Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip Slow Cooker – This Wildly Popular Dip Is a Total Showstopper

This Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker recipe is a creamy, spicy crowd-pleaser made with just 6 ingredients—shredded chicken, Frank’s RedHot buffalo sauce, cream cheese, sour cream, ranch, and cheddar. Inspired by my culinary journey and love for comforting, shareable food, this easy crockpot dip is perfect for game days, parties, or casual gatherings. At Yumi Meals, I create simple, soul-nourishing recipes, and this slow cooker buffalo chicken dip is one you’ll turn to again and again.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip Is a Must-Have Slow Cooker Recipe

The Origin of Buffalo Chicken Dip and Party Food Culture

Buffalo chicken dip was inspired by the classic Buffalo wings born in Buffalo, New York. What started as a bar snack evolved into a creamy, scoopable version perfect for chips, crackers, and even veggies. Over the years, it’s found a permanent spot on appetizer tables across America, especially on game days. Its flavor profile—spicy, tangy, and cheesy—is downright addictive.

And when it’s made in a slow cooker, the dip becomes even more irresistible. Slow cooking enhances the richness of the cheeses and helps the flavors meld seamlessly, creating a creamy, warm dip that stays ready for hours. That’s exactly why crockpot versions are so popular—they’re effortless, make-ahead, and always a hit.

Why Frank’s RedHot Is the Gold Standard in Buffalo Dips

If there’s one ingredient that defines the flavor of this dip, it’s Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce. Unlike plain hot sauce, Frank’s buffalo version is already infused with butter and seasonings, giving the dip that iconic “buffalo wing” flavor without needing to blend a bunch of ingredients. It brings a tangy heat that’s bold but balanced—perfect for party-goers who enjoy spice without going overboard.

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Frank’s RedHot is more than just tradition—it’s the go-to for recipes that demand consistency in flavor and performance. When combined with cream cheese, ranch, cheddar, and sour cream, it creates the ultimate velvety, spicy blend that makes every bite of this dip unforgettable.

Key Ingredients and What Makes This Dip Irresistible

Full Breakdown of Each Ingredient and Its Role in Flavor

The secret to a flawless Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker recipe lies in the perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and savory ingredients. This six-ingredient blend creates a dip that’s bold yet comforting—ideal for every occasion, from game day to potlucks.

• Shredded Chicken (4 cups): The foundation of this buffalo chicken dip is finely shredded chicken. Rotisserie chicken works great because it’s juicy and easy to shred. The smaller the chicken pieces, the better they melt into the dip, creating that signature scoopable texture.
• Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce (1 cup): No Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker recipe is complete without this iconic sauce. Unlike traditional hot sauce, Frank’s buffalo version includes butter and seasoning for a rich, mellowed heat. It delivers the authentic buffalo wing flavor that makes this dip so addictive.
• Cream Cheese (2 blocks, cubed): Soft, velvety cream cheese brings this slow cooker buffalo chicken dip together. It acts as a binder and gives the dip a rich, creamy texture. Let it soften before use so it melts faster during cooking.
• Ranch Dressing (1/2 cup): This classic pairing enhances the creaminess and tones down the heat from the buffalo sauce. Ranch also adds an herby tang that deepens the overall flavor of the buffalo chicken dip.
• Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Adds a light, slightly tangy twist to balance the richness of the cheese and ranch. Sour cream helps loosen the texture without making the dip watery.
• Cheddar Cheese (1½ cups, divided): What’s a cheesy dip without sharp cheddar? It melts beautifully and brings a bold, savory bite. Use one cup inside the dip, and save the rest for a cheesy topping.
• Optional Garnishes: Want to elevate your Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker presentation? Top with sliced green onions for a fresh touch or sprinkle blue cheese crumbles for a bold, tangy kick.

Can You Substitute Ingredients Like Cheese or Dressing?

Yes! What makes this slow cooker buffalo chicken dip truly great is how easy it is to customize. Here are some easy swaps that maintain flavor while letting you tweak it to your liking:

Original Ingredient	Substitution Option	Resulting Flavor
Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce	Any mild/hot buffalo sauce	Adjusts spice and depth
Ranch Dressing	Blue cheese dressing	Stronger, tangier buffalo flavor
Sour Cream	Plain Greek yogurt	Slightly sharper, less creamy
Cheddar Cheese	Monterey Jack or Mozzarella	Mild and extra gooey
Cream Cheese	Light cream cheese or Neufchâtel	Lighter texture, less fat

If you’re making this dip for a crowd, especially for events like Super Bowl Sunday or tailgating, sticking with the traditional combo of Frank’s buffalo sauce and cheddar gives the most authentic flavor.

Don’t miss our chicken-breast-and-vegetable-slow-cooker-recipes to explore more ways to transform chicken into crowd-pleasing dishes.

