Name: Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional); Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional); Chips, celery sticks, or crackers, for serving

Jump to Recipe

This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and spicy appetizer that’s perfect for game days, parties, or any casual gathering. It combines tender shredded chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, rich cream cheese, and melted cheese—all slow-cooked to perfection. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dip is sure to be a crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers everything you want in a hot dip—spicy heat from buffalo sauce, smooth creaminess from the cheese, and the satisfying heartiness of shredded chicken. Using a slow cooker makes it incredibly easy and hands-off, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully while you focus on other things. It’s also incredibly versatile and customizable to your heat preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked and shredded chicken
Cream cheese, softened
Buffalo wing sauce
Ranch or blue cheese dressing
Shredded cheddar cheese
Optional: crumbled blue cheese, chopped green onions for garnish

Directions

In a slow cooker, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and ranch (or blue cheese) dressing.
Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir again.
Cover and cook on low for 2–3 hours, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
Stir the dip once or twice during cooking to ensure even heating.
Once fully heated and melted, give it a final stir and serve warm.
Garnish with chopped green onions or crumbled blue cheese, if desired.
Serve with tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, or crusty bread.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 2–3 hours (in slow cooker on low)
Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Spicier Dip: Use extra-hot buffalo sauce or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Milder Flavor: Use mild buffalo sauce and more ranch or blue cheese dressing to tone down the heat.
Cheese Options: Try using Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Greek Yogurt Substitute: Swap out some or all of the cream cheese with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with canned jackfruit or a plant-based chicken alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the slow cooker on low until hot.
Freezing: Not recommended, as dairy-based dips can separate when frozen and thawed.

FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for buffalo chicken dip?

Use any cooked and shredded chicken such as rotisserie chicken, baked chicken breast, or leftover grilled chicken. Just ensure it’s well-shredded.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix all the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready, cook in the slow cooker as directed.

Is ranch or blue cheese dressing better?

This depends on personal taste. Ranch offers a milder, creamier flavor, while blue cheese adds a tangy and bold note. Either works well.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, canned chicken is a convenient option. Be sure to drain it well and break it apart before mixing.

Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook it on high for 1–1.5 hours instead of low for 2–3 hours, but stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Can I make this dip in the oven?

Yes, combine all ingredients in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

How can I keep the dip warm for a party?

Keep it on the “warm” setting in the slow cooker during the event, stirring occasionally.

What can I serve with buffalo chicken dip?

Tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, pita chips, baguette slices, or even pretzels pair well with this dip.

Can I make this dip dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese, shredded cheese, and dressing substitutes. Choose plant-based options that melt well.

What should I do if my dip is too thick?

Add a small amount of milk, chicken broth, or extra dressing to thin it out while it’s still warm, stirring to combine.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip is a must-have appetizer for any gathering. Its spicy, creamy texture makes it addictive and satisfying, and the slow cooker makes preparation almost effortless. Whether you’re entertaining a crowd or just craving something comforting, this dip is sure to impress with both flavor and convenience.