There are appetizers, and then there is Buffalo Chicken Dip. This iconic dish is not just a snack; it’s a centerpiece, a crowd-pleaser, and the undisputed king of game day spreads. Creamy, tangy, spicy, and utterly addictive, this baked dip captures all the vibrant flavor of classic buffalo wings but delivers it in a warm, cheesy, dippable format. If you are looking for the absolute best recipe that guarantees bubbly edges, a velvety smooth texture, and an authentic buffalo kick, you have found it.
Our classic Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe is incredibly easy to execute, relying on staple ingredients and minimal active preparation time. Whether you are hosting a Super Bowl party, a casual weekend gathering, or simply craving comfort food, this recipe transforms simple ingredients shredded chicken, rich cream cheese, savory dressing, and that signature hot sauce into a culinary touchdown. Forget complicated cooking; this is straightforward comfort food at its finest. Let’s dive into how to create the ultimate, perfectly seasoned, and incredibly cheesy baked Buffalo Chicken Dip that will disappear faster than you can shout, “Touchdown!”
Why You’ll Love This Classic Buffalo Chicken Dip (And Never Buy Store-Bought Again)
The culinary landscape is flooded with appetizer recipes, but few possess the universal appeal and consistent reliability of homemade Buffalo Chicken Dip. This isn’t just about mixing ingredients; it’s about crafting an experience. Here’s a deeper look at why this specific recipe will become your go-to:
Unbeatable Flavor Synergy
The beauty of this recipe lies in its balanced flavor profile. Unlike many spicy appetizers that rely solely on heat, this dip offers complex layers:
- The Tang: Provided by the high-quality buffalo wing sauce (we recommend Frank’s RedHot for that authentic flavor), which offers vinegar tang and cayenne heat, rather than just pure scorch.
- The Creaminess: The base of softened cream cheese and the added richness of the dressing (ranch or blue cheese) temper the spice, creating a luxurious, silky mouthfeel.
- The Savory Depth: The shredded chicken provides a hearty, protein-rich foundation, making the dip substantial enough to feel like a meal.
- The Cheesy Crust: A generous topping of Monterey Jack or sharp cheddar melts into a golden, bubbly crust, providing a crucial textural contrast to the soft interior.
This carefully calibrated ratio ensures every spoonful of hot wing dip hits all the right notes: spicy, creamy, savory, and tangy.
The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser and Party Staple
Few dishes disappear as quickly at a gathering as a freshly baked dish of Buffalo Chicken Dip. It’s a guaranteed hit because it appeals across ages and palates (provided they enjoy a little heat). It’s inherently shareable and interactive, encouraging guests to gather around the appetizer table. For hosts, this means less time stressing about complex dishes and more time enjoying the party. It truly is the perfect Super Bowl or holiday appetizer. The aroma alone of melted cheese and hot sauce is enough to draw everyone in. Plus, the ease of preparing large batches makes this spicy chicken dip ideal for any size crowd, ensuring no one leaves hungry.
Effortless Preparation with Maximum Impact
One of the biggest advantages of this classic recipe is its simplicity. We leverage efficiency tricks that streamline the process:
- The Rotisserie Chicken Hack: By utilizing pre-cooked chicken, like a rotisserie bird, you eliminate the longest cooking step, cutting the active prep time down to less than 15 minutes. This means you can go from zero to oven-ready quickly.
- One-Bowl Mixing: All ingredients (except the reserved cheese topping) are combined in one large bowl. This minimizes cleanup and complexity.
- Reliable Baking: Baking the dip simply requires waiting for the edges to bubble and the cheese to brown. It’s an easy, reliable process that requires very little monitoring.
This combination of amazing flavor and simple execution is exactly why this particular recipe for baked Buffalo Chicken Dip reigns supreme in the world of appetizers.
Why You Should Try This Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe Today
If you’ve previously tried other versions of hot wing dip that turned out too oily, too bland, or too watery, this recipe is designed to fix those common mistakes and deliver guaranteed perfection. Trying this version means experiencing the dip as it was meant to be rich, thick, and bursting with flavor.
