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Lighter Buffalo Chicken Dip with Cream Cheese & Ranch

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A lighter version of the classic buffalo chicken dip that uses Greek yogurt and Neufchatel cheese to cut calories without sacrificing flavor. This creamy, spicy, and cheesy dip comes together in under 30 minutes and is perfect for game day, potlucks, or weeknight cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 10 oz) cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup (240g) plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
  • 8 oz (227g) Neufchatel cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) buffalo-style hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
  • 1 cup (120g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
  • 3–4 stalks green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Celery sticks and carrot sticks (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure Neufchatel cheese is softened to room temperature.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened Neufchatel cheese and Greek yogurt. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  3. Slowly add the buffalo hot sauce while mixing on low speed to prevent splattering. Add the ranch seasoning mix and mix until evenly combined. The mixture should turn a pale orange color.
  4. Fold in the shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese using a spatula until evenly distributed.
  5. Transfer the mixture to an 8×8 inch baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until hot and bubbly around the edges and the top is golden. For a browner top, broil for the last 2 minutes, watching carefully.
  7. Let the dip rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or whole-grain crackers.

Notes

For best texture, ensure Neufchatel cheese is fully softened to room temperature. Drain chicken well to avoid watery dip. Taste hot sauce before adding full amount, as brands vary in heat. Dip can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking (add 5-10 minutes to baking time). Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: buffalo chicken dip, lighter buffalo dip, healthy buffalo dip, game day dip, creamy buffalo dip, Greek yogurt dip, low carb appetizer

Find it online: https://lenatable.com/lighter-buffalo-chicken-dip-with-cream-cheese-and-ranch/