Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip
Let’s talk dips the kind that make everyone crowd around the bowl, dunking chip after chip, going “just one more bite” until it’s gone. That’s the energy of Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip. It’s bold, creamy, spicy, smoky, and downright addictive. This isn’t your average buffalo chicken dip nope, this version adds a rich, smoky depth that takes it from “oh, that’s good” to “HOLY WOW.” Whether you’re throwing a game day party, a backyard hangout, or just want something indulgent for movie night, this dip is ready to be the MVP. Trust me, it’s not just a dip it’s an experience.
Why You’ll Love Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Serve it as a dip, stuff it in sandwiches, or spoon it over baked potatoes the possibilities are endless.
Budget-Friendly: Uses basic ingredients you likely already have, and it feeds a crowd!
Quick and Easy: Mix it up, throw it on the smoker, and let the magic happen.
Customizable: Dial up the heat, change the cheese, or add mix-ins it’s easy to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Ingredients in Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip
Here’s what you’ll need to create this smoky, spicy, cheesy masterpiece:
Cooked Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works great juicy, flavorful, and easy.
Cream Cheese: Makes the dip ultra creamy and smooth.
Buffalo Sauce: The star of the show tangy, spicy, and totally irresistible.
Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Adds that cool, tangy counterpoint to the heat.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend all melt beautifully and add cheesy richness.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: For that savory, layered flavor.
Optional Toppings: Extra cheese, chopped green onions, blue cheese crumbles, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Preheat Your Equipment
Fire up your smoker to 250°F (120°C). Let it heat up while you prep everything this low and slow cook gives the dip its signature smoky depth.
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch or blue cheese dressing, shredded cheese, and seasonings until fully combined.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel
Scoop the mixture into a cast iron skillet, foil tray, or oven-safe dish that’s smoker-friendly. Spread it out evenly and top with a little extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent (and you should be).
Assemble the Dish
Once your smoker is ready, place the dish inside and close the lid. Let the smoke work its magic—no stirring needed!
Cook to Perfection
Smoke the dip for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it’s bubbling hot and the cheese on top is golden and melty. That smoky aroma is going to have everyone hovering around the grill.
Finishing Touches
Carefully remove from the smoker and let it cool for 5–10 minutes. Top with green onions, crumbled blue cheese, or an extra drizzle of buffalo sauce if desired.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm with tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, celery sticks, or even crispy waffle fries—whatever your heart desires.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 10
Calories per serving: 290
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
How to Serve Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve with sturdy tortilla chips, toasted bread, or crackers for maximum scooping power.
- Pair with celery and carrot sticks to balance the heat and keep things fresh.
- Use it as a filling for sliders or wraps so good for parties!
- Spoon over baked potatoes or nachos for an indulgent twist.
- Add it to your next mac and cheese for a buffalo-inspired upgrade.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use hickory or applewood pellets/chips for a deep, balanced smoke flavor.
- Want it spicier? Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
- Make ahead and refrigerate just smoke it when you’re ready to serve.
- Don’t have a smoker? You can bake it in the oven at 375°F for 20–25 minutes.
- Mix in crispy bacon bits for a smoky crunch.
- Use low-fat cream cheese and dressing for a lighter version.
- Leftovers are amazing spread on toast or stuffed into bell peppers.
- Keep warm during parties by transferring to a small slow cooker.
- Taste and adjust spice level before smoking—everyone has a different heat tolerance.
- Stir occasionally if smoking for longer than 90 minutes to keep it smooth and melty.
FAQ’s
1. Can I make this without a smoker?
Yes! Just bake it in the oven at 375°F for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and hot.
2. What kind of chicken works best?
Shredded rotisserie chicken is ideal for flavor and ease, but any cooked chicken works.
3. Can I use blue cheese instead of ranch?
Absolutely blue cheese adds a bold, tangy kick that pairs perfectly with buffalo sauce.
4. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Mix everything together and refrigerate. Smoke or bake just before serving.
5. How spicy is it?
It depends on your buffalo sauce use mild, medium, or hot based on your preference.
6. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but the texture may change slightly. Reheat gently and stir well.
7. What’s the best cheese to use?
A combo of cheddar and mozzarella melts beautifully and adds great flavor.
8. How long does it stay warm?
It stays warm for about 30 minutes on the table, or longer in a slow cooker on low.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Definitely just use a larger dish and extend the smoking time slightly.
10. How do I reheat it?
Microwave in short bursts or bake at 350°F until hot and bubbly again.
Conclusion
Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip is more than just a party snack it’s a flavor bomb that brings the heat, the smoke, the creaminess, and the crowd-pleasing magic all in one irresistible dish. Whether you’re serving it at a tailgate, potluck, or just because you feel like being extra today, this dip guarantees rave reviews and empty bowls. So grab some chips, fire up that smoker, and let’s make snack time legendary!
Print
Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip is a spicy, creamy, and smoky appetizer made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, and cheese — perfect for parties, game days, or BBQs.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra smoky flavor)
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat smoker to 250°F (120°C).
- In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, cheddar, and mozzarella until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a cast iron skillet or aluminum pan and spread evenly.
- Place the pan in the smoker and smoke uncovered for 1 hour, until hot and bubbly with a light smoky flavor.
- Garnish with green onions or parsley before serving with chips, crackers, or veggies.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for easy prep.
- Can be baked at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes if you don’t have a smoker.
- Add blue cheese crumbles on top for a classic buffalo flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: buffalo chicken dip, smoked dip, party appetizer, game day snack, cheesy chicken dip