Gather around, because this Franks Buffalo Chicken Dip is the kind of cozy, crowd-pleasing comfort food that brings everyone running to the kitchen. Growing up, this dip was a staple at every family gathering—warm, creamy, and just spicy enough to keep you dipping for more. There’s something about that tangy kick of buffalo sauce mingled with tender shredded chicken that instantly feels like home, especially when it’s been slow-cooked to bubbling perfection.
Why This Recipe Works
- Rich, Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese, ranch dressing, and melted cheese creates a velvety smooth base that perfectly balances the spice of Franks RedHot sauce. The slow cooker ensures everything melts together evenly, producing a dip that’s both thick and irresistibly creamy.
- Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, this dip practically makes itself. Just toss in the ingredients, set it, and let the gentle heat do all the hard work while you enjoy the gathering.
- Balanced Flavor: The tangy buffalo sauce and cool, creamy cheese balance each other beautifully. Add shredded chicken for heartiness, and you have the ultimate comfort dip that satisfies spice lovers and comfort food fans alike.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s game day, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this dip is made for sharing. It stays warm and creamy in the slow cooker, making it easy to keep on the table for hours.
- Customizable: You can adjust the spice level, cheese type, or even add extra toppings. It’s a forgiving recipe that welcomes your personal touch while maintaining its nostalgic, farmhouse appeal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup Franks RedHot Original Buffalo Sauce
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or crumbled blue cheese
Equipment Needed
- 4-quart slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Hand mixer or fork (for shredding chicken if needed)
- Serving bowl or dish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Base
Begin by shredding your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you’re starting with raw chicken, cook it in a skillet with a little butter until tender and easy to pull apart. Once shredded, set it aside in a large mixing bowl. Add the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and Franks RedHot sauce. Use a spoon to blend them gently together. The cream cheese might resist at first, but as it warms later, it’ll melt into a smooth, tangy base. Tip: For the best texture, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature—it helps everything combine smoothly without lumps.
Step 2: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Now sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, reserving about ½ cup of cheddar for topping later. Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and black pepper. This mix gives the dip its signature farmhouse flavor—rich, spicy, and just smoky enough to feel homemade. The garlic adds depth while the paprika gives a subtle warmth that pairs perfectly with the tangy buffalo sauce. As you stir, everything will start to come together in a thick, creamy mixture.
Step 3: Layer into the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease your slow cooker with a small amount of butter or non-stick spray. Pour the chicken mixture into the slow cooker, spreading it evenly with your spatula. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top for that irresistible golden layer once it’s heated through. Cover with the lid, set the temperature to low, and let it cook for about 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges start to bubble gently and the cheese on top is fully melted. Tip: Stir the mixture halfway through cooking to ensure even heating and a smoother texture.
Step 4: Check Consistency and Adjust
After about 2 hours, lift the lid and give your dip a stir. You’re looking for a creamy, well-blended consistency. If it feels too thick, stir in an extra tablespoon or two of ranch dressing. If it’s too thin, let it cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes to thicken. The beauty of the slow cooker is how forgiving it is—you can easily tweak it to get that perfect, scoopable texture. This is also a great time to taste and adjust seasoning. If you want more heat, add another splash of Franks sauce.
Step 5: Keep Warm and Serve
Once your Franks Buffalo Chicken Dip reaches that luscious, molten consistency, switch the slow cooker to the “Warm” setting. This keeps the dip soft and gooey throughout your gathering without overcooking it. Transfer to a serving dish if you like, or keep it right in the slow cooker for easy dipping. Garnish with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of blue cheese for a rustic finishing touch. Tip: Serve it with sturdy dippers like celery sticks, tortilla chips, or toasted baguette slices—they hold up best under the creamy, cheesy weight of this dip.
Step 6: Store and Reheat
If you somehow have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave for 30–45 seconds at a time, stirring in between until hot, or place it back in the slow cooker on low for about 20 minutes. Add a splash of ranch or a bit of milk to restore the creamy texture.
Tips and Tricks
Get the Creamiest Texture
For the smoothest, creamiest result, make sure your cream cheese is completely softened before mixing. Cold cream cheese tends to clump and resist blending, especially in a slow cooker. If you forget to let it sit out, you can microwave it for 15–20 seconds to soften it quickly.
Balance the Heat
Everyone has their own spice tolerance. Franks RedHot Original has that signature tangy heat, but if you’re making this dip for a crowd, consider using half the amount of sauce first. You can always stir in more later once it’s cooked and taste-tested. For those who love extra spice, a dash of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of diced jalapeños adds an extra kick without overpowering the creamy base.