Step-by-Step – How to Make Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip in a Slow Cooker

Prepping Your Ingredients for Best Results

If you want a creamy, flavorful, no-fail Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker recipe, it all starts with the right prep. The ingredients are simple, but each one plays a big role in creating the rich, tangy, cheesy flavor that makes this slow cooker dip the ultimate party appetizer.

Here’s everything you’ll need for the perfect slow cooker buffalo chicken dip:

• 4 cups shredded cooked chicken – Finely shredded for a smooth, scoopable texture
• 1 cup Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce – For that bold, spicy kick
• 2 blocks (8 oz.) cream cheese, cubed and softened – The creamy base that holds it all together
• ½ cup ranch dressing – Adds herby depth and balances the heat
• ½ cup sour cream – Adds a creamy texture and a tangy finish.
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided) – Because no buffalo dip is complete without lots of cheese

Chicken Tip:
To get that signature consistency in your Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker version, use finely shredded rotisserie chicken. Briefly warming it in the microwave makes shredding easier and helps it blend smoothly into the creamy base.

Cream Cheese Tip:
Cube the cream cheese while it’s still cold to keep things tidy, then let it soften at room temperature for 15–30 minutes. This helps it melt quickly and evenly once it hits the crockpot.

Looking for inspiration? Try slow-cooker-country-style-ribs for another dish that simmers to perfection.

Detailed Slow Cooker Instructions (Low vs. High Settings)

After prepping the ingredients, you’re only a few hours from enjoying the ultimate Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip made slow cooker style.

1. Add Everything to the Slow Cooker:
   Dump in the shredded chicken, Frank’s buffalo sauce, cream cheese, ranch dressing, sour cream, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. No need to layer—just make sure it’s all in there.
2. Set to LOW and Let It Cook (2–3 Hours):
   Cook the buffalo chicken dip on LOW to let the cheeses melt slowly and evenly. This prevents oil separation and gives the dip its signature creamy texture. Stir once or twice during cooking to help everything blend smoothly.
3. Stir Well After Cooking:
   Once the dip is hot and bubbly, give it a solid stir. You want the chicken, cheese, and sauces to come together into a cohesive, velvety dip.
4. [Optional] Add Cheddar Topping:
   Love it cheesy? Add the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar to the top and let it melt for an additional 15 minutes with the lid on.
5. Keep It Warm for Serving:
   Once the Frank’s buffalo chicken dip in the slow cooker is fully melted and creamy, switch the setting to “WARM” to keep it ready for serving. It’ll stay hot and scoopable throughout the party.

Serve this addictive dip with tortilla chips, celery sticks, baby carrots, or crackers—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Be sure to check out our spring-slow-cooker-recipes for more seasonal ideas to keep your slow cooker busy and your guests happy.

Expert Tips to Perfect the Texture and Flavor

Why Shredding Chicken Properly Makes a Big Difference

When making Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker style, how you prep your chicken can seriously affect the final outcome. The key to that iconic creamy, scoopable texture? Finely shredded chicken.

Here’s why it matters:

• Even Blending: The smaller the chicken shreds, the easier they mix into the dip, creating a uniform consistency.
• Creamier Texture: Coarse chunks of chicken can make the dip feel heavy or uneven. Finely shredded chicken melts seamlessly into the creamy base.
• Faster Cooking: Smaller pieces heat through more quickly and evenly in the slow cooker.

Quick Tip: Pop the chicken in the microwave for 30 seconds to make shredding easier. Warm meat shreds more easily and absorbs flavor better.

Tips to Avoid Oily or Separated Cheese in the Final Dip

A common issue with frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker is ending up with a greasy or separated layer of cheese. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with simple fixes that keep your dip rich and creamy, not oily.

Problem	Cause	Fix
Oily surface on dip	Cooking on high heat for too long	Use the LOW setting and stir occasionally
Cheese separating from mixture	Not stirring during cook time	Stir gently every 30–45 minutes while cooking
Clumpy cream cheese	Added cream cheese cold or in large chunks	Cut cream cheese into cubes and let it soften before using

Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker recipes work best when cooked low and slow. That gentle heat helps the cheese melt evenly and marry with the other ingredients, creating a smooth, luscious texture.

Also, be careful not to overcook—it’s not an 8-hour “set it and forget it” kind of dish. Two to three hours on LOW is ideal, just enough to heat everything through and melt the cheese fully.

Check out slow-cooker-candied-yams-recipes if you’re looking for another dish with creamy richness and crowd-pleasing appeal.

Serving and Presentation Ideas for Game Days & Parties

What to Serve With Buffalo Chicken Dip (Chips, Veggies & More)

When it comes to serving Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker style, pairing it with the right dippers can turn a great appetizer into the star of the party. This creamy, spicy, cheesy dip pairs beautifully with a variety of crunchy sides, adding texture and making it even more crave-worthy.

