BBQ chicken dip
BBQ chicken dip is a crowd-pleasing favorite that combines tender, shredded chicken with tangy barbecue sauce and creamy cheese. It’s perfect for parties, game days, or any time you want…
Tip: save now, cook later.BBQ chicken dip is a crowd-pleasing favorite that combines tender, shredded chicken with tangy barbecue sauce and creamy cheese. It’s perfect for parties, game days, or any time you want a tasty snack that feels like a warm hug on a chip. The smoky flavor of the BBQ sauce mixed with melted cheese creates a rich and satisfying dip that’s easy to share.
I love making this dip because it’s super simple to whip up and always disappears fast once it hits the table. I usually use a good bottled barbecue sauce, but you can make your own if you want to get fancy. Adding a little cream cheese or ranch dressing makes it extra creamy and smooth, which balances the bold BBQ flavor just right.
My favorite way to serve BBQ chicken dip is with sturdy tortilla chips or even fresh-cut veggies like celery and carrots for a little crunch. It’s one of those dishes that brings people together, and I’ve caught myself sneaking spoonfuls even before others dig in! It’s the perfect mix of cheesy, smoky, and a little sweet, and I bet it’ll quickly become a go-to in your snack rotation too.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver with great flavor, but cooked shredded chicken breast or thighs work great too. Leftover chicken is perfect for this dip.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose a sauce you love! Sweet, smoky, or spicy—all can change the flavor. If you don’t have BBQ sauce, a mix of ketchup and a splash of vinegar can work as a quick substitute.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and thickness. If you want a lighter dip, try using Greek yogurt instead, but the texture won’t be quite as rich.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic here for its sharpness and meltiness. Mozzarella adds stretchiness but is optional. Feel free to try smoked cheese for extra flavor.
Ranch Dressing: This is optional but adds a cool, creamy balance. You can swap it with sour cream or omit it if you want the BBQ flavor to shine more.
How Do I Get the Dip Creamy and Well Blended?
Mixing the ingredients thoroughly ensures every bite is flavorful and creamy. Here’s how I do it:
- Soften the cream cheese before mixing; it blends easier without lumps.
- Use a fork or a hand mixer if you want extra smoothness.
- Mix the shredded chicken well with the sauce and cream cheese to spread the flavor evenly.
- After baking, let the dip rest for 5 minutes. It firms up slightly but stays creamy for easy scooping.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Casserole dish or oven-safe baking dish – perfect for baking and serving the dip directly.
- Mixing bowl – to mix all your ingredients evenly without a mess.
- Spoon or spatula – easy for stirring and spreading the dip in the dish.
- Oven mitts – to safely handle the hot dish when removing it from the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for pulled pork or cooked ground beef for a different BBQ twist.
- Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat to the dip.
- Include corn or black beans for extra texture and a Southwestern touch.
- Top with crispy bacon bits or chopped green chilies for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Dip?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup ranch dressing (optional, adds creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
Getting this dip ready takes about 10 minutes to mix and assemble, plus 20-25 minutes baking time. So, plan for around 30-35 minutes total from start to finish. Perfect for a quick party snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Mix:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, softened cream cheese, ranch dressing (if using), and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is combined well and creamy.
2. Assemble the Dip:
Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a casserole or oven-safe dish. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and mozzarella on top for a melty, cheesy finish.
3. Bake and Serve:
Bake the dip for 20 to 25 minutes, until it’s bubbly and the cheese on top has melted and turned slightly golden. Let it cool a few minutes, then sprinkle with sliced green onions. Serve warm with plenty of tortilla chips for dipping and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw and cook the chicken before shredding it. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Make BBQ Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip mixture and place it in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heat.
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Dressing?
If you don’t have ranch, you can substitute with sour cream or omit it altogether for a more straightforward BBQ flavor. Greek yogurt is another creamy alternative that works well.
