Description
A smoky, spicy, and creamy buffalo chicken dip made by grilling the chicken and garlic for added depth of flavor. This game-day appetizer is rich, tangy, and perfect for crowds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.2 lbs)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large scallions, sliced
- 8 oz full-fat block cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup full-fat sour cream
- ½ cup buffalo sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup blue cheese dressing
- Cooking oil for brushing chicken
- Wood chips (hickory or applewood) for smoking
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F/200°C). If using charcoal, create a two-zone fire. Soak wood chips for 30 minutes if using.
- Pat chicken breasts dry and brush lightly with oil. Place on the hot side of the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and char marks appear.
- About 2 minutes before chicken is done, place minced garlic and scallion whites directly on the grill grate. Cook until caramelized but not burnt. Remove chicken and grilled aromatics to a plate.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then shred into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Chop the grilled garlic and scallions and add them to the shredded chicken.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, buffalo sauce, and blue cheese dressing. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Add the shredded chicken and shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Mix until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a small cast iron skillet or baking dish. Place on the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat) with the lid closed.
- Warm through for 8-10 minutes, stirring once halfway, until cheese is melted and dip is hot and bubbly.
- Remove from grill, top with extra cheddar and reserved green scallion parts. Serve immediately with crusty bread, pretzels, or celery sticks.
Notes
Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps. Do not overcook chicken to 175°F; 165°F is sufficient as it will rest. If the dip becomes too thick while keeping warm, add a splash of milk or chicken broth. This dip does not freeze well due to dairy separation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Protein: 18
Keywords: buffalo chicken dip, game day recipe, grilled appetizer, smoky dip, super bowl snacks, creamy dip, spicy dip, outdoor cooking