Are you looking for the perfect game-day snack that aligns with your keto lifestyle? Look no further than this Keto Buffalo Chicken Dip! It’s a spicy, creamy, and cheesy dip that's incredibly easy to make and customize to your preferred heat level. This recipe is a guaranteed win for any gathering, even with those who aren't following a low-carb diet.
Why This Dip is a Game Changer
This Keto Buffalo Chicken Dip is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here's why it's a must-have for your recipe collection:
- Crowd-Friendly: Even those not on a low-carb diet will love it.
- Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spice to your liking.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble it in advance and bake when ready.
- Versatile: Perfect with fresh veggies, low-carb crackers, or as a buffalo chicken flauta.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients and how to customize them:
- Chicken: Cooked and shredded skinless chicken breasts. Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver, but leftover grilled chicken or canned chicken can also be used.
- Cream Cheese: This forms the base of the dip. For a lighter option, consider using Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat and calories.
- Buffalo Sauce: Frank’s Red Hot is the traditional choice for authentic Buffalo flavor, offering a balance of heat and a strong vinegar base. For a spicier kick, use Frank’s hot sauce.
- Cheese: A combination of shredded cheddar and mozzarella is ideal. You can experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor and spice. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it doesn't melt as smoothly.
- Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Use keto-friendly ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a pop of color and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make this delectable dip:
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 1-quart baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese (8 ounces), buffalo sauce (1/2 cup), blue cheese dressing (1/2 cup), 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of shredded chicken. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. An electric mixer can be helpful, but a rubber spatula works if the cream cheese is soft enough.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Flatten the top with a spatula.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the dip is heated through.
- Garnish: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with the remaining blue cheese crumbles and sliced green onions (1/4 cup).
- Serve: Serve warm with your favorite dippers.
Cooking Options
You have several options for cooking your Keto Buffalo chicken dip:
Read also: Creamy Keto Ranch Chicken Recipe
- Oven Baked: Preheat your oven to 350°F then soften the cream cheese first in a microwave safe bowl and then mix in all the remaining ingredients.
- Stovetop: Cut the cream cheese into small pieces and add to the pan over a medium heat until softened. Then add the cooked chicken, Colby Jack cheese, Cheddar Cheese, Mayonnaise, Sour cream, Garlic powder, Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce and mix really well and continue stirring until it’s warmed through.
- Slow Cooker or Crockpot: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature, cut it into small pieces and microwave until soft then add to your crockpot. Add all the remaining ingredients and stir well. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serving Suggestions
This dip is fantastic with a variety of dippers:
- Vegetables: Celery sticks, carrot sticks, sliced bell peppers, broccoli, and cauliflower.
- Low-Carb Crackers: Choose your favorite low-carb crackers for a satisfying crunch.
- Tortilla Chips or Toasted Pita Bread: For those who aren't strictly keto, these make great options.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Dip
- Spice It Up: For a spicier dip, use Frank’s hot sauce instead of wing sauce and add ground cayenne pepper to reach your desired level of heat.
- Cheese Choice: Grate your own cheese instead of buying pre-shredded for better melting.
- Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dip ahead of time and store it (covered) in an ovenproof dish in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Remember that it may take a little longer to bake if baking from chilled.
Healthier Variations
To lighten up this classic dip, consider these substitutions:
- Neufchâtel Cheese: Swap full-fat cream cheese for Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat and calories.
- Greek Yogurt: Use nonfat or 2% Greek yogurt instead of bottled Ranch dressing. It adds a tangy flavor, is packed with protein, and is low in carbohydrates.
Storing and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave at 50% power in 1-minute intervals, stirring after each minute, until heated through.
- Freezing: While not recommended due to the sour cream and cream cheese content, you can freeze the dip. Assemble it in a freezer-safe baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as per the recipe instructions.
Keto Chicken Parmesan Dip Variation
If you're a fan of chicken parmesan, try this keto-friendly twist. Combine cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, basil, garlic, salt, pepper, shredded chicken, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese in a bowl. Transfer the mixture to a skillet or casserole dish, layer fresh mozzarella slices on top of marinara sauce, and bake.
Read also: Low-carb chicken nuggets recipe.
Read also: Grill & Air Fryer Keto Chicken