Jump to Recipe Print Recipe“Can I get a side of spicy?” my friend playfully asked as I poured the last of the buffalo sauce into my mixing bowl. While we’ve all enjoyed a classic buffalo chicken dip before, my 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip takes this flavor explosion to a whole new level. It’s a vibrant combination of creamy refried beans, savory bacon, and those spicy buffalo notes, perfected in seven delightful layers. Not only is this dip an absolute showstopper, but it’s also a breeze to whip up, making it ideal for your next gathering, be it a summer barbecue or a cozy game night. Plus, it’s gluten-free-friendly if you make a simple switch with the ranch dressing. So, are you ready to elevate your party appetizer game and delight your taste buds? Let’s dive into this delicious dip! Why is this dip a must-try? Type of Crowd-Pleaser: This 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip is sure to impress at any gathering, from tailgates to holiday parties. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious dip ready in no time. Layered Flavor Adventure: Each layer brings its own unique taste and texture, creating a delightful combination that’s rich and satisfying. Customizable Options: You can easily swap ingredients like cheese or protein for a version that suits your preferences. Gluten-Free Friendly: A quick change in ranch dressing opens this delicious dish to a wider audience, ensuring no one misses out on the fun! Pair it with some Huli Huli Chicken for a complete feast that will leave everyone raving! 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip Ingredients For the Base Layer • Bacon – Provides savory crunch and flavor; use turkey bacon for a lighter option. • Refried Beans – Offers a creamy base, contributing great texture; vegetarian refried beans can substitute here. For the Chicken Mixture • Buffalo Hot Sauce – Adds the signature spicy kick to the dip; adjust quantity for desired heat level. • Cream Cheese – Creates a rich and creamy consistency; use full-fat for optimal creaminess. • Ranch Dressing – Enhances flavor with added creaminess; swap with homemade ranch for a fresh twist. • Dry Ranch Seasoning – Amplifies the ranch flavor; can be replaced with taco seasoning for a different twist. • Rotisserie Chicken Breast – Provides protein and savory flavor; precooked chicken or canned shredded chicken are suitable alternatives. For the Toppings • Pepperjack Cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a spicy touch; substitute with cheddar for a milder flavor. • Corn – Adds sweetness and texture; use canned or fresh corn kernels, whichever is convenient. • Blue Cheese Crumbles – Offers a tangy flavor that complements the buffalo sauce; feta cheese can be a milder substitute. • Green Onions – Introduces a fresh, slightly sharp finish; shallots can be used as a less pungent alternative. For Serving • Tortilla Chips, Celery, and Carrots – Perfect for serving; these can be swapped with crackers or pita chips. This 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip is not just tasty but also a colorful centerpiece for your table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is essential for ensuring that the layers of your 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip heat evenly and the cheese melts beautifully. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients so everything is within reach during your cooking process. Step 2: Cook the Bacon In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it turns crispy and golden brown, which should take about 8-10 minutes. As the bacon crisps, its savory aroma will fill your kitchen, fueling your excitement for this delicious dip. Once done, transfer the crispy bacon to paper towels to drain any excess grease and set aside for later. Step 3: Prepare the First Layer In a mixing bowl, combine the refried beans with ¼ cup of buffalo sauce, stirring until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, creating the first colorful layer of your 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip. This layer will form a flavorful base, so be sure to reach the edges for even seasoning. Step 4: Blend the Creamy Layer Next, in a separate bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and dry ranch seasoning until well combined and creamy. Layer this rich, flavorful mixture over the refried beans in your baking dish, smoothing it with a spatula. The creamy layer is vital for balancing the spicy notes of the buffalo sauce, enhancing the dip’s overall taste. Step 5: Add the Chicken Layer In a bowl, shred the rotisserie chicken and mix it with the remaining buffalo sauce, ensuring it’s well coated. Spread this chicken mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer. Sprinkle the top with shredded pepperjack cheese for an extra kick. This step builds the heartiness of the dip, making it a satisfying party favorite. Step 6: Bake the Dip Place the assembled dip in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until everything is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it; the golden cheese will be a visual cue that your 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip is ready to impress! Step 7: Add the Final Touches Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Top your dip with the corn, blue cheese crumbles, and sliced green onions for a fresh crunch and burst of flavor. These toppings create a vibrant finish, adding both taste and visual appeal to your dip. Step 8: Serve with Love Serve your warm 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip with a platter of tortilla chips, celery sticks, and carrot sticks. This colorful arrangement makes for a great presentation, allowing your guests to dive into this delectable, creamy creation with ease. Enjoy the compliments as it quickly disappears! Make Ahead Options These 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare layers, like the refried beans and buffalo chicken mixture, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply spread the refried beans in your baking dish, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. On the day you plan to serve, continue by layering the cream cheese mixture and chicken, then bake as directed. To maintain the quality of your dip, make sure the ingredients are well-sealed in the refrigerator. This way, you can save time and still achieve that delicious, fresh taste when you’re ready to impress your guests! Expert Tips for 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip • Oven-Safe Dish: Ensure you’re using a proper oven-safe dish, ideally a 9×13 inch size, to hold all those delicious layers without spilling. • Soften Cream Cheese: For a smooth and creamy layer, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. It makes blending easier! • Layer Carefully: Avoid over-mixing your layers; spread each layer gently to keep the distinct textures. This way, each bite will showcase the fantastic flavor of the 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip. • Spice Control: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce according to your heat preference. Not everyone enjoys high spice levels, so you can always start with less and add more. • Topping Variations: Get creative with your toppings! You can substitute blue cheese with feta for a milder taste or switch up the corn for diced olives for an exciting twist. How to Store and Freeze 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Freezer: You can freeze this dip for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thawing: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, reheat in the oven until bubbly and hot, ensuring all layers are heated evenly. Serving: For the best taste and texture, serve the dip warm. Enjoy with your favorite dippers right after reheating to keep the layers distinct and delicious! 