There are appetizers, and then there are legendary appetizers the kind that disappear before the commercial break is over. The Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip falls firmly into the latter category. This creamy, spicy, and outrageously cheesy dip takes all the iconic flavor of Buffalo wings and transforms it into a scoopable, irresistible experience that requires almost zero effort thanks to the magic of your slow cooker.
If you are hosting a football party, gearing up for a neighborhood potluck, or just craving the comforting flavors of savory, spicy chicken encased in a blanket of melted cheese, this recipe is your new best friend. Forget standing over the stove or constantly checking the oven; the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, ensuring the dip stays perfectly warm, gooey, and ready for dipping for hours on end. This is truly the essential recipe for any entertainer who wants maximum flavor with minimal stress. This definitive guide will walk you through creating the absolute best Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip, covering everything from choosing the right sauce to serving tips that make this appetizer a guaranteed home run.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
The culinary landscape is saturated with appetizer recipes, so what makes this specific method for preparing Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip stand out? It’s a perfect confluence of convenience, flavor intensity, and crowd appeal that few dishes can match. Once you try the slow cooker method, you’ll never go back to using the oven for this classic dip.
Unbeatable Convenience and Hands-Off Cooking
The primary advantage of using a slow cooker, often affectionately called a Crock Pot, is the set-it-and-forget-it nature of the cooking process. For large gatherings, time management is crucial. You can load the raw chicken and liquids into the crock pot hours before your guests arrive, allowing you to focus on other party preparations. The initial cooking phase gently poaches the chicken, making it incredibly tender and easy to shred right in the pot, absorbing the tangy Buffalo flavor from the inside out.
- Reduced Stress: No last-minute stirring or baking required.
- Perfect Temperature Control: After the dip is cooked, the “Keep Warm” setting maintains that ideal, liquid lava-like consistency without burning or hardening the edges. This is essential for party dips designed to last through several innings or commercial breaks.
- Minimal Cleanup: Everything happens in one pot, saving you from scrubbing multiple baking dishes.
The Perfect Marriage of Creaminess and Heat
Authentic Buffalo flavor demands a balance between fiery heat and rich, cooling dairy. This recipe achieves a sublime texture thanks to the combination of rich cream cheese and smooth ranch dressing. The cream cheese melts down to create a luxurious, thick base that holds all the shredded chicken and spices perfectly. Unlike some recipes that can dry out in the oven, this Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip remains moist and velvety.
We use a substantial amount of high-quality shredded cheddar cheese, not only for flavor but also for its superior melt. The fat content in the dairy ingredients helps buffer the Buffalo wing sauce, resulting in a flavor profile that is robustly spicy yet accessible to almost everyone at the party. If you prefer a blue cheese tang, substituting blue cheese dressing for the ranch in the recipe works beautifully and adds an authentic layer of complexity.
It’s a Certified Crowd-Pleaser
Let’s be honest: who doesn’t love Buffalo chicken? This flavor profile is universally adored, especially in appetizer form. The dip is versatile enough to satisfy both the chip lovers and the low-carb vegetable dippers. Whether served with classic tortilla chips, sturdy sliced baguette, or fresh crisp celery sticks, this Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip is always the first item to vanish from the buffet table. Its vibrant color and intoxicating aroma instantly draw guests in, proving that simplicity, when done right, is often the most successful strategy in entertaining.
Looking for another easy, cheesy crowd-pleaser? You might enjoy learning how to make this rich and savory Creamy, Dreamy Pimento Cheese, which also makes an excellent addition to any party spread.
Why You Should Master This Crock Pot Buffalo Dip Now
Beyond the simple enjoyment of a delicious snack, incorporating this specific recipe for Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip into your repertoire offers practical benefits that enhance your cooking confidence and your hosting capabilities. Mastering this technique transforms you from an average cook into a confident entertainer who knows how to deliver flavor seamlessly.