Consistency is Key: Achieving the Perfect Texture
Many recipes suffer from improper ingredient ratios, resulting in a thin, soupy dip. Our method ensures a thick, spreadable, and hearty texture that stands up beautifully to sturdy chips and vegetables. The secret lies in starting with fully softened, high-quality cream cheese and incorporating the sauces slowly to maintain emulsification. We use 8 ounces of cream cheese as the primary stabilizer, ensuring that when the dip bakes, it sets up beautifully but remains incredibly creamy inside. This superior consistency is what elevates this appetizer above standard recipes.
Customization and Versatility for Every Palate
While the classic formula is perfect, this recipe serves as an excellent foundational base, allowing for easy customization:
- Spice Level Control: Want it hotter? Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of ghost pepper sauce into the mix. Prefer it milder? Use slightly less buffalo sauce or incorporate a little extra cream cheese.
- Dressing Preference: The ongoing debate: Ranch or Blue Cheese? This recipe gives you the freedom to choose your favorite. Ranch yields a smoother, milder profile, while blue cheese dressing adds a sharper, more pungent savory note, mirroring the traditional pairing for wings.
- Cheese Varieties: While Monterey Jack offers incredible meltability, substituting with Pepper Jack adds a subtle kick, or using Aged Sharp Cheddar brings a richer, nuttier flavor that complements the tang of the hot sauce.
This adaptability means you can make a version of the dip that is perfectly tailored to your guests, ensuring everyone is satisfied. And if you’re planning a whole spread of easy appetizers, consider serving this alongside something fresh and crunchy, like our Cranberry Jalapeño Dip for a delightful contrast in texture and temperature.
Perfect Make-Ahead Potential
Hosting can be stressful, but this Buffalo Chicken Dip is incredibly forgiving. You can prepare the entire mixture mixing the chicken, cheese, and base up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the baking dish tightly and refrigerate. When ready to serve, sprinkle the reserved cheese on top and increase the baking time by 5 to 10 minutes to ensure it is heated all the way through. This make-ahead capability is a lifesaver for busy event days, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your gathering while knowing the star appetizer is ready to go.
Furthermore, leftovers (if you are lucky enough to have any!) reheat wonderfully. Simply cover them with foil and bake until warm, or use smaller portions in the microwave. Some people even use leftover Buffalo Chicken Dip to stuff bell peppers, make quesadillas, or top baked potatoes turning an appetizer into a full-fledged comfort meal.
Ingredients and Essential Equipment for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Dip
Creating an exceptional Buffalo Chicken Dip starts with selecting high-quality ingredients and having the right tools on hand. The precise quantities listed below are essential for achieving that ideal, creamy consistency.
Precise Ingredients List
This recipe is designed to serve 8-10 people generously as an appetizer. We use a base of five main components, plus an optional garnish, to create the robust, signature flavor.
The Foundation: Creaminess and Structure
- 1 (8 ounce) block cream cheese, fully softened to room temperature: This is non-negotiable. Using cold cream cheese will result in a lumpy dip. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture when baked, preventing the dip from separating or becoming oily.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing: Your choice dictates the secondary flavor profile. Blue cheese dressing provides a sharp, traditional contrast to the hot sauce, while ranch offers a milder, herbaceous creaminess. Use thick, high-quality dressing; thin or light versions may make the dip runny.
The Main Components: Heat and Protein
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: This is roughly equivalent to the breast and thigh meat from 1 large rotisserie chicken. Using pre-cooked chicken saves immense time. Ensure the chicken is finely shredded or chopped so it incorporates fully into the creamy base.
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot Original): This is the key flavor driver. Frank’s is widely considered the gold standard for authentic buffalo flavor due to its cayenne pepper and vinegar base. Do not substitute this with generic hot sauce, which often lacks the buttery, rich texture of actual wing sauce.
The Cheese Factor: Melt and Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or sharp cheddar cheese, divided:
- 1 cup: Mixed into the dip for internal cheesiness and binding. Monterey Jack melts beautifully, but sharp cheddar provides a deeper flavor.
- 1/2 cup: Reserved for sprinkling on top to create that gorgeous, golden crust.
Garnish (Optional but Recommended)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Added post-baking, green onions provide a fresh, sharp crunch that cuts through the richness of the dip.
- Blue Cheese Crumbles: A sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles offers a final pungent burst of flavor, especially if you used ranch dressing in the base.
Deep Dive: Selecting Your Ingredients Wisely (700-900 word fulfillment)
The success of your Buffalo Chicken Dip hinges not just on the steps, but on the quality and preparation of the raw materials. Understanding the role of each item helps in successful substitution or troubleshooting.
The Cream Cheese Conundrum
Why Room Temperature Matters: Cream cheese contains natural stabilizers and fats. When cold, these are solid, making it impossible to whip into a smooth consistency with the liquid sauces. Attempting to mix cold cream cheese often results in lumps that won’t dissipate even during baking. By allowing the cream cheese to fully soften (which can take 1-2 hours on the counter, or 20 seconds in the microwave if you’re in a hurry), you ensure a smooth, luxurious dip base. If you must use reduced-fat cream cheese, be aware that it has a higher water content and may result in a slightly thinner texture.
Choosing Your Chicken: Shredding for Success
While rotisserie chicken is the ultimate convenience hack, you can also boil or bake 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and shred them yourself. When shredding, aim for medium-sized strands. Tip: Avoid chunks of chicken. Large pieces prevent the creamy sauce from binding everything together, leading to a less cohesive dip. Use two forks or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment on low speed for easy, perfect shredding.
The Hot Sauce Identity
Authentic Buffalo Chicken Dip requires buffalo wing sauce, not just cayenne hot sauce. Buffalo wing sauce is essentially a mixture of cayenne pepper sauce, vinegar, and melted butter (or butter flavoring). This butter component is what makes the final dip taste rich and smooth, rather than simply acidic and stinging. If Frank’s RedHot Original is unavailable, look for any dedicated ‘wing sauce’ that lists butter or oil as a primary ingredient.
The Cheese Debate: Cheddar vs. Jack
While any good melting cheese works, Monterey Jack offers superior stretch and a very mild flavor that allows the buffalo sauce to shine. Sharp Cheddar, conversely, adds a tangy bite that complements the blue cheese notes beautifully. We strongly recommend grating your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses are coated in anti-caking agents (like potato starch or cellulose) that prevent them from melting smoothly, often resulting in a grainy dip. Freshly grated cheese melts faster, smoother, and guarantees that desirable pull.
Necessary Equipment for Easy Preparation
Gathering your tools before you start ensures a seamless cooking process. This recipe requires standard kitchen tools, but a few specific items simplify the mixing process.
Essential Equipment List
- 9×9 inch or 8×8 inch baking dish: A square dish ensures a good depth for the dip, promoting even baking and heat retention. A shallow dish (like a pie plate) might cause the dip to dry out too quickly.
- Large mixing bowl: Necessary for combining all the ingredients before transferring them to the baking dish.
- Electric mixer (hand mixer or stand mixer): Highly recommended for easily blending the cream cheese and sauces into a lump-free base. If you don’t have a mixer, a sturdy wooden spoon and some elbow grease will work, provided the cream cheese is truly softened.
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon: Crucial for folding in the shredded chicken and cheese gently without over-mixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision ensures the perfect ratio of creamy vs. spicy components.
Detailed Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make the Best Baked Buffalo Chicken Dip
Follow these detailed steps carefully to achieve a dip that is creamy, perfectly seasoned, and structurally sound. Pay close attention to the mixing phase that’s where the magic happens!
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
Action: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch or 9×9 inch square baking dish.
Preheating the oven is vital to ensure the dip bakes evenly and the cheese topping achieves that desirable golden hue quickly. Greasing the dish prevents the dip, especially the cheesy edges, from sticking, making serving and cleanup much easier. Use non-stick spray or a thin swipe of butter.
Step 2: Soften the Base (The Cream Cheese Foundation)
Action: Place the fully softened 8-ounce block of cream cheese into a large mixing bowl. Beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer or wooden spoon until it is smooth and creamy.
This initial beating breaks down the cream cheese structure, making it light and airy. If you are using an electric mixer, start on low speed to prevent splattering. This step establishes the foundational texture of your Buffalo Chicken Dip. If the cream cheese is lumpy here, the final dip will be lumpy.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients (The Flavor Base)
Action: Pour the 1/2 cup of buffalo wing sauce and the 1/2 cup of ranch or blue cheese dressing into the bowl with the cream cheese. Stir or beat the mixture until the sauces are thoroughly combined and the base is a uniform orange color and smooth texture.
Continue mixing until all white streaks of cream cheese are gone. The resulting mixture should be a vibrant, creamy orange paste. If you notice any separation, ensure you scraped down the sides of the bowl fully and continue mixing briefly. Tip: If your sauces are cold, briefly warm them (not hot, just slightly warm) before adding them to the cream cheese. This aids in faster, smoother blending.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Internal Cheese (Folding for Texture)
Action: Fold in the 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken. Add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese to the mixture. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese for the topping. Stir all ingredients gently until the chicken and cheese are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
It is important to switch from beating to folding at this stage. Over-mixing the chicken can break it down into mushy bits. Use a large spatula and gently turn the mixture over and over until everything is incorporated. The dip mixture will be thick and heavy. This internal cheese acts as a binding agent, ensuring the dip stays together and gooey when scooped.
If you enjoy comforting, easy dips like this, you might also be a fan of our 3-Ingredient Sausage Cream Cheese Dip, which offers a different but equally hearty flavor profile.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Action: Spoon the entire mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spread the dip level with the back of a spoon.
Ensure the dip is spread edge-to-edge for even baking. If the center is significantly higher than the edges, the outside may dry out before the middle is fully heated. Press the dip down lightly to eliminate any large air pockets.
Step 6: Top and Prepare for Baking
Action: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top of the dip.
Spread the cheese across the entire surface. This cheese layer serves two purposes: it seals in moisture during baking and provides the beautiful, golden, crunchy crust that everyone fights over.
Step 7: Bake the Dip
Action: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot throughout, the edges are bubbly, and the cheese topping is fully melted and lightly golden brown.
The total baking time can vary slightly depending on the depth of your dish. Look for visual cues: steam rising from the center and vigorous bubbling around the edges. If the top cheese is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. A perfectly baked Buffalo Chicken Dip is piping hot!
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Action: Carefully remove the dip from the oven. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. If desired, sprinkle the optional chopped green onions or blue cheese crumbles over the top before serving hot with celery sticks, carrots, tortilla chips, or slices of baguette.
Important Tip: Allow the dip to rest! Just like a steak, letting the dip sit for a few minutes allows the creamy base to stabilize slightly. This prevents the dip from being too runny and ensures cleaner, more substantial scoops. Serve it warm for the best flavor and texture contrast.
Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting Your Buffalo Chicken Dip
Once you master the classic recipe, you can easily adapt this incredible appetizer to suit various dietary needs or flavor preferences. Here are tips, variations, and advice for avoiding common mistakes when making hot wing dip.
Serving Suggestions: Beyond the Chip
While tortilla chips are a classic vehicle for this spicy chicken dip, expanding your serving platter elevates the experience and adds valuable nutritional fiber and crunch:
- For the Low-Carb Crowd: Offer celery stalks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips (red or orange work well), and blanched broccoli florets.
- For Heartier Dipping: Serve with mini bagels, toasted pita bread, thick pretzel chips, or robust water crackers.
- As a Topping: Use leftovers as a filling for baked potatoes, a topping for nachos, or spread it inside wraps and sandwiches for an instant, flavor-packed lunch.
For more appetizer inspiration, especially focusing on game day snacks, be sure to check out our collection of popular recipes on Pinterest.
Flavor and Ingredient Variations
Keto/Low-Carb Adaptation
This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, provided you use ranch or blue cheese dressing without added sugars (always check the label). To ensure the dip remains keto-friendly, stick to full-fat cream cheese and high-quality grated cheddar or Monterey Jack. Serve only with low-carb dippers like celery and bell peppers.
Crockpot or Slow Cooker Version
For large parties where oven space is limited, this recipe translates perfectly to the slow cooker.
- Combine all ingredients (including the topping cheese) in the slow cooker basin.
- Cook on LOW for 2-3 hours or HIGH for 1 hour, stirring occasionally until the dip is hot and thoroughly melted.
- Reduce the heat to WARM setting for serving. Note: The slow cooker version will be slightly less firm than the baked version but retains its creaminess.
Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip
If you have access to a smoker, cooking the dip at 225°F (107°C) for 60-90 minutes adds an incredible smoky depth that complements the heat of the buffalo sauce beautifully. This is a must-try for BBQ enthusiasts!
Kick Up the Heat
If the original recipe is too mild, consider these additions:
- Mix in 1-2 teaspoons of finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper when you add the chicken.
- Substitute the ranch or blue cheese dressing with a spicy version (like Sriracha ranch).
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the creamy base.
Troubleshooting Common Mistakes
Even simple recipes can go wrong. Here are the most common issues and how to fix them:
Problem: The dip is oily/greasy.
Solution: This usually happens when using reduced-fat cream cheese (high water content causes separation) or if the dip is overcooked at too high a temperature. Ensure you use full-fat cream cheese and don’t bake the dip longer than necessary. You can try carefully blotting the excess oil off the top with a paper towel before serving.
Problem: The dip is too thin/runny.
Solution: Too much dressing or hot sauce was used relative to the cream cheese and chicken. Next time, measure liquids precisely. For an immediate fix, mix in an extra 1/4 cup of grated cheese before the final bake, or stir in 1-2 tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving to help thicken it up.
Problem: The cream cheese is lumpy.
Solution: The cream cheese was not fully softened before mixing. Lumps are hard to eliminate once the liquids are added. To try and save it, increase the mixing time with the electric mixer, or trust that the heat of the oven will melt most of the smaller lumps, especially once the dip is served piping hot.
Nutritional Insights and Serving Smarter
As a rich, baked appetizer, Buffalo Chicken Dip is an indulgence, but it also provides substantial protein and energy. Understanding its nutritional composition allows for smarter serving choices.
Estimated Nutritional Breakdown (Per 1/8th Serving)
(Note: These are estimates based on standard full-fat ingredients and do not include the nutritional value of dippers.)
| Nutrient | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 – 400 kcal |
| Protein | 25 – 30 g |
| Total Fat | 25 – 35 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15 – 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4 – 8 g |
| Sodium | 700 – 900 mg |
Benefits of Key Ingredients
While this dip is high in fats, primarily from the cheese and cream cheese, it is also a powerhouse of protein, making it very satisfying:
- Cooked Chicken (Protein Source): Chicken is a lean source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and satiety. Including a high protein dip like this ensures your guests feel full and satisfied, making it an excellent addition to a party spread.
- Cheese (Calcium and Fat): Cheese provides significant calcium for bone health. The fat content, while high, helps carry the complex flavors of the buffalo sauce and contributes to the dip’s appealing texture.
- Dressing/Hot Sauce (Flavor and Antioxidants): Buffalo wing sauce contains cayenne peppers, which are rich in Capsaicin. Capsaicin is the compound responsible for the heat, but it is also studied for its potential antioxidant properties and ability to temporarily boost metabolism.
Healthier Modifications
If you wish to reduce the fat or calorie count without sacrificing too much flavor, consider these easy swaps:
- Greek Yogurt Swap: Replace half of the ranch/blue cheese dressing with plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%). Greek yogurt adds tang and creaminess while significantly boosting the protein content and reducing overall fat.
- Skip the Full-Fat Cream Cheese (Use with Caution): If you must use low-fat cream cheese, mix in 1/4 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese (which is low in moisture) to help stabilize the mixture and prevent it from becoming watery during the bake.
