It was one of those gray, drizzly Sundays when all I wanted was a cozy couch, good company, and something warm and cheesy to snack on. That’s when I threw together this Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip — five ingredients, zero fuss, and absolutely addictive. The smell alone pulled everyone into the kitchen before I even set the chips out.
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Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo chicken dip is a party favorite for a reason. It’s rich, spicy, and totally scoopable — and this slow cooker version makes it even easier to love.
You only need five pantry-friendly ingredients: canned chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar. Toss them into the crockpot, stir a bit, and let the magic happen.
This dip works for just about any gathering — from football Sundays to cozy holiday spreads. Plus, it’s flexible. Want it hotter? Add salsa. Want it milder? Dial down the buffalo sauce. Even beginners can pull it off.
Try this easy crockpot buffalo chicken dip for parties and you’ll see why it disappears fast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, spicy dip:
- Canned chicken: Drained well to keep things from getting soupy.
- Cream cheese: Use a block, not the tub — it melts better.
- Buffalo hot sauce: Adds that signature heat.
- Ranch dressing: Creamy, tangy, and a perfect balance to the spice.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: For melty, cheesy goodness.
You can also use rotisserie or homemade shredded chicken if you prefer. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and well shredded before adding.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Dip in a Crockpot
This is as “hands-off” as it gets.
- Combine all ingredients in your slow cooker. Stir them together so the cream cheese starts softening.
- Cook on low for 3–4 hours, or on high for 1–2 hours.
- Stir every 30 minutes to keep things smooth and melty. This also helps prevent burning around the edges.
Avoid soupy dip by draining your chicken and using block cream cheese. If it looks greasy, use reduced-fat cheddar next time or stir more thoroughly as it cooks.
This makes about 8 generous servings — perfect for sharing!
Buffalo Chicken Dip Variations & Add-Ins
Want to make it your own? Here are a few cozy tweaks:
Swap the Cheese
Try a blend of Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a Mexican-style cheese for a different flavor.
Add Extra Heat or Flavor
Craving more kick? Stir in a spoonful of salsa, diced jalapeños, or a splash of extra hot sauce.
Use Fresh Chicken
Substitute the canned chicken with shredded rotisserie or homemade cooked chicken. It adds a richer flavor and chunkier texture.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Dip
This dip is a social snack — and it loves company.
Serve it warm with:
- Tortilla chips
- Celery sticks
- Carrot sticks
- Pretzels
- Crackers
- Baguette slices
Or spoon it over nachos, stuff it in tacos, or turn it into a gooey sandwich filling. It’s versatile and always a hit.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
Leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) are easy to handle:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3–5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: Warm gently in the microwave or back in the slow cooker, stirring often until creamy.
You can even prep it ahead the night before and just start the slow cooker before guests arrive.
Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe Card
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Easy Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip (5 Ingredients!)
- Total Time: 3 hrs 5 mins
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This creamy, spicy Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip comes together with just five ingredients and is always the first thing gone at any party.
Ingredients
2 (12.5 oz) cans chicken, drained
8 oz block cream cheese
1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
1. Add all ingredients to your slow cooker and stir to combine.
2. Set the crockpot to low for 3–4 hours or high for 1–2 hours.
3. Stir every 30 minutes to keep the dip creamy and prevent sticking.
4. Once everything is melted and well combined, switch to warm setting.
5. Serve hot with chips, veggies, or crackers.
Notes
Drain canned chicken well to avoid a soupy texture.
Use block-style cream cheese for smooth melting.
For a less greasy dip, try using low-fat cheese and mix cream cheese thoroughly.
Customize with salsa, jalapeños, or different cheese blends for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 3 hrs
- Category: Slow Cooker Recipes
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 604
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 2001mg
- Fat: 48g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 139mg
Related Recipes to Try
If you love comfort food that feeds a crowd, you’ll also enjoy:
- This easy crockpot buffalo chicken dip for parties
- These slow cooker ranch chicken tacos for game day
- A big dish of crockpot cheesy chicken spaghetti for comfort food cravings
- Or pair it with crock pot potatoes and onions as the perfect party side
Final Thoughts
There’s just something comforting about a warm, cheesy dip that brings people together. This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip does exactly that — without taking up your whole day. If you give it a try, I’d love to hear what you served it with. Chips? Veggies? Or maybe tucked into a warm tortilla?
Don’t forget to save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s ready for your next get-together.
FAQs
How to tell if Buffalo chicken dip has gone bad?
Check for sour smell, mold, or separation. If it smells off or looks unusual, it’s safest to toss it.
How long can you prep Buffalo chicken dip the night before?
You can mix it up 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the fridge and heat it when ready.
Why is Buffalo chicken dip soupy?
Too much moisture! Drain canned chicken well and use block cream cheese. Also, don’t overdo the dressing or sauce.
How long can Buffalo chicken dip sit out?
No more than 2 hours at room temperature. After that, pop it in the fridge or discard it.