Superior Texture Control
One of the biggest complaints about oven-baked Buffalo chicken dips is that they can often develop a tough, crusty layer on top and around the edges. While delicious, this texture variation can sometimes make the dip difficult to scoop and serve consistently. The slow cooker method inherently solves this problem. Because the heat is distributed gently and evenly over a long period, the dip remains homogenous. The cheese melts into the sauce rather than baking into a solid sheet. This ensures that every single spoonful of this creamy Buffalo dip is just as smooth, hot, and gooey as the first.
Scalability and Versatility
Whether you are cooking for a small gathering of four or a massive tailgate party of forty, this recipe scales effortlessly. For a smaller crowd, you can halve the recipe using a 2-quart slow cooker. For a major event, you can double or triple the recipe in a large 6 to 8-quart slow cooker. The cooking times remain largely the same, only the final melting phase might require a few extra minutes.
Furthermore, this dip isn’t just an appetizer. The high protein and calorie content means it can easily transition into other meal formats:
- Quick Dinner: Spooned over baked potatoes or sweet potatoes.
- Game-Day Sandwich Filling: Served on toasted slider buns.
- High-Protein Salad Topper: Added cold or warm to a crisp bed of romaine lettuce.
Flavor Customization is Key
This recipe provides a solid foundation, but it is highly adaptable to your specific heat tolerance and flavor preferences. You can adjust the Buffalo wing sauce easily without affecting the structural integrity of the dip. Use a mild butter-based sauce for a family-friendly version, or crank up the Scoville scale with an extra fiery pepper sauce blend for the heat seekers. We also offer the option of ranch or blue cheese dressing, allowing you to perfectly tailor the creamy component.
Pro Tip: If you are serving a mixed crowd, prepare the dip as written (medium heat), and place a small bottle of hot sauce next to the slow cooker for guests who want to add an extra kick of spice to their individual serving.
The simplicity of the chicken cooking phase is also a major benefit. For a faster alternative to using raw chicken, you can utilize pre-cooked options (like rotisserie chicken), cutting the initial cooking time down to zero. You would simply add the pre-shredded chicken with the other ingredients in step two, reducing the total prep time for the entire dish to under five minutes. This speed makes this creamy Buffalo chicken dip an invaluable emergency appetizer.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for the Perfect Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip
Creating this iconic dip requires straightforward ingredients that are readily available at any grocery store. However, paying attention to the quality and preparation of a few key components will elevate the finished product significantly. The combination of textures tender chicken, smooth cream cheese, and gooey cheddar is what makes this dip unforgettable.
Essential Ingredients List
Meat and Dairy Base
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2-3 average-sized breasts): While the recipe calls for fresh chicken breasts, you can substitute 1 pound of already cooked, shredded chicken (like rotisserie chicken) to save significant time.
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese: This must be full-fat cream cheese, softened and cut into 1-inch cubes. Softening and cubing the cream cheese ensures it melts quickly and smoothly into the dip without leaving lumps.
- 1 cup ranch dressing: Use a high-quality, thick ranch dressing for the best flavor and texture. Alternatively, if you are a traditionalist who loves the classic wing pairing, substitute blue cheese dressing.
- 2 cups shredded cooked sharp cheddar cheese, divided: Using sharp cheddar provides a deeper, tangier flavor that stands up well to the Buffalo sauce. Avoid pre-shredded bagged cheese if possible. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent a truly smooth, creamy melt. Grating your own cheddar is worth the effort! (We will use 1 1/2 cups for the mix and 1/2 cup for the topping).
Flavor and Heat
- 1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce: This is the key flavor component. Franks RedHot Original is the classic choice, but feel free to experiment with your favorite brand. Remember that 1/2 cup provides a moderate, crowd-friendly heat level; increase up to 3/4 cup for extra heat, or decrease to 1/3 cup for a milder flavor.
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional): This is reserved for garnishing the top just before serving. It adds a wonderful burst of pungent flavor and a beautiful visual contrast. If you used blue cheese dressing, this topping is a must!
For Serving (Dippers)
A good dip needs sturdy transportation. Ensure you have a variety of these on hand:
- Tortilla chips (sturdy restaurant-style chips work best)
- Celery sticks and carrot sticks (mandatory counterpoint to the richness)
- Sliced baguette or sturdy crackers
The Importance of Ingredient Temperature and Preparation
Achieving the best texture for this Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip relies on proper ingredient prep, particularly concerning the dairy components. The cream cheese must be softened and cubed. If you throw cold cream cheese blocks into the slow cooker, they will take significantly longer to melt and require much more aggressive stirring, which can sometimes lead to scorching on the bottom of the pot.
Furthermore, when selecting your cheese, remember that the “sharp” quality of the cheddar is important. A mild cheddar will taste too subtle against the tang of the Buffalo sauce. If you want an exceptionally smooth dip, you can swap out half the sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack cheese, known for its superior melting properties. This blend will create a truly luxurious texture.
Necessary Tools and Utensils
Success with this Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip is made possible by the efficiency of specific kitchen tools. You don’t need fancy equipment, just the essentials for slow-cooking and shredding.
Required Equipment for Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Slow Cooker (4 to 6-Quart size): This is non-negotiable for this specific recipe method. A 4-quart size is ideal for the 1-pound recipe, while a 6-quart or larger is better if you plan on doubling it.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For cubing the cream cheese and safely handling the cooked chicken.
- Two Forks or Hand Mixer: The easiest way to shred the cooked chicken. Using two forks is traditional, but a hand mixer (on low speed) can shred a pound of hot chicken in mere seconds, which is a fantastic time-saver.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of the dressing and sauce.
- Sturdy Rubber Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Essential for stirring the dip without scratching the slow cooker insert, and for ensuring the creamy mixture is fully combined during the melting stage.
Using the right tools ensures that your focus remains on socializing and enjoying the party, rather than worrying about the food. The consistency and reliable heat retention provided by the slow cooker are the real secrets to the best-ever Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip.
Detailed Recipe Steps for Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip Perfection (850 words)
This recipe is split into four distinct, simple phases: cooking the chicken, shredding and combining, melting and finishing, and finally, serving. Following these steps ensures your dip is creamy, perfectly textured, and intensely flavored.
Phase 1: Cook the Chicken (The Flavor Infusion)
- Prep the Pot: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker insert (especially if it is an older model or you are worried about sticking).
- Add the Chicken and Liquids: Place the 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker. This ensures even cooking.
- Pour Flavor Over Top: Pour the 1/2 cup of Buffalo wing sauce and 1/4 cup of the ranch dressing directly over the chicken. The chicken will cook immersed in this spicy liquid, absorbing the foundational flavor of the dip.
- Cook Thoroughly: Cover the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, or on HIGH for 1.5 to 2 hours. The cooking time will vary based on the thickness of your chicken breasts and your slow cooker model. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and can be easily pulled apart with a fork.
🔥 Essential Cooking Tip: Do not peek! Every time you lift the lid of the slow cooker, you lose accumulated heat and moisture, potentially extending the cooking time by 15 to 20 minutes. Trust the process and let the chicken cook completely until fall-apart tender.
Phase 2: Shred and Combine (Building the Base)
Once the chicken is fully cooked, we shift our focus to turning the cooked components into the dip’s creamy core.
- Remove and Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a clean cutting board. Do not discard the flavorful liquid remaining in the slow cooker! This liquid (a mixture of Buffalo sauce, ranch, and chicken juices) is crucial for the final flavor and moisture of the dip.
- Shred the Meat: Use two forks to shred the chicken thoroughly. You want fine, pull-apart shreds that will blend seamlessly with the cheese mixture, not large chunks. If you’re utilizing the hand mixer trick, place the chicken in a large bowl and mix on low for 10-15 seconds until fully shredded, then return it to the slow cooker.
- Return Chicken and Add Cream Cheese: Put the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker, ensuring it mixes with the reserved liquid. Now, add the cubed, softened cream cheese. The heat from the residual liquid will immediately start melting the cream cheese.
- Add Remaining Creaminess and Cheese: Pour in the remaining 3/4 cup of ranch dressing. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Save the remaining 1/2 cup for the topping later.
