Buffalo Ranch Chicken and Cheese Dip
This Buffalo Ranch Chicken and Cheese Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with a kick of spicy buffalo flavor. It’s perfect for gatherings when you want something hearty without the hassle of a full meal.
With just a few simple ingredients like shredded chicken, cream cheese, and tangy buffalo sauce, this dip is as easy to make as it is delicious. The Colby-Monterey Jack cheese on top melts into a golden, bubbly layer, making every bite irresistible.
Serve it with crunchy tortilla scoops for the perfect balance of creamy and crispy. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual snack, this dip is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Buffalo Ranch Chicken and Cheese Dip – Ingredients
Shredded chicken brings heartiness and a savory base to this dip, perfectly complemented by the richness of softened cream cheese. Buffalo wing sauce adds a bold, spicy kick, while ranch dressing and sour cream deliver a creamy, tangy balance. Finally, shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese melts into a golden, gooey layer, enhancing the dip’s comforting texture and flavor.
Buffalo Ranch Chicken and Cheese Dip: Tips, Serving Suggestions & FAQs
Recipe Tips
- Customize the Spice Level: If you’re serving a crowd with varying heat tolerance, adjust the buffalo sauce amount. Reducing the buffalo wing sauce to 1/4 cup will give the dip a milder kick while still maintaining its signature flavor. For those who love heat, feel free to increase the buffalo sauce or even add a dash of hot sauce for extra intensity.
- Ensure the Right Consistency: To get that perfect creamy dip texture, make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing. This allows for a smoother, more uniform consistency when combining with the other ingredients. If the dip seems too thick after baking, stir in a little extra sour cream or ranch dressing to loosen it up.
- Bake for Maximum Melt: To get the ideal golden, bubbly top, bake the dip until the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Don’t rush this step! The longer the cheese melts and integrates into the creamy base, the more flavorful the dip will be. For an even richer finish, broil the dip for 1-2 minutes at the end to achieve that beautiful, golden top layer.
What to Serve with Buffalo Ranch Chicken and Cheese Dip
- Multigrain Tortilla Chips: The dip’s richness pairs wonderfully with crispy, multigrain tortilla scoops. The hearty crunch balances the creamy dip while adding a wholesome touch. Opt for scoop-shaped chips so guests can enjoy the perfect bite with every dip.
- Vegetable Crudités: For a fresh contrast to the dip’s creamy texture, serve it alongside a platter of sliced vegetables like carrots, celery, bell peppers, and cucumbers. This not only adds a refreshing crunch but also provides a healthier option for those who prefer a lighter snack.
- Fresh Bread or Soft Pretzels: For an extra indulgent pairing, serve this dip with freshly baked bread, warm soft pretzels, or toasted baguette slices. The soft bread soaks up the flavorful dip, making each bite satisfyingly rich and hearty.
FAQ
- Can I make Buffalo Ranch Chicken and Cheese Dip ahead of time?
Yes! This dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply prepare the dip, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Colby-Monterey Jack cheese provides the perfect melt and flavor balance, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for an extra zing. Just keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly. - Can I make this dip in a slow cooker instead of the oven?
Yes, you can! To make this dip in a slow cooker, combine all ingredients (except for the cheese topping) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours. Once heated through, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and let it melt before serving. - How can I make this dip vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with shredded cauliflower or another plant-based substitute. You can also add beans for a bit of extra protein and texture while keeping the dip creamy and delicious.
Buffalo Ranch Chicken and Cheese Dip
This creamy and filling Buffalo Ranch Chicken Dip is the perfect choice for a casual gathering. Offering a flavorful combination of tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and tangy ranch dressing, it serves as a satisfying snack or appetizer when mealtime is still a little way off. Paired with multigrain tortilla scoops, it provides a delightful contrast of textures that will have your guests reaching for more.
Ingredients
- Shredded chicken breasts 2, cooked
- Cream cheese 8 oz, softened
- Buffalo wing sauce ½ cup
- Ranch salad dressing ¼ cup
- Sour cream ¼ cup
- Shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese 1 ½ cups
- Scoop-shaped tortilla chips 16 oz package
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, ranch dressing, and sour cream. Mix until fully integrated. Transfer the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with the shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Serve hot with tortilla chips.
Notes
For a milder version of this dip, reduce the buffalo sauce to ¼ cup while maintaining the dip’s signature flavor. For fans of extra heat, feel free to add more buffalo sauce. Alternatively, swap the ranch dressing for blue cheese dressing for a more authentic hot wing flavor.