Layer the Flavors
Don’t skip the step where you mix the ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker. Pre-blending ensures the cream cheese and ranch dressing coat every piece of chicken evenly, creating a uniform texture and flavor. It also prevents the sauce from separating during slow cooking.
Reheating Tips
Buffalo chicken dip thickens as it cools, so when reheating, stir in a tablespoon or two of milk or ranch dressing to loosen it up. Use the “Low” setting on your slow cooker to reheat gently—high heat can cause the cheese to separate. You can also reheat small portions in the microwave, stirring between short bursts to keep it creamy.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this dip with crisp celery sticks, carrot sticks, or even slices of bell pepper for a lighter balance to its richness. For a heartier snack, pair it with pretzel bites, tortilla chips, or chunks of warm, crusty bread. If you’re planning a party, keep the dip warm in the slow cooker with the lid slightly ajar to maintain that gooey, dippable consistency for hours.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover dip in a sealed container in the fridge. When properly stored, it stays good for up to three days. Avoid freezing—it changes the texture of the cheese and makes the sauce grainy once thawed.
Recipe Variations
- Blue Cheese Lovers: Replace the ranch dressing with blue cheese dressing and stir in a handful of crumbled blue cheese for a sharper, tangier version that classic buffalo wing fans will adore.
- Spicy BBQ Twist: Mix ½ cup of your favorite smoky barbecue sauce with the Franks RedHot for a sweeter, smokier flavor. It’s a hit for those who like mild heat and a touch of southern charm.
- Extra Cheesy Edition: Stir in ½ cup of pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese for a stretchier, gooier dip with just a hint of spice.
- Lighter Version: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and light ranch dressing. It still tastes indulgent, but with fewer calories and less fat—great for mindful eaters who don’t want to miss out on flavor.
- Baked Option: If you prefer a browned top, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?
Yes, you can use canned chicken in a pinch. Drain it well and shred it with a fork before mixing it into the dip. While it won’t have quite the same juicy texture as freshly cooked chicken breast, the slow cooker helps rehydrate it as it simmers in the creamy sauce, resulting in a tasty and convenient shortcut that still satisfies.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire mixture up to 24 hours in advance, then cover and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, transfer it to your slow cooker, set it on low, and cook for 2–3 hours until hot and bubbly. This make-ahead method is a lifesaver for parties or game days when you don’t want to fuss at the last minute.
What can I serve with buffalo chicken dip besides chips?
While tortilla chips are a classic choice, there are plenty of alternatives. Try slices of toasted baguette, pretzel bites, celery sticks, carrot sticks, or even crisp cucumber rounds. For a fun twist, use mini bell peppers cut in half as edible cups—they’re sturdy and pair beautifully with the creamy, spicy filling.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients for a larger crowd. Use a 6-quart slow cooker instead of a 4-quart one, and extend the cooking time slightly to ensure everything heats evenly. Stir once or twice during cooking for best results.
How do I keep the dip warm for a party?
Once the dip is fully cooked, switch your slow cooker to the “Warm” setting. Stir occasionally to keep the texture even. If it thickens too much, stir in a little ranch dressing or milk to loosen it up. This setup keeps your dip perfectly gooey for the entire event.
Summary
Franks Buffalo Chicken Dip is the definition of rustic comfort—creamy, spicy, and irresistibly rich, made even better by the slow-cooked tenderness that melds every flavor together. It’s the kind of dish that turns casual gatherings into cozy memories, one scoop at a time.
Franks Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe Slow Cooked to Perfection
Course: Cooking4
servings10
minutes3
hours300
kcalIngredients
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 cup Franks RedHot Original Buffalo Sauce
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
1 cup ranch dressing
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp minced garlic
¼ tsp smoked paprika
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional garnish: chopped green onions or crumbled blue cheese
Directions
- Shred cooked chicken and combine with softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and Franks RedHot sauce in a bowl.
- Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, garlic, paprika, and black pepper, reserving some cheddar for topping.
- Lightly grease the slow cooker and add the mixture. Sprinkle with remaining cheddar.
- Cover and cook on low for 2–3 hours, stirring once midway.
- Adjust consistency if needed by adding ranch or cooking uncovered briefly.
- Keep warm while serving; garnish with green onions or blue cheese.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently before serving.
Joseph Hudson has been raising chickens for over 15 years. In 2018, he completed the Agriculture & Natural Resources program at Mt. San Antonio College. He currently raises over 1400 chickens on his 7.5-hectare farm. He keeps sharing his experience on raising healthy and happy chickens on Chicken Scratch The Foundry.