💡 Trick for the Perfect Shred: Shredding the chicken immediately while it’s hot is easiest. If the chicken cools, it becomes tougher to handle. If you want a smoother final texture, ensure your chicken shreds are quite fine.
Phase 3: Melt and Finish (Achieving Velvety Smoothness)
This phase is dedicated to melting the dairy components into a homogenous, velvety smooth Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip.
- Stir to Combine: Stir all the ingredients vigorously with a rubber spatula until the cream cheese begins to dissolve into the liquid and incorporates with the shredded chicken. This initial stir is important to prevent pockets of unmixed cream cheese.
- Melt the Dip: Cover the slow cooker again and cook on LOW for an additional 30 to 45 minutes. This allows the cheddar cheese to fully melt and the flavors to marry completely.
- Stir Occasionally: During this melting time, stir the dip every 15 minutes. This is critical for distributing the heat, preventing the cheese from clumping, and stopping the mixture from scorching or sticking to the bottom of the pot. The dip is ready when it is hot, bubbly around the edges, and perfectly smooth and gooey throughout.
- Garnish (The Final Flourish): Just before serving (in the last 5 minutes), remove the lid and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the crumbled blue cheese (if using) evenly over the top of the hot dip. Replace the lid briefly, just long enough for this top layer of cheese to soften and melt slightly, creating a beautiful cap.
This technique guarantees your Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip is consistently creamy, ready to be presented to your eager guests. This easy method makes it a staple for any gathering, much like a hearty pot of Slow Cooker Chili is on a cold night.
Phase 4: Presentation and Serving
- Switch to Warm Setting: Once the dip is perfectly melted, switch your slow cooker setting immediately to KEEP WARM. This is the optimal setting for serving, as it maintains the perfect temperature and texture for hours without risking scorching.
- Serve Directly: Serve the hot, bubbly dip directly from the slow cooker insert. Place the slow cooker on a protected surface (like a trivet) in your serving area, surrounded by a generous selection of dippers.
- The Perfect Dipper Arrangement: Arrange your chips and vegetables strategically. The crunch of the tortilla chips provides a needed textural contrast, while the cool, crispness of celery sticks cuts through the richness, offering palate relief.
Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting for Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip
While this recipe is incredibly forgiving, a few expert tips and handy variations can help you customize it to any dietary need or party theme, ensuring your Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip is a resounding success every time.
Handling Common Problems
-
My Dip is Too Thin/Runny: This usually happens if you used a very watery ranch dressing or if your chicken was particularly juicy and released excess liquid.
- Fix: Remove the lid and turn the slow cooker up to HIGH for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows some excess liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, add 1-2 ounces more cubed cream cheese or a half cup more grated cheddar cheese to help thicken the dip naturally.
-
My Dip is Too Thick/Stiff: This is often a sign of over-cooking, or using too much pre-shredded, dry cheese.
- Fix: Stir in 1/4 cup of whole milk or a splash of chicken broth until the desired creamy consistency is achieved. Ensure your slow cooker is set to KEEP WARM, not LOW, during the serving period.
-
Preventing Sticking/Scorching: The edges of dairy-heavy dips are prone to scorching.
- Prevention: Always use the LOW or KEEP WARM settings for the melting and holding phases. Use a non-stick cooking spray before adding ingredients, and stir the dip frequently (every 15 minutes) during the final melting period.
Flavor and Ingredient Variations
This classic Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip can be adapted to suit various tastes. Remember that the balance of heat and creaminess is paramount.
For a Lighter Dip
Swap the full-fat cream cheese for Neufchatel cheese (1/3 less fat cream cheese) and use light ranch dressing. While the texture will be slightly less rich, the flavor remains intense. You can also replace the chicken breast with turkey breast for a marginally leaner protein source.
For Extra Heat (Fire Dip)
Increase the Buffalo wing sauce up to 3/4 cup. You can also mix in 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a small amount of finely diced pickled jalapeños during the final melting phase. For those who truly love heat, a dash of ghost pepper sauce can be introduced, but proceed with caution!
