Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy all the rich flavors of traditional Buffalo chicken dip with reduced-fat ingredients, allowing you to indulge without the extra calories.
- Quick and Easy: With just five simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this dip comes together in no time, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with a variety of dippers like celery sticks, carrot sticks, tortilla chips, or whole-grain crackers to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
- 2 (10-ounce) cans natural chunk chicken, drained
- 1 cup Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce
- 2 (8-ounce) packages 1/3 less fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup light ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese, divided
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, mix the drained chicken with the Buffalo wing sauce. Heat until warmed through.
- Incorporate Creaminess: Stir in the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture is well blended and heated.
- Add Cheese: Mix in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
- Transfer and Heat: Pour the mixture into a slow cooker. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Cover and cook on the low setting until the dip is hot and bubbly, about 1 hour.
*Note: Alternatively, you can bake the dip in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 10-15 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 6
- Preparation Time: 1 minute
- Cooking Time: 1 hour (using a slow cooker)
Variations
- Shredded Chicken: Replace canned chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts for a different texture.
- Cheese Options: Add mozzarella cheese on top for extra cheesiness.
- Dressing Choice: Swap ranch dressing for blue cheese dressing if preferred.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Buffalo sauce to suit your heat preference.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts can be used in place of canned chicken.
2. Is this dip suitable for vegetarians?
No, this dip contains chicken. For a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based chicken substitutes.
3. Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dip and refrigerate before heating. When ready to serve, warm it in the slow cooker or oven.
4. How can I make this dip spicier?
Increase the amount of Buffalo sauce or add chopped jalapeños to the mixture.
5. Can I use full-fat cream cheese?
Using full-fat cream cheese will increase the calorie content. For a healthier option, stick with the 1/3 less fat cream cheese.
6. Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you serve it with gluten-free dippers.
7. Can I freeze this dip?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dip, as the texture may change upon thawing.
8. How do I keep the dip warm during a party?
Keep the dip in a slow cooker on the warm setting or use a thermal carrier to maintain its temperature.
9. What are the best dippers for this dip?
Celery sticks, carrot sticks, tortilla chips, and whole-grain crackers are excellent choices.
10. Can I make this dip in the oven?
Yes, baking instructions are provided in the directions above.
Conclusion
This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip combines the spicy, tangy flavors of Buffalo sauce with creamy, cheesy goodness, all while being a lighter option for health-conscious individuals. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Print
Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip is a lighter take on the classic spicy, creamy appetizer. Made with reduced-fat ingredients, this guilt-free version delivers all the bold flavors you love, perfect for any gathering or snack.
Ingredients
2 (10-ounce) cans natural chunk chicken, drained
1 cup Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce
2 (8-ounce) packages 1/3 less fat cream cheese, softened
1 cup light ranch dressing
1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
-
Combine Chicken and Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, mix the drained chicken with Buffalo wing sauce. Heat until warmed through.
-
Incorporate Creaminess: Stir in the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture is well blended and heated.
-
Add Cheese: Mix in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
-
Transfer and Heat: Pour the mixture into a slow cooker. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Cover and cook on low until hot and bubbly, about 1 hour.
Notes
Shredded Chicken: Swap canned chicken with shredded rotisserie or cooked chicken breasts for a different texture.
Cheese Options: Add mozzarella cheese on top for extra cheesiness.
Spice Level: Adjust the Buffalo sauce to suit your heat preference.
Dressing Choice: Use blue cheese dressing instead of ranch for a different flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour (slow cooker)
- Category: Snack
- Method: Slow Cooker, Stovetop, Oven
- Cuisine: American
