Cheese Pairings For Buffalo Chicken Dip: The Best Combinations

Buffalo chicken dip is a popular dish for parties and game days. It is a tangy, creamy, spicy, and cheesy dip that is best served hot with crackers and celery sticks. The dip is made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, hot sauce, and shredded cheese. The chicken can be boiled and shredded or store-bought rotisserie chicken can be used. The hot sauce can be adjusted according to taste preferences. The dip is usually baked in the oven but can also be made in a slow cooker or crockpot. It can be served with tortilla chips, crackers, celery, carrot sticks, or toasted baguette slices.

What type of cheese is best?

There are several types of cheese that go well with buffalo chicken dip, and the choice is ultimately down to personal preference. Here are some options:

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for buffalo chicken dip. It has a satisfyingly gooey texture and a strong cheesy flavour. It can be mixed into the dip or sprinkled on top.

Monterey Jack Cheese

Monterey Jack cheese is another good option and is often combined with sharp cheddar cheese. It has a mild flavour and melts well, making it a great choice for dips.

Blue Cheese

Blue cheese is a common substitute for ranch dressing in buffalo chicken dip. It can be used as crumbles or dressing. Blue cheese adds a tangy flavour that pairs well with the spicy buffalo sauce.

Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella cheese is a mild, stretchy cheese that can be used in buffalo chicken dip. It melts well and is a good option for those who prefer a less sharp flavour.

Colby Jack Cheese

Colby Jack cheese is a combination of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses. It has a mild flavour and melts easily, making it suitable for dips.

Other Options

Other cheese options that can be used in buffalo chicken dip include pepper jack, gouda, and Colby cheese. You can also mix different cheeses together to create your own unique blend.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, you can use canned chicken to make buffalo chicken dip. It is a quick and easy alternative to cooking and shredding chicken breasts yourself. Canned chicken is also a good option if you are short on time and want to cut down on prep time.

To use canned chicken, simply drain the liquid from the can and shred the chicken. You can use a fork to shred the chicken or even use a hand mixer to make the process faster.

While canned chicken is a convenient option, some people prefer the taste and texture of fresh chicken. If you have the time, boiling and shredding chicken breasts yourself can result in a more authentic buffalo chicken dip.

Ultimately, the choice between canned and fresh chicken is a matter of personal preference. Both options can be used to make a delicious and crowd-pleasing buffalo chicken dip.

How long does it take to make?

The prep time for Buffalo Chicken Dip is minimal, taking only 5 to 10 minutes. However, the cooking time can vary depending on the method used.

Oven-Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip

If you're baking your Buffalo Chicken Dip, it should take between 20 and 40 minutes in the oven at 350°F.

Slow Cooker/Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip

For a slow cooker or crockpot, you're looking at a longer cooking time of 3 to 6 hours on a low setting. However, this method is great for serving at parties as you can keep the dip warm throughout the event.

Make-Ahead Buffalo Chicken Dip

You can also make Buffalo Chicken Dip a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, let the dish sit at room temperature while the oven preheats, and then bake as directed. This option is great if you're short on time the day of your event.

What can I serve it with?

There are many options for what to serve with buffalo chicken dip. Here are some ideas:

Vegetables

Raw vegetables are a great, healthy option to serve with buffalo chicken dip. Carrots, celery, radishes, and mini sweet peppers are all solid choices. You could also serve buffalo chicken dip with a side of salad.

Breads

Toasted baguette slices are a popular choice to serve with buffalo chicken dip. You could also try pita chips, pita bread, or tortilla chips. For an extra indulgent option, try serving the dip with a side of baked potatoes.

Crackers

There are many types of crackers that would work well with buffalo chicken dip. Some options include chicken-flavoured crackers, Simple Mills Almond or Pita Crackers, or Frito Scoops.

Chips

Tortilla chips are a classic dip accompaniment and would work well with buffalo chicken dip. For a healthier option, you could try carrot or celery chips.

Can I make it in advance?

Yes, you can make buffalo chicken dip in advance. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days before baking. If you want to make it more than five days in advance, you can freeze it for up to three months.

If you are making the dip ahead of time, you can save time by cooking the chicken beforehand. Poaching and shredding chicken takes around 40 minutes, so having the chicken ready will save you a lot of time. You can also prepare the entire dip and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.

If you are making the dip a day in advance, you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Frequently asked questions