking.

Cream cheese

When making buffalo chicken dip, it's crucial to pay attention to the temperature and consistency of the cream cheese. If the cream cheese is too cold, it may not blend smoothly with the other ingredients, resulting in a lumpy dip. On the other hand, if the cream cheese is too soft or warm, it can become runny and affect the overall texture of the dip.

In summary, cream cheese is a pivotal component in buffalo chicken dip, contributing to its creamy texture and tangy flavour. Its versatility allows for substitutions and adjustments to suit personal preferences, but attention to temperature and consistency is key to achieving the perfect dip.

Ranch dressing

Ingredients

A homemade ranch dressing typically combines sour cream and mayonnaise as the base, seasoned with dried herbs and spices such as garlic powder, dill, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Buttermilk can also be used as the base instead of sour cream, creating a tangier flavour profile. Fresh herbs such as dill and chives can be added for a more intense flavour.

Preparation

Preparing ranch dressing is straightforward. Simply whisk together the base ingredients (mayonnaise, sour cream, and/or buttermilk) with the desired seasonings. It is recommended to prepare the dressing ahead of time, as the flavours need time to meld and develop. Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to two weeks.

Uses

Frank's RedHot sauce

Franks RedHot Sauce Buffalo Chicken Dip

Buffalo chicken dip is a creamy, tangy, and spicy dip that captures the flavours of Buffalo chicken wings without the mess. It's an ideal party appetizer, especially for game day or tailgate get-togethers. This dip is easy to make and can be prepared in a slow cooker, oven, or air fryer. Here's a detailed guide on how to make it using Frank's RedHot Sauce:

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226g) of softened cream cheese
• 2 cups (473ml) of Frank's RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce or Frank's RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce
• 1/2 cup (118ml) of blue cheese or ranch salad dressing
• 2 cups (473ml) of shredded cooked chicken
• 1/2 cup (57g) of crumbled blue cheese or your favourite shredded cheese (optional: cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack)
• Crackers or vegetables, such as celery sticks, cucumbers, carrots, cauliflower, and peppers, for serving

Oven Method:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C).
• In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, Frank's RedHot Sauce, salad dressing, shredded chicken, and crumbled cheese until well combined.
• Transfer the mixture to a 1-quart (946ml) baking dish.
• Bake for about 20 minutes or until the mixture is heated through and bubbly.
• Garnish with green onions and additional blue cheese, if desired.
• Serve warm with crackers or vegetables on the side.

Slow Cooker Method:

• Combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker, except for the optional extra cheese.
• Cover and cook on the high setting for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until heated through.
• Stir the mixture until well combined, then top with the remaining cheese if desired, and sprinkle with green onions.
• Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
• Serve sprinkled with blue cheese crumbles if desired, and enjoy with crackers or vegetables.

Air Fryer Method:

• Prepare the dip mixture by following the recipe instructions.
• Place the dip mixture in an oven-safe dish that fits in your air fryer basket or tray.
• Air fry at 350°F (176°C) for approximately 16 minutes.
• Serve warm with your choice of dippers.

Tips and Variations:

• For a non-dairy option, use non-dairy cheese substitutes.
• If you prefer less spice, you can halve the amount of hot sauce and increase the ranch dressing to one full cup.
• If you enjoy extra spice, opt for Frank's extra-hot buffalo sauce.
• For added crunch, top the dip with French's Crispy Fried Onions.
• Instead of shredded cheese, you can use blue cheese dressing or ranch dressing for a creamier texture.
• If you're serving this dip as an appetizer, consider pairing it with celery sticks for a low-carb and keto-friendly option.
• You can make this dip ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it slowly in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• For freezing, place the cooled dip in a sealed container and store it in the freezer for up to three months.

Frequently asked questions