Here are top-rated options for scooping up your frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker:

Dipper	Why It’s Perfect for the Dip
Tortilla Chips	A classic—sturdy, salty, and ideal for the thick dip base
Celery Sticks	Cuts through the richness of the dip with a crisp, fresh crunch
Baby Carrots	Naturally sweet, crunchy, and a healthier contrast
Buttery Crackers	Soft, crumbly, and great for absorbing the buffalo flavor
Pita Chips	Holds up well and adds a light, toasted finish
Pretzel Thins	Salty with an extra crunch—ideal with cheesy dips
Toasted Baguette Slices	Great for serving as crostini-style mini buffalo toasts

Hosting a party? Create a buffalo dip bar with various dippers so guests can explore different textures. The heat and creaminess of the Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker recipe pair well with both veggies and carbs, so everyone walks away happy.

You can even spoon the dip onto slider buns for a twist: think mini buffalo chicken sandwiches. Add a slice of cheddar or a handful of green onions for an extra boost of flavor and a pop of color.

Garnishing With Green Onions or Blue Cheese for a Visual Boost

Serving Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker straight from the crockpot is perfectly acceptable, but taking a few extra steps to garnish it makes it look as good as it tastes. A well-garnished dip invites guests to dive in—and elevates it from “snack” to “showstopper.”

Here’s how to garnish your frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker:

• Chopped Green Onions: These add color, freshness, and a hint of sharpness that complements the creaminess.
• Blue Cheese Crumbles: Love wings? Then adding blue cheese gives you that traditional buffalo-wing twist.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Add an extra layer of sharpness. Let it melt on top right in the slow cooker before serving.
• Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Chives): Just a pinch gives the dip a finished, polished look.

Pro tip: If you’re transferring the dip to a serving bowl, sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top and broil for 3–4 minutes for a bubbling, golden top.

Always keep your Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker set to WARM during serving. This keeps the cheese melty and the consistency perfect for dipping—no one likes cold, thick dip halfway through the second quarter.

Don’t miss our bbq-pasta-salad-recipe for a flavorful side to complete your game day menu.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips

How Long Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip Slow Cooker Style Lasts in the Fridge

If you’ve made a big batch of Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker and are lucky enough to have leftovers, you’ll want to know how to store them right. This dip doesn’t just reheat well—it actually deepens in flavor after a day or two.

Once your frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker cools to room temperature, store it in an airtight container and place it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days if stored properly.

Tips for fridge storage:

• Let your Frank’s buffalo chicken dip cool fully before sealing to avoid condensation.
• Store in shallow containers for even cooling and easy reheating.
• Label your container with the prep date if planning ahead for events or parties.

Keeping the dip cold maintains the creamy texture and tangy buffalo flavor, especially if you plan to reheat it later.

Can You Freeze Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip Slow Cooker Style?

Yes, absolutely! Freezing your Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker leftovers is a smart way to always have a crave-worthy snack on hand. Whether you made too much or want to prep ahead, freezing works surprisingly well.

How to freeze it:

1. Cool the dip completely after cooking in the slow cooker.
2. Spoon into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty resealable bags.
3. Store flat (if using bags) to save space and allow quicker thawing.
4. Freeze for up to 3 months to preserve the best flavor and texture.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, move the frozen slow cooker buffalo chicken dip to the fridge and let it thaw overnight. Stir well after reheating to restore its creamy, cheesy goodness.

Note: While freezing may slightly alter the texture (due to dairy), the bold flavor of Frank’s buffalo sauce holds up beautifully, especially with a quick mix after reheating.

Reheating Without Losing That Creamy Buffalo Dip Texture

The beauty of Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker recipes is that they reheat incredibly well—if you use the right method. Here’s how to warm it up while keeping the cheesy, creamy consistency you love.

Reheating Method	Instructions	Best For
Microwave	Heat individual servings in 30-second bursts, stirring each time until hot	Fast, single-serve portions
Oven	Preheat to 350°F, bake covered for 20 minutes until hot and bubbly	Whole-batch reheating
Stovetop (Low Heat)	Reheat slowly, stirring often in a non-stick pan until smooth and hot	Texture control, small batches
Slow Cooker	Add back into the slow cooker and set to LOW or WARM for about an hour	Great for serving a crowd again

Want to prevent dryness when reheating your frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker? Stir in a tablespoon of milk, sour cream, or even a little more ranch to restore moisture and creaminess.

Check out recipes-for-beef-shanks-in-slow-cooker for more dishes that store and reheat with amazing flavor retention.

Frank’s Hot Sauce vs. Buffalo Wing Sauce: What Sets Them Apart?