Using Pre-Cooked Chicken (The Super-Fast Method)
If you purchase a rotisserie chicken (which is typically 2 pounds, yielding plenty of meat), shred 1 pound and skip Phase 1 entirely. Combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, Buffalo sauce, and dressings directly in the slow cooker, and proceed with Phase 3 (melting and serving). This cuts the total time down to under an hour.
Vegan/Vegetarian Buffalo Dip
A surprising variation exists for non-meat eaters! Substitute the chicken with 1 pound of shredded, cooked jackfruit or, more commonly, 1 can of mashed or finely chopped chickpeas. Use vegan cream cheese alternatives, plant-based ranch dressing, and high-quality vegan shredded mozzarella/cheddar. The texture mimics the original surprisingly well. For another great appetizer idea, check out this 3-Ingredient Sausage Cream Cheese Dip another winner for simplicity.
Make-Ahead and Storage
The beauty of the Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip is its make-ahead potential.
Make-Ahead Instructions: You can cook and shred the chicken up to 2 days in advance. Store the shredded chicken, along with the reserved liquid and Buffalo sauce, in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply transfer the cold chicken mixture to the slow cooker, add the dairy ingredients, and cook on LOW for 60-90 minutes until melted and hot.
Storage: Leftovers must be refrigerated promptly (within 2 hours of serving). Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, transfer the leftovers back to the slow cooker and heat on LOW, stirring frequently, until melted, or reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
For more great party planning and recipe inspiration, make sure to follow my latest creations on Pinterest!
Nutritional Values and Benefits of Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip
When considering an appetizer like Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip, it’s important to acknowledge that this is a rich, satisfying comfort food, primarily designed for flavor and enjoyment at social gatherings. While it is high in fat and calories, it also offers significant protein and can be enjoyed mindfully as part of a balanced diet.
General Nutritional Breakdown (Estimate per 1/4 cup serving, excluding dippers)
Please note that exact nutritional values vary widely based on the specific brands of cheese, dressing (ranch vs. blue cheese), and the fat content of the cream cheese used. This estimation assumes moderate amounts of dressing and full-fat dairy.
| Component | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 – 220 kcal |
| Protein | 12 – 15 g |
| Total Fat | 14 – 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 – 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 – 4 g |
| Sodium | 350 – 450 mg |
The Benefits of Key Ingredients
While this dip is an indulgence, several components contribute positive nutritional elements, particularly in the realm of protein and essential nutrients.
- Chicken Breast (Lean Protein Source): The primary benefit comes from the chicken. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and satiety. One pound of chicken breast provides a substantial amount of high-quality, complete protein, making this dip surprisingly filling despite its appetizer status.
- Dairy (Calcium and Vitamin D): The cheese and dressing contribute significant amounts of calcium, which is vital for bone health. If fortified, the dairy also provides Vitamin D. Cheese is also a rich source of B vitamins and fat-soluble vitamins.
- Buffalo Sauce (Antioxidants and Metabolism): While primarily for flavor, hot sauces often contain capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat. Capsaicin has been studied for its potential to boost metabolism slightly and act as an anti-inflammatory agent.
- Vegetable Dippers (Fiber and Nutrients): Serving this dip with celery and carrot sticks transforms it into a vehicle for essential fiber, Vitamin A (carrots), and hydration (celery). When enjoying this rich dip, prioritizing vegetable dippers over chips significantly improves the overall nutrient intake and reduces the carbohydrate load.
Mindful Consumption
Because the Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip is rich in saturated fats and sodium (largely due to the cheese, dressing, and bottled Buffalo sauce), portion control is key. When serving this dip at a party, remember that a quarter-cup serving is generally sufficient. Pairing this high-protein appetizer with lower-calorie vegetable sides helps balance the meal, allowing you to enjoy the robust flavor without overindulging. The convenience of the slow cooker allows you to enjoy this comfort food masterpiece effortlessly.
