Are you craving that creamy, cheesy, spicy buffalo chicken dip but trying to cut back on the cream cheese? You're in luck! This recipe delivers all the bold buffalo flavor you love, without the heavy cream cheese base. It’s a lighter, healthier option that's perfect for game day, a casual get-together, or even a quick weeknight dinner with tortilla chips or veggies. This easy recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts)
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (choose a light version for a healthier option)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (adds creaminess without the richness of cream cheese)
- 2 tablespoons Frank's RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Chicken: If you haven't already, cook and shred your chicken breasts. You can boil, bake, or grill them – whatever method you prefer. Shredding the chicken ensures even cooking and distribution of flavor in the dip.
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Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
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Sauté Aromatics (Optional): For an even deeper flavor, you can add a finely chopped onion or a few cloves of minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened. This step is completely optional, but highly recommended!
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Combine Ingredients: Add the Rotel (undrained), shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Frank's RedHot sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken. This helps create a delicious, cohesive dip.
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Stir in Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir until the cheese is melted and the dip is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve and Enjoy!: Transfer the buffalo chicken dip to an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through. Alternatively, serve it immediately without baking. Serve hot with your favorite tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers.
Cooking Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Dip:
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Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Frank's RedHot sauce according to your preference. If you like things extra spicy, add more!
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Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A blend of sharp cheddar and pepper jack would also be delicious.
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Make it Ahead: You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it gently before serving.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on 12 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: 5-8g
Variations:
- Add Veggies: Include chopped bell peppers, onions, or jalapenos for extra flavor and texture.
- Creamy Ranch: Mix in a tablespoon or two of ranch dressing for a tangier flavor.
- Bacon Bits: Crumble some cooked bacon on top for extra savory goodness.
This buffalo chicken dip recipe is a quick, easy, and healthier alternative to traditional recipes. It's a great example of homemade cooking that tastes amazing and fits into a healthy meal plan. Perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite among your family and friends. It's one of the best recipes for those seeking delicious, satisfying meals.