The perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and cheesy, this Buffalo Chicken Dip is a must-have for any gathering. Whether you’re enjoying a game night, hosting a party, or just craving a high-protein snack, this dip delivers all the flavors you love with a nutritious twist. Made with Greek yogurt and real cheeses, it keeps things light yet indulgent.
Pair it with fresh celery and carrot sticks for a low-carb option, or serve it with your favorite crackers and chips for a classic experience. With every bite, you get that signature buffalo heat balanced with rich, melty cheeses. Quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying—this dip is bound to be the star of your table!
Full Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- ½ cup hot buffalo sauce
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and buffalo sauce. Stir until smooth and well mixed.
- Add the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, mozzarella, blue cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped chives, and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with celery sticks, carrot sticks, crackers, or pita chips.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 215 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
Origins & Popularity
Buffalo Chicken Dip is inspired by the classic Buffalo chicken wings, which were first created in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s. Traditionally, Buffalo wings are deep-fried and tossed in a spicy butter-based hot sauce, often served with blue cheese dressing and celery sticks. This dip takes those same bold flavors but transforms them into a creamy, scoopable, and highly shareable dish. It has since become a staple for game day gatherings, potlucks, and parties due to its rich flavor, ease of preparation, and versatility.
Why This Version is High-Protein?
Unlike many traditional Buffalo Chicken Dips that rely heavily on cream cheese and mayonnaise, this high-protein version includes Greek yogurt as a key ingredient. Greek yogurt not only adds a creamy texture but also significantly increases the protein content while keeping the dip light and balanced. Additionally, the shredded chicken itself is a lean, protein-rich ingredient that makes this dip more satisfying and nutritious.
Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and enhances the flavor. You can also poach or bake your own chicken breasts and shred them for a fresher alternative.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you love extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle more hot sauce on top before baking. For a milder version, use a little less buffalo sauce and mix in extra Greek yogurt.
- Make it Extra Creamy: If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a little extra cream cheese or an extra scoop of Greek yogurt. This will create an ultra-smooth consistency.
- Best Cheese for Melting: Mozzarella and sharp cheddar are great choices for achieving a perfectly gooey and melted texture. Blue cheese adds a tangy kick, but you can omit it if you’re not a fan.
Serving Suggestions
Buffalo Chicken Dip is incredibly versatile and can be served in several ways:
- With Fresh Vegetables: Pair with celery sticks, carrot sticks, bell pepper slices, or cucumber rounds for a low-carb snack.
- With Crackers or Chips: Serve with tortilla chips, pita chips, or whole-grain crackers for a crunchy contrast to the creamy dip.
- As a Sandwich or Wrap: Spread the dip onto toasted bread, a bun, or a tortilla for a protein-packed meal.
- Stuffed in Peppers or Mushrooms: Spoon the dip into halved bell peppers or large mushroom caps and bake for a creative, low-carb meal.
Make-Ahead & Storage Instructions
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dip in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and bubbly.
- Freezing Option: This dip can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze, place the mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Customization Ideas
This dip is easy to customize based on dietary preferences:
- Keto-Friendly Version: Keep it low-carb by skipping any added sugar in the buffalo sauce and serving it with fresh veggies instead of crackers.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut yogurt, and a vegan cheese blend to make it completely dairy-free.
- Extra Protein Boost: Mix in a scoop of unflavored protein powder or add more shredded chicken to increase the protein content further.
- Loaded Buffalo Chicken Dip: For a fun twist, top the baked dip with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, or diced avocado before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes with minimal prep.
High-Protein: A healthier spin on a classic dip, packed with protein from Greek yogurt and chicken.
Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for game nights, tailgates, parties, or even as a simple meal prep option.
Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level, cheese options, or protein content to fit your preferences.
This High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip brings all the bold, creamy, and cheesy flavors you love in a more balanced way. It’s guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering, and with so many ways to serve it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Health Benefits of This High-Protein Version
This Buffalo Chicken Dip isn’t just delicious—it also has several nutritional benefits:
- High in Protein: Thanks to shredded chicken and Greek yogurt, this dip is packed with protein, which helps with muscle repair, satiety, and overall energy levels.
- Lower in Fat: Using Greek yogurt instead of traditional sour cream or mayonnaise reduces the overall fat content while maintaining creaminess.
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for keto or low-carb diets when paired with fresh vegetables instead of chips.
- Calcium-Rich: Cheese and Greek yogurt contribute to calcium intake, which supports bone health.
- Probiotic Benefits: Greek yogurt contains probiotics that promote gut health and digestion.
