Ingredients for Easy & Healthy High-Protein Buffalo Chicken dip

• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken breast: The star protein for this High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip. Provides a hearty, satisfying base. Use rotisserie chicken for ultimate ease.
• 8 ounces (1 block) full-fat cream cheese, softened: Creates the incredibly creamy, rich texture of the dip. Softening ensures a smooth, lump-free blend. Use full-fat for best results.
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 0% or 2% fat: Adds a healthy, tangy boost and significant protein, making this dip lighter. Choose plain Greek yogurt, not vanilla, for savory dishes.
• 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, packed: Provides gooey, melty goodness and a sharp, savory flavor. Shred your own for superior melt and no anti-caking agents.
• 1/2 cup Buffalo hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot): The essential zesty kick that defines Buffalo flavor. Adjust to your preferred spice level for perfect heat. Frank’s RedHot is classic.
• 1/2 cup full-fat ranch dressing: Contributes a savory, herby tang and extra creaminess, complementing the hot sauce beautifully. Use your favorite brand or homemade ranch.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a foundational layer of aromatic depth to the dip. Essential for balancing the tangy flavors. Don’t skip this savory builder.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall savory profile, providing a subtle, sweet onion flavor. Works synergistically with garlic powder. A key flavor builder.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Offers a deep umami boost and complexity, rounding out the flavors. A little goes a long way in adding richness. Don’t overdo it.
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese: Delivers the characteristic pungent, tangy flavor that makes Buffalo dip authentic. Adds a sophisticated edge. Choose a good quality blue cheese.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Balances and brightens all the other flavors, making them pop. Always taste and adjust salt at the end. Use kosher salt.
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Provides a subtle warmth and a gentle aromatic bite. Freshly ground pepper offers the best flavor. Add to taste.
• 2 tablespoons fresh green onions, sliced: Adds a fresh, mild oniony crunch and vibrant color, perfect for finishing the dip. Garnish just before serving for best appearance.
• 1/4 cup extra crumbled blue cheese, for topping: Provides an extra burst of classic Buffalo tang and visual appeal for serving. This truly elevates the presentation and taste.

How to Make Easy & Healthy High-Protein Buffalo Chicken dip

Step 1: Prep Oven & Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure your full-fat cream cheese is softened and the chicken breast is shredded for effortless mixing. This initial preparation ensures a smooth process for your Easy & Healthy High-Protein Buffalo Chicken dip.

Step 2: Whisk Creamy Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, Buffalo hot sauce, ranch dressing, Worcestershire, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until beautifully smooth and emulsified. This creates the zesty foundation for the dip.

Step 3: Fold in Chicken

Gently fold the shredded cooked chicken and 1.5 cups of sharp cheddar cheese into your creamy base. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and coated. Avoid overmixing to maintain a light texture in your Easy & Healthy High-Protein Buffalo Chicken dip.

Step 4: Transfer to Dish

Spoon the entire mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the 1/2 cup of crumbled blue cheese over the top. This readies the dip for baking, ensuring even heating and a delicious cheesy crust.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Bake for 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C), or until the dip is hot, bubbly around the edges, and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden. This perfect bake seals in all the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Remove the Easy & Healthy High-Protein Buffalo Chicken dip from the oven. Garnish with fresh green onions and the extra 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese. Serve immediately with your favorite dippers for a crowd-pleasing snack!

How to Store Easy & Healthy High-Protein Buffalo Chicken dip

To store leftover High-Protein Buffalo Chicken dip, transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly for up to 3-4 days to keep it fresh. Leaving it out too long can compromise its freshness and safety, a mistake I’ve made! Always discard if it develops an off smell or appearance.

For make-ahead convenience, prepare the creamy base and shredded chicken up to 2 days in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the dip just before baking for optimal results.

Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warm throughout. Stir well for even heating.

What to Serve with Easy & Healthy High-Protein Buffalo Chicken dip

Serve this incredibly easy and healthy High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip warm, straight from the oven, for the best experience. For game day or parties, present it beautifully by garnishing with extra crumbled blue cheese and fresh green onions. It’s perfect for a crowd to enjoy! Pair it with crisp celery and carrot sticks for a refreshing crunch, or sturdy pita chips for an extra bite.

My personal favorite way to serve this dip is with a generous bowl of sturdy tortilla chips and vibrant bell pepper strips. The chips are perfect for scooping, and the fresh peppers offer a delightful crispness. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy it!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute Greek yogurt in this High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip?

No, I don’t recommend substituting Greek yogurt. It’s crucial for the high-protein aspect and creamy texture. Using alternatives often makes the dip watery, a mistake I’ve made. Stick to 0% or 2% fat Greek yogurt for the best results.

→ How do I prevent my High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip from becoming watery or lumpy?

To prevent issues, fully soften your full-fat cream cheese. Lumps occur from cold cream cheese, and using anything but full-fat dairy makes it watery. I learned this the hard way! Gently warm cream cheese and Greek yogurt slightly before mixing.

→ How long can I store leftover Easy & Healthy High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip?

You can store leftover High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I always discard it if it smells off. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, stirring well for even warmth.

→ Can I make this Buffalo Chicken Dip ahead of time for a party?

Yes, you can definitely make this Buffalo Chicken Dip ahead! Prepare the creamy base and shred the chicken up to 2 days prior, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the dip just before serving for the best bubbly, fresh experience.

→ What if I need to double or halve this Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe?

Yes, you can easily double or halve this Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe. Simply adjust all ingredient quantities proportionally. For doubling, use a larger baking dish, like two 9×13 dishes. Keep an eye on baking time; larger portions might need a few extra minutes.