- Increase Vegetables: Use carrots and cucumber slices instead of chips. This reduces the calorie density per scoop and adds essential vitamins and hydration.
Serving this spicy chicken dip alongside a robust vegetable platter not only balances the nutritional profile but also offers different textural opportunities, making the overall experience more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Chicken Dip
Can I prepare Buffalo Chicken Dip ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can mix all the ingredients (Steps 2 through 4) and place the mixture into the baking dish up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you are ready to bake, sprinkle the reserved cheese on top and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the bake time to account for the chill.
How do I keep Buffalo Chicken Dip warm during a party?
The best way to maintain the gooey texture is by using a small slow cooker or a chafing dish set to the low or warm setting. If serving immediately after baking, place the ceramic baking dish on a trivet near other warm appetizers, like French Onion Dip, to encourage guests to enjoy it quickly while hot.
What is the best type of chicken to use for this spicy chicken dip?
Rotisserie chicken is highly recommended due to its excellent flavor and convenience, saving significant prep time. If cooking chicken specifically for the dip, boiling or slow-cooking boneless chicken breasts yields tender, easy-to-shred results. Ensure all chicken is shredded finely for optimal texture.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese or light dressing?
While you can substitute these, exercise caution. Low-fat products have higher water content, which increases the risk of the dip becoming runny or separating (oiling out) during baking. If using light ingredients, ensure the total quantity of liquid (sauce plus dressing) remains exactly 1 cup and add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to the creamy base before baking for stability.
How spicy is this classic Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe?
The recipe provides a medium, manageable heat level, typical of traditional buffalo wings. The spice from the wing sauce is significantly mellowed by the large amounts of cream cheese, dressing, and melted cheese. It’s usually enjoyable for most adults and older children who appreciate mild heat. You can increase the heat easily by adding more hot sauce or a dash of cayenne.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Buffalo Chicken Dip
You now possess the definitive blueprint for making the absolute best Buffalo Chicken Dip. This recipe combines the convenience of quick preparation with the irresistible, authentic flavor of classic buffalo wings, all baked into a warm, gooey, cheesy masterpiece. We’ve covered everything: the importance of fully softened cream cheese, the textural benefit of incorporating half the cheese internally, and the necessity of using authentic buffalo wing sauce to achieve that signature tang.
Whether you’re gearing up for a major sporting event, hosting a casual neighborhood potluck, or simply treating yourself to a truly epic comfort food snack, this dip is guaranteed to be a sensational success. It’s hearty, rich, perfectly spicy, and always the first dish to be fully devoured. The combination of heat, savory chicken, and cool, creamy dressing is simply unmatched in the appetizer world.
Don’t just read about this incredible dip make it! Gather your ingredients, shred that chicken, and prepare to bask in the glory of the perfect hot wing dip. Once you experience the golden, bubbly crust and the decadent interior of this homemade Buffalo Chicken Dip, you’ll never look back. We encourage you to try the recipe, customize it to your preferred spice level, and share your results! Let us know in the comments which dipper was your favorite. Happy cooking!
Classic Buffalo Chicken Dip (30 Minute Appetizer)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x8 inch or 9x9 inch square baking dish.
- Place the fully softened 8-ounce block of cream cheese into a large mixing bowl. Beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer or wooden spoon until it is completely smooth and creamy.
- Pour the 1/2 cup of buffalo wing sauce and the 1/2 cup of ranch or blue cheese dressing into the bowl. Stir or beat the mixture until the sauces are thoroughly combined and the base is a uniform orange color and smooth texture.
- Fold in the 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken. Add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese to the mixture. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese for the topping. Stir all ingredients gently until the chicken and cheese are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Spoon the entire mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spread the dip level with the back of a spoon. Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake the dip for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot throughout, the edges are bubbly, and the cheese topping is fully melted and lightly golden brown.
- Carefully remove the dip from the oven. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. If desired, sprinkle the optional chopped green onions or blue cheese crumbles over the top before serving hot with celery sticks, carrots, tortilla chips, or slices of baguette.
