Hot Chicken Wing Dip Recipe

Hot Chicken Wing Dip Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 pound skinless boneless chicken breasts
  • 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (12 ounce) bottle hot pepper sauce
  • 1 (8 ounce) bottle ranch dressing
  • 1 (16 ounce) package shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).

Step 2: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until the juices run clear, about 4 minutes per side.

Step 3: Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it cool completely. Once cooled, shred the chicken into strands using a fork.

Step 4: In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, hot pepper sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix well until fully blended.

Step 5: Add the shredded chicken to the mixture and stir until well combined.

Step 6: Transfer the chicken mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories 161
Total Fat 14g
Saturated Fat 7g
Cholesterol 41mg
Sodium 485mg
Total Carbohydrate 1g
Dietary Fiber 0g
Total Sugars 1g
Protein 8g
Vitamin C 8mg
Calcium 117mg
Iron 0mg
Potassium 75mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

History of Hot Chicken Wing Dip

Hot Chicken Wing Dip, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, emerged in the United States as part of the wave of "buffalo-style" foods. While buffalo wings, created in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s, gained immense popularity, this dip variant was likely inspired by the combination of classic wing flavorsspicy hot sauce, tangy ranch, and gooey cheeseserved in a more convenient, shareable form. The recipe likely came about in the 1990s, when parties and gatherings became more centered around dips and finger foods. Its creamy, spicy flavor profile made it an instant hit at game nights, tailgates, and casual get-togethers.

Regional Features

The Hot Chicken Wing Dip is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in regions where buffalo wings are a beloved food tradition. The recipe's ingredientscream cheese, ranch dressing, shredded chicken, and hot saucereflect the typical flavors of American comfort food, especially in the Midwest and Southern states. Though it can be found across the country, it enjoys a particular spot in Buffalo-style cuisine, which originates from the famous city of Buffalo, New York. In these areas, variations of the dish may include additional local touches, such as blue cheese or different types of hot sauces.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While many hot dips feature cheese and creamy bases, the Hot Chicken Wing Dip distinguishes itself with its buffalo wing-inspired ingredients. Unlike classic cheese dips, which might rely on simple cheese or cream-based mixtures, this dip brings the spicy, vinegary kick of hot wings and combines it with the richness of ranch dressing. Its use of shredded chicken also sets it apart from dips that feature beans, sausage, or other meats. Compared to a typical buffalo wing, this dip eliminates the hassle of bones and offers a creamy, gooey texture thats perfect for dipping.

Where is it Usually Served?

Hot Chicken Wing Dip is a popular choice at casual gatherings, particularly those centered around sports events like Super Bowl parties, tailgates, or any occasion that involves finger food and socializing. It's often served with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced vegetables, which complement its creamy texture and spicy flavor. Due to its ease of preparation and ability to serve a crowd, it has become a staple at potlucks, barbecues, and even holiday celebrations, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas. This dips popularity is largely driven by its balance of heat, creaminess, and cheesiness, making it a guaranteed hit at any event.

Fun Facts

  • The origins of the Hot Chicken Wing Dip are believed to be tied to the widespread popularity of buffalo wings in the 1990s when the buffalo wing craze swept across the country.
  • The dip has many variations: some people prefer blue cheese dressing over ranch, or even mix in bacon for added flavor.
  • Its often served in a slow cooker for ease and to keep it warm for extended periods, making it a perfect dish for parties.
  • Leftovers, if any, can be transformed into a delicious chicken wing soup by adding chicken stock to the dip mixture and heating it up.
  • Despite its indulgent nature, the dip is often referred to as a "lighter" version of buffalo wings due to its dip format and absence of fried skin.

FAQ about Hot Chicken Wing Dip Recipe

Leftover Hot Chicken Wing Dip should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the dip in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

Yes, you can freeze Hot Chicken Wing Dip. Place it in an airtight, freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Yes, you can prepare the dip a day ahead. Assemble the dip but do not bake it. Cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. The next day, simply bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

You can substitute ranch dressing with blue cheese dressing, or for a healthier option, try a Greek yogurt-based dressing. Adjust the flavor to your liking, as these substitutes will slightly change the taste.

Yes, pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, works well for this recipe. Just shred it and add it to the mixture instead of cooking fresh chicken breasts.

To adjust the spiciness, use less hot sauce if you prefer a milder dip. Alternatively, you can use a milder buffalo sauce or add more cream cheese to tone down the heat.

Yes, you can make this dip in a slow cooker. Simply combine all ingredients, and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the dip is hot and the cheese has melted. Stir occasionally to prevent the dip from sticking.

This dip is best served with tortilla chips, crackers, or celery sticks for dipping. You can also pair it with bread slices or vegetable sticks for a lighter option.

This recipe yields approximately 32 servings, depending on portion size. It makes about 8 cups of dip.

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version. However, the dip may not have the same creamy texture as with cream cheese.

Comments

ONLYMADARESANE

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

Alright- I do it a bit different. Boil up chicken (I use a package, 3-4 breasts) shred. Add in about a cup of Franks Hot Sauce, then about a cup of Ranch dressing ( I do use the cheaper brand for this- doesn't seem to matter) 1/2 a package of finely shredded sharp cheddar and 1 package of cream cheese. Mix well and put in an 8x8 pan to bake for about 30 min at 350. Top with cheese and bake again until melted. Best with tortilla chips. Tastes GREAT!

Lisa

10/25/2010 04:57:06 PM

This was delicious!!! I used Franks hot wing sauce and put mine in the crock pot on low for about 4 hours versus baking it, and then just turned it to the warm setting afterwards so it stayed heated throughout the evening.

smdane05

10/01/2011 10:44:58 PM

Just for those making this for a party here is what I did. I boiled the chicken, I used more than 1 lb, and then cubes it. I had the cream cheese sitting out while I did it. I also added a half stick of butter to the chicken after I cubes it. I took the cream cheese, hot sause and ranch and used my ninja to blend it and took out my ninja blade. I added the chicken to the ninja container with the mix in it and stuck in the fridge overnight. The morning of the party I used my crockpot on high for an hour and then added the shredded cheese. Once the cheese melted I lowered it to the low setting and once the party began I used the warm setting. I think next time I am going to use bleu cheese and also have celery to use to dip with!

Shauna

02/05/2011 10:50:51 PM

Love this recipe, I do it a bit differently though. I used a cup each of Franks buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. I also used 3 cans (drained) of chicken breast chunks to save on time. Also to save on time, we mix in the cup of shredded cheese and throw it in the crock pot...YUM!

Jdunnican

12/05/2007 07:09:29 AM

I made this Dip for an appetizer on thanksgiving. It was delicious. I do have one tip though. If your going to make it the night before to save oven space don't put the cheese on yet. Make the main part of the dip, put it away and then add the cheese on top the day your going to serve it.(Microwave it if you can't use the oven.) I wasn't thinking and I cooked it all the night before. The cheese was VERY hard, but the dip underneath was good. I think it would have been the best dip ever if the cheese was melted right before. Oh and DON'T add the full amount of hot sauce. I used half of what the recipe called for and it was spicy enough.

erica

02/14/2015 10:41:44 AM

I made this for a party and everyone raved about it. Several people commented that it was the best chicken wing dip they ever had. I made 2 small changes. I used blue cheese instead of ranch and I mixed half of the shredded cheese into the mixture and put the other half on top.

HomeGrownCheffie

09/15/2016 11:40:29 PM

I loved this recipe. I made my own ranch dressing and used my own buffalo wing sauce and it turned out incredibly well. I minced the chicken instead of shredding it and there were small chunks of chicken in every bite. I will definitely make it again.

Sarah Jo

12/29/2011 08:17:18 AM

I used my own dry ranch dressing mix that I made into ranch dressing using reduced fat sour cream and buttermilk. Other than that, I made no other changes. My three men loved this dip BUT my husband thought it could be a little less "drippy". He suggested I either cut back on the liquids a bit or add more chicken.

Karen

01/26/2009 05:10:33 PM

Everyone LOVES it!! I buy a roast chicken that you can get in the deli section of your grocery store and just shred the meat off the bone. Then I mix the chicken and the bottle of Franks Hot Wing Sauce into a 9X13 pan and stick it in the oven to warm while I mix the rest. I then melt the cream cheese and ranch together on the stove top, low heat and spread it over the chicken, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and bake until bubbly and brown. I serve with tortilla chips.

Iloveflorida71

11/19/2011 12:51:47 PM

This is the recipe I always use. Just a easier tip, I go to my grocery store and buy a rotisserie chicken so I don't have to cook the chicken. It's way faster. Also, to make the soup all you have to do is take any left over dip and add chicken stock to your desired consistency for a delicious chicken wing soup.

Audrey Marshall

02/09/2011 04:57:36 PM

VERY tasty!! The only change I made was to use (2) 10 oz. cans of chicken breast. I wanted something a bit faster. Next time I make it, I will cut down just a little bit on the hot sauce. It's great the first few bites, but then gets a little too hot for my stomach! The next day, I poured the left overs on baked tortilla chips and stuck it in the oven. It was fantastic!!!

Nathan Hernandez

05/15/2024 12:54:18 AM

Even my picky roommate loved it.

Allen Eberhart

02/06/2023 03:15:46 AM

I like using Bacon Ranch Dressing

jot

12/26/2020 09:37:24 PM

It tasted good before it went in the oven. After it came out as it cooled it developed an oily pool on the surface. It was barely touched. Unfortunately I will not be making it again.

Missyhh

12/25/2020 02:01:51 AM

I made this as part of our Christmas Eve appetizers. This is now one of our favorites. My husband said it was a keeper. I put the broiler on for about 5 min to brown the cheese after the 10 min.

Lisa Khemani

04/13/2020 12:44:35 AM

Always a hit!

hamy602

05/02/2019 03:14:43 AM

I follow the recipe (except I make sure to buy buffalo sauce - Frank’s - instead of just pepper sauce..). This one is always delicious, and always a crowd pleaser! It is one of my go-to recipes!

Penny Treadwell

04/30/2019 03:21:25 PM

Easy, very nice for a crowd to enjoy!

Andrew Fegal

12/16/2018 04:20:51 PM

This is my go to dish for pitch-ins. I never come home with ledtovers.

Cameron

11/21/2018 06:56:07 PM

Turned out really good