This New Hot Honey Buffalo Chicken Dip offers the perfect balance of spicy buffalo sauce and sweet honey, creating a creamy and indulgent appetizer that’s ideal for gatherings, game days, or casual snacks. The combination of shredded chicken, cream cheese, and melted cheese results in a flavorful, gooey dip that’s sure to be a hit at any event.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- Shredded cooked chicken
- Cream cheese
- Buffalo sauce
- Honey
- Ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Green onions (optional for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, honey, and ranch or blue cheese dressing. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Fold in the shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
- Optionally, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to create a golden-brown cheese topping.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
Nutritional Information
Hot Honey Buffalo Chicken Dip is a rich and indulgent appetizer that provides a satisfying balance of creamy, spicy, and sweet flavors. Each serving typically contains around 350 calories, with a substantial amount of protein from the shredded chicken. The blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella results in a creamy texture, while the buffalo sauce and honey create a spicy-sweet kick. The fat content, primarily from the cheese and cream cheese, is relatively high, contributing to its creamy consistency. For those monitoring sodium intake, the combination of buffalo sauce and cheese means this dish is higher in sodium than some other appetizers.
Serving Suggestions
This dip pairs perfectly with crunchy vegetables like celery, carrots, and bell peppers for a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness. It’s also commonly served with tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted baguette slices, which add a satisfying crunch. For a lower-carb option, cucumber slices or zucchini rounds work well as dippers. Serving it in a bread bowl can also add a fun and rustic presentation for gatherings.
Popular Variations
There are numerous ways to customize Hot Honey Buffalo Chicken Dip. Some prefer adding a layer of shredded cheese on top for an even cheesier bite, while others sprinkle blue cheese crumbles for an added tang. For those seeking extra heat, incorporating chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper can provide a spicier kick. Alternatively, adjusting the amount of honey can cater to those who prefer a sweeter balance. Using rotisserie chicken instead of boiled or baked chicken can add convenience and additional flavor.
Ideal Occasions
This dip is a staple for game-day parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. Its creamy texture and bold flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, and it remains a conversation starter at any social event. Since it can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving, it’s also a practical choice for hosting.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Hot Honey Buffalo Chicken Dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in an oven-safe dish and warm it at 350°F until heated through. Microwave reheating is also an option, though stirring halfway through will ensure even heating. For those planning to serve the dip at a later date, it can be frozen before baking, then thawed overnight in the refrigerator and baked as usual.
Health Considerations
While this dip is delicious, it is a calorie-dense option due to its creamy base and cheese content. Individuals following a low-fat or low-sodium diet may want to explore lighter substitutions, such as using reduced-fat cream cheese or a yogurt-based alternative. Additionally, reducing the amount of honey or opting for a sugar-free version can lower the sugar content.
Beverage Pairings
The creamy and spicy flavors of Hot Honey Buffalo Chicken Dip pair well with refreshing drinks like lemonade, iced tea, or even light beers. For a more indulgent pairing, try it with a glass of white wine or a cider. Those who prefer cocktails may enjoy a classic margarita or a spicy Bloody Mary alongside the dip.
Make-Ahead Tips
To save time, the dip mixture can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, transfer it to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly. This makes it a convenient choice for busy hosts who want to minimize last-minute preparation.
Kid-Friendly Adaptations
For younger guests or those sensitive to spice, the heat can be toned down by reducing the amount of buffalo sauce or substituting a mild sauce. Additionally, using a sweeter honey or incorporating a bit more cream cheese can mellow out the spice, making it more palatable for children.
Presentation Ideas
Serving Hot Honey Buffalo Chicken Dip in a cast-iron skillet or a decorative baking dish adds a rustic touch. Garnishing with fresh chopped parsley, green onions, or crumbled blue cheese enhances its visual appeal. Placing an assortment of colorful vegetables and chips around the dish creates a vibrant and inviting presentation.
Leftover Usage
Leftover dip can be repurposed into other dishes for added variety. It works well as a filling for quesadillas, a topping for baked potatoes, or as a creamy sauce for pasta. Mixing it into scrambled eggs or a breakfast casserole also introduces a flavorful twist to morning meals.
Regional Popularity
Hot Honey Buffalo Chicken Dip has gained popularity across various regions in the United States, especially in areas where game day traditions and tailgating are prevalent. The unique combination of sweet honey and spicy buffalo sauce reflects a growing trend of fusing contrasting flavors, making it a favored choice for local sports events, family cookouts, and gatherings. Many households have adopted their own spin on the recipe, making it a staple at community events and potlucks.
Conclusion
Hot Honey Buffalo Chicken Dip offers a delightful combination of creamy, spicy, and sweet flavors that are sure to impress guests. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and indulgent taste make it a go-to choice for gatherings and special occasions. With numerous variations available, this dip can be customized to suit different preferences, making it a true crowd favorite. Whether paired with crunchy vegetables, chips, or bread, this dish will undoubtedly be a hit at your next event.