The Best Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe Easy, Spicy & Cheesy

Introduction

Buffalo chicken dip is the life of every party, game night, or casual get-together. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with a spicy kick, all thanks to Frank’s RedHot Sauce. But what makes Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe stand out from other variations? It’s the perfect balance of flavors—spicy, tangy, and rich.

If you’ve never made this dip before, don’t worry. This guide walks you through every single step—from gathering the ingredients to serving up a batch that will have everyone scraping the bowl. Plus, we’ll explore different cooking methods, fun variations, and expert tips to ensure your dip is always a crowd-pleaser.

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Part 1: Introduction and Background

Introduction to Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

Let’s be real—who doesn’t love a good dip? Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip is the kind of recipe that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. It’s creamy, spicy, and absolutely addicting, making it the perfect dish for game nights, potlucks, or even a quick snack.

The first time I made this dip, I was skeptical. Could something so simple really taste as amazing as people claimed? Spoiler alert: It absolutely does. The combination of shredded chicken, Frank’s RedHot Sauce, and a blend of cheeses creates a warm, gooey, flavor-packed dish that keeps people coming back for more.

But here’s the kicker—it’s ridiculously easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can have this dip ready in no time. Whether you bake it in the oven, cook it in a slow cooker, or whip it up in an Instant Pot, it turns out fantastic every single time.

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History of Buffalo Chicken Dip

Where did this dip even come from? The origins of Buffalo chicken dip trace back to the invention of Buffalo wings in the 1960s at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York. The wings were tossed in Frank’s RedHot Sauce, and people fell in love with the spicy, tangy, buttery flavor.

Naturally, creative food lovers began experimenting, wondering how they could enjoy the same flavors in different ways. Enter: Buffalo chicken dip. Instead of wings, shredded chicken is mixed with hot sauce, cream cheese, and cheese—essentially deconstructing the famous wings into a scoopable, melty, delicious dip.

Over the years, the dip has evolved, with countless variations popping up. Some add ranch dressing, others use blue cheese, and some go all out with extra spice. But no matter the version, one thing remains constant: Frank’s RedHot Sauce is the go-to choice for achieving that authentic Buffalo flavor.

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Why Choose Frank’s RedHot Sauce?

Now, you might be wondering—why does every Buffalo chicken dip recipe call for Frank’s RedHot Sauce? The answer is simple: it’s the original Buffalo sauce.

Here’s what sets it apart:

• Perfect Heat Level: It’s spicy, but not overpowering.
• Tangy and Buttery: It has that signature vinegar kick that balances the heat.
• Time-Tested Flavor: It’s been around for over 100 years, and it’s the same sauce that made Buffalo wings famous.

Unlike other hot sauces that are just heat for the sake of heat, Frank’s RedHot Sauce brings depth of flavor. It enhances the richness of the cream cheese and cheese in the dip, creating a well-rounded taste instead of just an overwhelming burn.

If you’re tempted to swap it out for another hot sauce, think twice. There’s a reason Frank’s has remained the gold standard for Buffalo flavor—it just works.

Part 2: Ingredients and Preparation

Essential Ingredients for Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

To make the best Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip, you need the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors. Here’s everything you’ll need, along with expert tips for the best results.

Core Ingredients:

• Shredded Chicken (2 cups) – The heart of the dip. You can use boiled, baked, or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Frank’s RedHot Sauce (½ cup) – The key ingredient that gives the dip its classic Buffalo kick. It’s tangy, spicy, and perfectly balanced.
• Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – Creates a smooth, creamy base. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Ranch Dressing (½ cup) – Adds a cool, herby contrast to the heat. Blue cheese dressing can be used for a more authentic Buffalo wing taste.
• Shredded Cheese (1 cup total, a mix of cheddar and mozzarella) – Cheddar provides sharpness, while mozzarella adds gooeyness.
• Blue Cheese Crumbles (optional, ¼ cup) – For those who love the traditional Buffalo wing pairing.
• Green Onions (for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and mild oniony freshness.

Substitutions & Pro Tips:

• Dairy-Free? Use vegan cream cheese and a dairy-free shredded cheese blend.
• Less Spicy? Reduce the Frank’s RedHot Sauce and add extra ranch dressing for a milder flavor.
• Extra Kick? Sprinkle in cayenne pepper or use Frank’s XTRA Hot Sauce for more heat.

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Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Making Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip is incredibly simple, but a few key steps will ensure the best results. Let’s break it down.

Preparing the Chicken

The best dip starts with juicy, well-prepared chicken. Here are three easy methods to get it done:

• Boiling: Place two boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a pot of boiling water. Simmer for about 15 minutes until cooked through, then shred with two forks.
• Baking: Season the chicken lightly with salt and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Let it rest before shredding.
• Rotisserie Chicken (Best Shortcut!): Grab a store-bought rotisserie chicken and shred the breast meat—it’s quick, easy, and super flavorful.

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Combining Ingredients

To get that signature creamy, well-blended texture, follow these steps:

1. Soften the cream cheese: Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes or microwave it for 15 seconds.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, Frank’s RedHot Sauce, and ranch dressing until smooth.
3. Add the shredded chicken: Fold in the prepared chicken, ensuring it’s well coated in the creamy mixture.
4. Stir in the cheese: Add half the shredded cheese and mix well. Save the rest for topping.
5. Optional: If you love the bold flavor of blue cheese, sprinkle in the crumbles here.

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Baking Instructions

Now for the best part—getting that golden, bubbly top! Follow these baking tips:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Spread evenly.
3. Top with remaining shredded cheese. This creates that delicious melty crust.
4. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
5. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. This prevents burning your mouth and helps the dip thicken slightly.

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Alternative Cooking Methods

Don’t feel like turning on the oven? No problem! Here’s how to make Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip in a slow cooker or Instant Pot.

Slow Cooker Method

Using a slow cooker is perfect for parties—it keeps the dip warm for hours.

1. Set your slow cooker to low.
2. Add all ingredients, except for half of the shredded cheese. Stir well.
3. Cook on low for 2–3 hours or on high for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
4. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top in the last 20 minutes to let it melt.
5. Serve straight from the slow cooker or transfer to a serving dish.

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Instant Pot Method

If you’re in a hurry, the Instant Pot gets the job done in minutes.

1. Place raw chicken breasts in the Instant Pot with Frank’s RedHot Sauce and ¼ cup water.
2. Pressure cook on HIGH for 10 minutes (or 12 minutes if frozen).
3. Quick release the pressure and shred the chicken inside the pot.
4. Stir in cream cheese, ranch, and shredded cheese while the dip is still hot.
5. Switch to “Keep Warm” mode and serve straight from the pot.

Part 4: Nutritional Information and Storage

Nutritional Breakdown

Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip is undeniably delicious, but how does it stack up nutritionally? Here’s a rough estimate per ¼ cup serving:

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: ~12g (thanks to the chicken and cheese)
• Fat: ~18g (from cream cheese, shredded cheese, and dressing)
• Carbs: ~3g (mostly from dairy products)
• Sodium: ~600mg (due to hot sauce and cheese)

While this dip is low in carbs, it’s relatively high in fat and sodium, which means it’s not the lightest option on the table. But don’t worry—you can modify it to be more diet-friendly without sacrificing taste!

How to Make It Healthier

• Swap full-fat cream cheese for Greek yogurt or reduced-fat cream cheese to cut down on calories and fat while keeping it creamy.
• Use grilled or poached chicken breast instead of rotisserie chicken, which often has extra salt and seasoning.
• Reduce cheese by half and add extra chicken to increase protein without as much fat.
• Opt for a low-sodium hot sauce or cut back on added salt to reduce sodium levels.
• Use a light ranch or Greek yogurt-based dressing instead of regular ranch.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Buffalo chicken dip is just as good the next day—if you store and reheat it properly. Here’s how to keep it fresh and creamy for leftovers.

