Are you looking for the perfect appetizer to please your family and friends? Look no further than this Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip! This creamy, spicy dip is a fantastic choice for game nights, family gatherings, or just a cozy evening in. It combines the bold flavors of buffalo sauce with healthy ingredients, ensuring that everyone can enjoy it guilt-free. In this article, we’ll explore the ingredients and methods to create this mouthwatering dish while optimizing it for you with essential tips and tricks.
Ingredients
To whip up your own Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken breasts (rotisserie or homemade shredded chicken (about 2 lbs uncooked))
- 1/2 cup Franks Buffalo Wing hot sauce (extra depending on the level of spice you can always add more at the end!)
- 8 oz 1/3 less fat cream cheese (cut into cubes)
- 1 cup 1% milk fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded part skim mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning packet
- 1/2 cup diced green onions
- 1/2 cup diced celery
These ingredients together create a rich yet healthy dip that everyone will enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Crockpot Method
Prepare the Ingredients: Start by shredding your cooked chicken if you haven’t done so already. You can use a rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your chicken breasts in advance and shred them.
Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning packet. Use a hand mixer or a spoon to blend these ingredients until smooth.
Add in the Goodness: Fold in the shredded chicken, diced green onions, and diced celery into the cheese mixture.
Heat it Up: Transfer your mixture into a crockpot and pour the Franks Buffalo Wing hot sauce over the top. Mix it all together gently.
Cook: Set your crockpot to low for 2 to 3 hours, or until the dip is heated through and bubbly. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Oven Method
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Ingredients: As with the crockpot method, shred your cooked chicken and mix your cheese base in a large bowl.
Combine and Fold: Add the shredded chicken, green onions, and celery to the cheese mixture, stirring until combined.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread your dip into a baking dish and pour the hot sauce on top.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is heated through and the edges are slightly golden.
Storage
You can store leftovers of your Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows you to enjoy the dip again without needing to make it from scratch!
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave individual servings for 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring occasionally, until hot. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
Make Ahead
For those busy days, you can prepare the dip a day in advance. Just follow the preparation steps, store it in the refrigerator, and then bake or heat it when you’re ready to serve!
FAQ Section
Can I make this dip vegetarian?
While this recipe includes chicken, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using additional beans or veggies such as spinach or mushrooms to bulk up the dip.
What can I serve with Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip?
This dip pairs well with fresh veggie sticks (like carrots and cucumbers), whole-grain tortilla chips, or pita bread. Feel free to get creative with your serving options!
How long is Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip good for in the fridge?
If stored in an airtight container, this dip will keep for about 3 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to check for any off smells or changes in texture before consuming.
Is there a way to reduce the spice level of this dip?
Yes! If you prefer a milder dip, use less of the Franks Buffalo Wing sauce or mix in more Greek yogurt and cream cheese to balance the flavors.
Conclusion
In summary, this Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip is not just flavorful, but also a better-for-you option that will satisfy both health-conscious and indulgent eaters alike. With a blend of protein-rich ingredients and just the right amount of spice, it’s sure to be a hit at any family gathering. Try making your own, and watch it disappear in no time! For more delightful recipes and cooking tips, be sure to visit our website. Enjoy your healthy dining experience!
Print
Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip
A creamy and spicy dip perfect for game nights or family gatherings, combining buffalo sauce with healthy ingredients for a guilt-free treat.
- Total Time: 165 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Franks Buffalo Wing hot sauce
- 8 oz 1/3 less fat cream cheese
- 1 cup 1% milk fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded part skim mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning packet
- 1/2 cup diced green onions
- 1/2 cup diced celery
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Shred the cooked chicken if not done already.
- Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and ranch seasoning until smooth.
- Add in the Goodness: Fold in the shredded chicken, diced green onions, and celery.
- Heat it Up: Transfer mixture to a crockpot and pour buffalo sauce on top. Mix gently.
- Cook: Set the crockpot to low for 2-3 hours until heated through and bubbly, stirring occasionally.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine and Fold: In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, green onions, and celery into the cheese mixture, stirring until combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the dip into a baking dish and pour the hot sauce on top.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through and edges are slightly golden.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 150 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking, Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 60mg