FAQs About the Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip
If you’re making this beloved appetizer for the first time, you probably have a few common questions. Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about making the perfect Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip.
Can I use already cooked chicken for this Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked, shredded chicken (such as rotisserie chicken) is a fantastic time-saver. If using pre-cooked chicken, skip the initial cooking phase (Phase 1). Simply combine all ingredients shredded chicken, cream cheese, sauces, and cheese and cook on LOW for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is hot, melted, and fully combined.
How do I keep my Buffalo Chicken Dip from drying out?
The slow cooker method is naturally superior for moisture retention compared to the oven. To prevent drying, ensure the slow cooker is set to the “KEEP WARM” setting during serving, not “LOW,” which can eventually dry out the edges. If the dip seems too thick after several hours, stir in a splash of chicken broth or a little extra ranch dressing to restore its creamy consistency.
What is the best cheese to use for a truly creamy Buffalo dip?
For the creamiest results, always grate your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded varieties, as the anti-caking agents in bagged cheese can inhibit a smooth melt. Sharp cheddar provides excellent flavor, but blending it with Monterey Jack or using Colby Jack ensures a superior, gooey texture that melts beautifully in the slow cooker alongside the cream cheese base.
Can I substitute ranch dressing for blue cheese dressing in Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Yes, the choice between ranch and blue cheese dressing is purely based on personal preference! Ranch provides a universally loved, slightly herbaceous, and milder flavor. Blue cheese dressing offers a sharper, tangier, and more traditional profile that complements the Buffalo sauce wonderfully. Use whichever you prefer, or even split the difference for a unique flavor blend.
How long can Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip stay on the keep warm setting?
A cooked dip can safely remain on the KEEP WARM setting in the slow cooker for up to 4 hours. Ensure the dip maintains a temperature above 140°F (60°C) to inhibit bacterial growth. If you plan to serve it longer, consider portioning it out and reheating small batches as needed, or switch to a full-power low setting for a brief period every hour to ensure the temperature remains adequate.
Conclusion: The Undisputed Champion of Appetizers
The Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip is more than just an appetizer; it’s an event. It perfectly encapsulates comfort, spice, and indulgence, delivering maximum flavor with the ultimate convenience. By utilizing the slow cooker, you eliminate the stress of oven space competition and the risk of drying out your cheesy creation, guaranteeing a gooey, decadent result every single time. From the initial slow simmer that infuses the chicken with authentic Buffalo flavor to the final melted cheese topping, this recipe is designed for effortless entertaining.
We’ve covered every angle from the precise instructions on cooking and shredding the chicken directly in the pot, to the importance of cubing your cream cheese for a smooth melt, and essential troubleshooting tips for consistency. Whether you are hosting the Super Bowl, a casual movie night, or simply need a potent appetizer for a potluck, this creamy, cheesy, and spicy dip is the answer. It’s adaptable to your heat preference, easy to scale for any crowd, and maintains the perfect serving temperature for hours.
So, pull out your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and prepare to make the most addictive appetizer you’ve ever served. Trust me, once you master this Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip, you will become the undisputed champion of game-day snacks. Don’t forget to stock up on those sturdy chips and crisp celery sticks! We encourage you to try this recipe, share your successful results, and let us know in the comments if you prefer the ranch or the blue cheese dressing version!
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip (Ultimate Game Day Appetizer)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the Buffalo wing sauce and 1/4 cup of the ranch dressing over the chicken.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours or on HIGH for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Reserve the liquid left in the slow cooker.
- Using two forks, thoroughly shred the chicken. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, along with any reserved liquid.
- Add the cubed cream cheese, the remaining 3/4 cup of ranch dressing, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the slow cooker with the chicken.
- Stir all the ingredients together until the cream cheese begins to melt and everything is thoroughly combined and creamy.
- Cover the slow cooker again and cook on LOW for an additional 30 to 45 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is completely melted and smooth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the crumbled blue cheese (if using) over the top of the dip. Switch the slow cooker setting to KEEP WARM to serve, surrounded by chips and vegetables.