Refrigeration

1. Cool the dip completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make it watery.
2. Transfer to an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers with a tight seal work best.
3. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Any longer, and the dairy may start to separate.

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Reheating

To keep the rich, creamy texture when reheating, follow these simple steps:

1. Microwave Method: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent separation. Add a splash of milk if needed to smooth it out.
2. Oven Method: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place dip in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15–20 minutes until heated through.
3. Slow Cooker Method: If you originally made it in a slow cooker, set it to LOW and stir occasionally until warm.

Part 5: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Buffalo chicken dip is a crowd-favorite, but there are always a few burning questions people ask before making it. Whether you’re wondering about ingredient swaps, flavor differences, or dressing choices, we’ve got you covered!

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Can I use Frank’s Wing Sauce for Buffalo Chicken Dip?

Yes, you can use Frank’s RedHot Wing Sauce instead of their Original Hot Sauce, but there’s a key difference. Frank’s Wing Sauce already contains butter and seasonings, which makes it slightly milder and creamier than the Original Hot Sauce.

If you want a richer, buttery Buffalo flavor without adding extra melted butter, wing sauce is a great choice. However, if you prefer to control the heat and richness manually, stick with Frank’s Original Hot Sauce and add melted butter separately.

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What Ingredients Do You Need for Buffalo Chicken Dip?

The core ingredients of Buffalo chicken dip are:

• Shredded chicken (cooked and shredded)
• Frank’s RedHot Sauce (for the classic Buffalo heat)
• Cream cheese (for a creamy base)
• Shredded cheese (cheddar + mozzarella for meltiness)
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing (adds a cool contrast to the heat)

Optional extras: green onions for garnish, blue cheese crumbles for tang, or extra spices for more heat

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What’s the Difference Between Frank’s Hot Sauce and Frank’s Buffalo Sauce?

Both are delicious, but they’re not the same!

• Frank’s RedHot Original Sauce: Pure cayenne pepper hot sauce with vinegar and salt. It’s tangy, spicy, and perfect for cooking or adding heat to any dish.
• Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce: A pre-made Buffalo sauce that contains butter and extra seasonings, making it creamier and slightly milder.

For Buffalo chicken dip, both work, but Frank’s Original Hot Sauce gives you more control over the spice and butter levels. If you want a classic wing flavor without adjusting the recipe, wing sauce is an easy swap.

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Do You Put Ranch or Blue Cheese in Buffalo Chicken Dip?

It depends on personal preference!

• Ranch dressing – A creamier, milder option that balances the heat with its herby, tangy flavor. It’s the most common choice in Buffalo chicken dip.
• Blue cheese dressing – A bolder, more traditional pairing. If you love classic Buffalo wings with blue cheese, you’ll love this addition!

Part 6: Conclusion

Final Thoughts on Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

At this point, there’s no denying it—Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip is a must-have dish for game days, parties, or even just a cozy night in. It’s the perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and cheesy goodness, all wrapped up in an easy-to-make recipe. Whether you prefer it baked in the oven, simmered in a slow cooker, or quickly whipped up in an Instant Pot, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

One of the best things about this dip? Its versatility. You can adjust the spice level, switch up the cheese, or even make a healthier version without losing its signature flavor. Love blue cheese? Add more crumbles. Want it extra creamy? Mix in some Greek yogurt. Need it milder? Reduce the hot sauce and add more ranch dressing.

Personal Experience:

Having tried Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe on multiple occasions, I can attest to its rich, creamy texture and the perfect balance of heat and tanginess. It’s always a crowd

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own—that’s the beauty of cooking! Try serving it with different dippers, mixing in new flavors, or even turning leftovers into Buffalo chicken quesadillas or sandwiches.

No matter how you enjoy it, this dip is guaranteed to disappear fast. So grab a bag of chips, some veggies, and dig in—because Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip never disappoints! 🔥🧀

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With this, you now have the ultimate guide to making, serving, and storing this legendary dip. Ready to impress your guests? Get cooking and enjoy! 🚀

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