A Breakdown of Hot Sauce vs. Buffalo Sauce for Slow Cooker Dips

When preparing the perfect Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker recipe, one of the most common questions is: should you use Frank’s Original Hot Sauce or Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce? Both are iconic, but the difference is more than just the label—it affects flavor, texture, and how your frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker turns out.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Type of Sauce	Main Ingredients	Flavor Profile
Frank’s Original Hot Sauce	Cayenne peppers, vinegar, garlic powder, salt	Thin, spicy, intense
Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce	Hot sauce + butter + seasonings	Milder, creamy, balanced heat

Frank’s Original Hot Sauce is pure fire—thin, vinegary, and great for adding kick. But if you want the creamy, savory, tangy flavor that defines a great Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker, then the Buffalo Wing Sauce is your go-to. It’s already blended with butter and spices, giving the dip that authentic “buffalo wing” taste without extra steps.

When to Use One Over the Other in Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip Slow Cooker

For the easiest and most flavorful Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker version, stick with Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce. It gives your dip a rich, velvety consistency and perfectly balanced spice—no need to add melted butter or extra seasoning. Just pour, mix, and slow cook.

Want more heat or full control over the flavor? Then go with Frank’s Original Hot Sauce and customize it:

• Add 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Mix in ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Splash in Worcestershire sauce for depth

This DIY approach works great if you like a spicier frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker, or if you’re trying to match the flavor of a favorite restaurant wing sauce.

Here’s a guide to help you decide:

Best For	Use This Sauce
Creamy, balanced buffalo dip	Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce
Spicy, custom flavor dip	Frank’s Original + butter mix

If your goal is a creamy, crowd-pleasing Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker dish that’s ready with minimal effort, Buffalo Wing Sauce is the winner every time.

Don’t miss our hawaiian-bbq-chicken-recipe for another saucy, flavor-packed favorite straight from the slow cooker.

Alternative Cooking Methods – Oven & Stove-Top Versions

Adapting Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip Without a Slow Cooker

While the classic Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker recipe is hands-down the easiest way to prepare this creamy, cheesy dip, sometimes you need a faster option—or maybe your slow cooker is already in use. Good news: this flavorful dip is just as tasty when made in the oven or on the stove-top.

No matter which method you choose, the result still delivers everything you love about Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker style: bold buffalo flavor, creamy texture, and cheesy goodness in every scoop.

Oven Method for a Baked and Bubbly Buffalo Chicken Dip

The oven is a great backup option when you can’t use your slow cooker. You still get all the flavor of your favorite Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker recipe—plus a beautiful golden, melted cheese top.

Oven Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix together in a bowl:
   • 4 cups shredded chicken
   • 1 cup Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce
   • 2 (8 oz) blocks softened cream cheese
   • ½ cup ranch dressing
   • ½ cup sour cream
   • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
3. Spread into a 9×13 baking dish.
4. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar on top.
5. Bake for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbling.
6. Broil for 3–4 minutes until the cheese topping is golden and bubbly.

This oven version still delivers the creamy texture found in the Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker method, with a slightly firmer finish—perfect if you’re scooping with toasted bread or serving at a sit-down meal.

Stove-Top Method for Quick and Creamy Results

Need your dip fast? The stove-top version of Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker is ideal for small batches and weeknight snacks when you’re short on time but still crave that buffalo kick.

Stove-Top Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a non-stick pot over medium heat.
2. Stir constantly until cheese is melted and everything is smooth.
3. Serve hot with chips, celery, or crackers.

Even without the slow cooker, this version keeps the signature creamy, spicy profile that makes this dip a fan favorite. Just remember to serve it quickly—it cools faster than the frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker version, which stays warm longer.

Which Method Is Right for You?

Each method has its pros, but the Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker remains the gold standard for hands-free cooking and long-lasting warmth.

Cooking Method	Why Use It	Perfect For
Slow Cooker	No-fuss prep, stays warm for hours, creamy & consistent	Parties, potlucks, game days
Oven-Baked	Bubbling cheese top, evenly cooked	Formal gatherings, crusty bread dippers
Stove-Top	Super quick, one-pot cleanup	Small batches, last-minute cravings

If you’re craving that classic dip texture and want it ready when guests arrive, nothing beats the Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker approach. But if time or tools are limited, these alternate methods deliver a delicious backup plan.

Check out slow-cook-in-rice-cooker to explore even more creative ways to slow cook without a crockpot.

Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping for game day, or simply craving something creamy and spicy, this Frank’s buffalo chicken dip slow cooker recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With just six ingredients and the convenience of the crockpot, it’s an effortless way to bring big flavor to any table.

From prep and storage to reheating and alternative cooking methods, this guide has everything you need to master the best buffalo chicken dip out there. So plug in that slow cooker, grab a bag of tortilla chips, and let the cheesy, tangy magic begin.

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Looking for your next comfort dish? Don’t miss our lentil-stew-recipe-slow-cooker—it’s hearty, healthy, and perfect for any season.

Common Questions Answered (FAQ Section)