Buffalo chicken dip has become a game-day and party favorite, with its irresistible combination of spicy buffalo sauce, creamy cheese, and tender chicken. One of the most popular versions is made with Frank's RedHot sauce, which adds the signature tangy heat that buffalo lovers crave.
This dip is perfect for gatherings, tailgating, or any casual get-together. It's easy to make, requires just a few ingredients, and is always a hit. Here’s how to create the ultimate Frank's RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip.
Optional Toppings and Sides:
- Chopped green onions
- Extra Frank’s RedHot sauce for drizzling
- Celery sticks, carrot sticks, tortilla chips, or toasted baguette slices for dipping
Why Use Frank’s RedHot?
Frank’s Red Hot is the go-to buffalo sauce for a reason. It has the perfect balance of tangy and spicy flavors that complement the creamy elements of the dip. Plus, it’s a classic choice for making anything “buffalo” style!
What is buffalo chicken dip made of?
Buffalo chicken dip is made of shredded cooked chicken, cream cheese, Frank's RedHot sauce, ranch or blue cheese dressing, and shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. These ingredients are mixed and baked until hot and bubbly, creating a creamy, spicy dip perfect for serving with chips, celery, or other dippers.
Is Frank's Red Hot original buffalo sauce?
Frank's RedHot Original is not exactly buffalo sauce, but it is the main ingredient used to make it. It’s a cayenne pepper sauce with a tangy, spicy flavor. It becomes the classic buffalo sauce used for wings and dips when mixed with butter or other ingredients.
What do you eat with buffalo chicken dip?
Buffalo chicken dip is typically eaten with tortilla chips, celery sticks, carrot sticks, or toasted baguette slices. It also pairs well with crackers, pretzels, or even bell pepper slices for dipping.
Is buffalo chicken dip better cold or hot?
Buffalo chicken dip is best served hot, as the cheese becomes melted and the flavors blend more smoothly. While you can eat it cold, the texture is creamier and more enjoyable when warm and bubbly.
What is a buffalo dipping sauce made of?
Buffalo dipping sauce is typically made of a mixture of hot sauce (like Frank's Red Hot) and melted butter. Some variations include adding garlic, vinegar, or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. The butter helps to tone down the heat and create a smooth, tangy, and spicy sauce perfect for dipping.
How to make buffalo sauce thicker without cornstarch.
To thicken buffalo sauce without cornstarch, you can use one of these methods:
1. Butter: Add more butter and let the sauce simmer. The fat in the butter helps thicken the sauce while giving it a creamy texture.
2. Flour: Create a roux by cooking flour and butter together before adding the buffalo sauce.
3. Cream cheese: Stir in a small amount of cream cheese to add thickness and richness.
4. Reduce the sauce: Simmer the sauce on low heat to evaporate excess liquid, naturally thickening it.
How to enhance Frank's Red Hot?
To enhance Frank's RedHot, you can:
1. Add honey or brown sugar for a touch of sweetness to balance the heat.
2. Incorporate garlic or onion powder for extra flavor depth.
3. Mix in melted butter for a richer, creamier sauce, especially for wings.
4. Splash in vinegar or lemon juice to boost tanginess.
5. Sprinkle cayenne or smoked paprika to intensify the heat and add smokiness.
These adjustments can tailor the sauce to your taste preferences.
How to tone down buffalo chicken dip?
To tone down buffalo chicken dip, you can:
1. Add more cream cheese or sour cream to mellow the heat and create a creamier texture.
2. Mix in extra shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella to dilute the spiciness.
3. Stir in ranch or blue cheese dressing for cooling flavors.
4. Increase the chicken portion to balance out the heat without altering the dip's consistency.
These steps will help reduce the spiciness while keeping the dip flavorful.
What makes Frank's hot sauce so good?
Frank's Hot Sauce is popular for its balanced flavor, combining:
1. Aged cayenne peppers, which provide a moderate, flavorful heat.
2. Vinegar, offering a tangy kick that complements the spiciness.
3. Garlic and other spices, which add depth and enhance the overall taste.
4. Consistency, with a smooth texture that coats food evenly.
Its blend of tang, heat, and subtle complexity makes it versatile and appealing in a variety of dishes.
Tips and Variations:
1. Adjust seasoning: Tailor salt, spices, or sweetness to your taste.
2. Swap ingredients: Use alternatives like dairy-free options or gluten-free flours if needed.
3. Change cooking methods: Bake, grill, or slow-cook for different textures and flavors.
4. Add garnishes: Fresh herbs, cheese, or sauces can enhance the dish’s presentation and taste.
5. Portion size: Scale the recipe up or down based on servings.
- 2 cups cooked, destroyed chicken (you can involve rotisserie chicken for ease)
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup Frank's RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce (or more, depending on your heat preference)
- ½ cup farm dressing (or blue cheddar dressing, assuming you like)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat Stove: Preheat your broiler to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Frank's RedHot sauce, and ranch dressing until smooth and well combined.
3. Add Chicken & Cheese: Stir in the shredded chicken and ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Move to Baking Dish: Spread the blend into a broiler-safe dish, for example, an 8x8-inch baking dish or a pie dish.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or wafers.
Frank's RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe