Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and always a hit. The combination of tangy buffalo sauce, rich melted cheese, and tender shredded chicken creates a dip that’s both hearty and addictive. It’s smooth, creamy, and perfectly balanced between spicy and savory. Plus, I can make it ahead of time or keep it warm in a slow cooker so it’s ready whenever I am.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
1 tbsp butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Rotel), drained
1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
1/2 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Optional Toppings:
Sliced green onions
Crumbled blue cheese
Diced celery
Extra buffalo sauce drizzle

Directions

1. Sauté the aromatics (optional): In a large skillet over medium heat, I melt the butter. I add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Then I add the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Add the tomatoes and chicken: I stir in the drained diced tomatoes and shredded chicken, letting them heat through for about 2 minutes.

3. Mix in sauces and cream cheese: I add the buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and ranch (or blue cheese) dressing. I stir until the cream cheese melts and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

4. Add the cheese: I reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. I keep stirring until everything is fully melted and combined into a luscious, cheesy dip.

5. Serve: I transfer the dip to a serving bowl or small slow cooker to keep it warm. I top it with green onions, blue cheese crumbles, diced celery, or a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce for presentation.

Servings and Timing

Serves 8–10 as an appetizer
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

I like to mix it up with fun add-ins like corn, or diced jalapeños for extra flavor and texture. When I want a smokier taste, I use chipotle buffalo sauce or add a pinch of smoked paprika. For a spicier dip, I increase the buffalo sauce or stir in a bit of cayenne pepper. I also love swapping ranch for blue cheese dressing when I want that bold, tangy bite.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth again. If it thickens, I stir in a splash of milk or cream. For parties, I like to keep it in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting so it stays melty and ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day ahead. I store it covered in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stove or in a slow cooker before serving.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, though freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken has better texture and flavor.

How spicy is this dip?

It depends on the buffalo sauce I use. I can make it mild, medium, or hot by adjusting the sauce or adding extra spice.

Can I make it in a slow cooker from start to finish?

Yes, I combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally until smooth and heated through.

What cheese melts best for this dip?

Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, while mozzarella adds stretchiness. I like using both for the perfect texture.

What can I serve with it?

I love serving it with tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, pretzel bites, or toasted baguette slices.

Can I make it lighter?

Yes, I use reduced-fat cream cheese and light ranch dressing for a lower-calorie version.

What’s the best way to keep it warm at parties?

I transfer it to a small slow cooker on the “warm” setting so it stays creamy and melty.

Can I use blue cheese instead of ranch?

Yes, blue cheese dressing adds a tangier, bolder flavor that pairs perfectly with buffalo sauce.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

I don’t recommend freezing since cream cheese and melted cheese can separate after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Conclusion

I love how this buffalo chicken queso dip brings together the heat of buffalo wings and the creaminess of melted cheese in one unforgettable bite. It’s rich, tangy, and always the first dish to disappear at any gathering. Whether I scoop it with chips, veggies, or bread, it’s the ultimate dip for any occasion—bold, cheesy, and irresistibly good.