How to Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker
If you want a hands-off cooking method, you can easily make this dip in a slow cooker. Here’s how:
- Add the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, shredded cheeses, blue cheese, and seasonings to a slow cooker.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Once the dip is hot and bubbly, garnish with fresh chives and serve straight from the slow cooker to keep it warm.
This method is great for parties or gatherings since it keeps the dip at the perfect serving temperature without drying out.
How to Make This Recipe in an Instant Pot
Want to make this dip even faster? Try using an Instant Pot:
- Place the raw chicken breasts in the Instant Pot with ½ cup buffalo sauce and ½ cup water or chicken broth.
- Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Quick-release the pressure and shred the chicken using two forks.
- Stir in the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, shredded cheeses, and spices.
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and stir until the dip is melted, creamy, and well combined.
- Serve warm with your favorite dippers!
This method is perfect for when you don’t have pre-cooked chicken on hand and want to make everything in one pot.
Best Dippers for Buffalo Chicken Dip
This dip is extremely versatile and pairs well with a variety of dippers:
- Crunchy Veggies: Celery sticks, carrot sticks, sliced cucumbers, bell peppers
- Crackers & Chips: Pita chips, tortilla chips, whole-grain crackers
- Toasted Breads: Sliced baguette, garlic toast, soft pretzels
- Healthy Options: Baked sweet potato chips, zucchini chips, or protein crackers
- Keto-Friendly Choices: Pork rinds, parmesan crisps, or homemade cheese chips
Creative Ways to Use Leftovers
If you have extra Buffalo Chicken Dip, try these fun ways to repurpose it:
- Buffalo Chicken Wrap: Spread the dip inside a whole wheat tortilla, add some shredded lettuce, and roll it up for a quick lunch.
- Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla: Spread the dip between two tortillas, sprinkle with extra cheese, and cook in a pan until golden brown.
- Buffalo Chicken Pizza: Use the dip as a creamy base on pizza dough, top with mozzarella, and bake for a spicy twist.
- Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers: Spoon the dip into halved bell peppers and bake for a high-protein, low-carb meal.
- Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese: Stir the dip into cooked pasta for a creamy, spicy mac and cheese variation.
How to Make It Dairy-Free
If you need a dairy-free version, here are some easy swaps:
- Use dairy-free cream cheese (such as almond or cashew-based alternatives).
- Replace the Greek yogurt with coconut or cashew yogurt.
- Use dairy-free cheese substitutes like almond-based mozzarella or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Omit the blue cheese or replace it with a dairy-free tangy dressing.
Spicy Level Adjustments
The heat level of Buffalo Chicken Dip can be adjusted to fit different spice preferences:
- Milder Version: Use less buffalo sauce, add more Greek yogurt, and mix in a little honey to balance the heat.
- Extra Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper, extra buffalo sauce, or a few dashes of hot sauce before serving.
- Customizable Heat: Serve with extra buffalo sauce on the side so guests can adjust their spice level.
Buffalo Chicken Dip as a Meal Prep Option
This dip isn’t just for parties—it’s also great for meal prep!
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm it up in the microwave in 30-second intervals or reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
- Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dip without an oven?
Yes! You can make it on the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot instead of baking it. Just cook everything until it’s melted and well combined.
2. What’s the best way to shred chicken quickly?
The easiest way to shred chicken is using a stand mixer or hand mixer. Place warm cooked chicken in a bowl and mix on low speed for 30 seconds until shredded.
3. Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything and store it unbaked in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
4. Is this Buffalo Chicken Dip keto-friendly?
Yes! As long as you serve it with low-carb dippers like celery, pork rinds, or cheese crisps, it’s perfect for a keto diet.
5. Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh chicken?
Yes! Canned chicken works in a pinch, but fresh shredded chicken provides the best texture and flavor.
This High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip is a game-changer for anyone looking for a delicious, protein-packed, and versatile dip. Whether you’re making it for a party, meal prep, or just a snack, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite!
Conclusion
High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a game day gathering, a family party, or simply as a satisfying snack, this dip delivers bold taste with a healthier twist. By using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and adding protein-rich shredded chicken, this version offers a nutritious alternative without compromising on indulgence.
With its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to be customized to different dietary needs, this dip is a go-to recipe that belongs in your collection. Pair it with crunchy veggies, chips, or toasted bread for the perfect balance of textures, or get creative by using leftovers in wraps, quesadillas, or even stuffed peppers. No matter how you serve it, this High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip is guaranteed to be a hit!
So, next time you need a delicious, protein-packed snack that’s easy to make and full of flavor, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!