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip Variations Feel free to make this delightful dip your own with these fun twists and swaps that will tantalize your taste buds! Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream or dairy-free cream cheese for a lactose-free option. This swap ensures everyone can indulge without missing out on the creamy goodness of the dip. Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken layer for an extra layer of heat. This addition will surely satisfy those craving a fiery twist in every bite, making it unforgettable. Vegetarian Delight: Replace the rotisserie chicken with quinoa or chickpeas seasoned with buffalo sauce for a hearty vegetarian option. This variation maintains the dip’s appealing texture and flavor while opening it up to plant-based eaters! Mild Alternative: Swap out the pepperjack cheese for a mild mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a creamier, less spicy dip. This option is perfect for guests who might shy away from the heat but still want to enjoy a delicious layered dip. Savory Greens: Incorporate some chopped spinach or kale into the cream cheese layer for an added health boost. Not only will it enhance the flavor, but it will also give your dip a gorgeous pop of green! Crunchy Twist: Replace corn with crispy crushed tortilla chips mixed into the layers for an added crunch. This unexpected texture can take your 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip to new heights, making it an absolute favorite! Flavor Fusion: Try mixing in some ranch dressing seasoning into the cream cheese layer, or use taco seasoning instead! This twist provides a delightful crossover of flavors, making every scoop an exciting surprise. For those seeking other entertaining recipes, consider pairing this dip with Grilled Buffalo Chicken or the light and refreshing Hawaiian Chicken Salad for a complete feast that tantalizes the senses! What to Serve with 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip As you prepare to wow your guests with this flavorful dip, consider rounding out the feast with delightful pairings that will elevate your gathering to new heights. Crunchy Tortilla Chips: The perfect vehicle for your dip, offering a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy layers beautifully. Fresh Celery and Carrots: These veggies provide a refreshing contrast; their crispness balances the rich flavors of the dip and brings a burst of freshness. Zesty Coleslaw: A creamy, tangy salad pairs well, cutting through the spice of the dip and adding a crunchy texture to your spread. Savory Mini Sliders: Bite-sized burgers or pulled chicken sliders make for a heartier addition, perfect for mingling as guests enjoy their dip! Warm Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and slightly chewy, these breadsticks are wonderful for scooping up the dip, bringing yet another layer of indulgence to your meal. Refreshing Iced Tea: A chilled, sweetened iced tea can be the perfect antidote to the spice of the buffalo dip, offering a cooling, sweet note. Creamy Guacamole: Rich and delicious, guacamole adds a creamy texture that echoes the flavors of the dip while setting off its spice with its smoothness. Chocolate Brownies: End the meal on a sweet note with fudgy brownies, providing a rich contrast after the savory, spiced goodness of the dip. 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe FAQs What type of bacon should I use? You can use regular bacon for a rich flavor, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey bacon works beautifully too. Just make sure it’s crispy for that perfect crunch in your dip! How long can I store leftover 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip? Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until it’s warm and the cheese is melty. Can I freeze 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip? Yes, you can! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to devour it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through. I’m concerned about spice levels; how can I adjust the heat? Very understandable! Start by adding just a small amount of buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture. You can always increase the spice by adding more sauce to taste. This way, you’ll achieve that perfect heat level for your palate. Could this recipe be modified for dietary restrictions? Definitely! To make it gluten-free, simply substitute ranch dressing with a gluten-free alternative. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, use roasted veggies or chickpeas instead of chicken, and be sure to check all ingredient labels for hidden gluten. What are some good serving alternatives besides tortilla chips? The more the merrier! Aside from tortilla chips, you can serve this dip with fresh veggie sticks like celery and carrots, or even with crackers or pita chips for a fun twist. Enjoying it with an array of dippers makes for a colorful and inviting presentation! 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip That Will Wow Your Guests This 7-Layer Buffalo Chicken Dip is a vibrant appetizer packed with creamy refried beans, savory bacon, and spicy buffalo flavors. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 8 servingsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base Layer5 slices Bacon Use turkey bacon for a lighter option.1 can Refried Beans Vegetarian refried beans can substitute here.For the Chicken Mixture1/2 cup Buffalo Hot Sauce Adjust quantity for desired heat level.8 oz Cream Cheese Use full-fat for optimal creaminess.1/2 cup Ranch Dressing Swap with homemade ranch for a fresh twist.1 packet Dry Ranch Seasoning Can be replaced with taco seasoning for a different twist.2 cups Rotisserie Chicken Breast Precooked chicken or canned shredded chicken are suitable alternatives.For the Toppings1 cup Pepperjack Cheese Substitute with cheddar for a milder flavor.1 cup Corn Use canned or fresh corn kernels.1/2 cup Blue Cheese Crumbles Feta cheese can be a milder substitute.1/4 cup Green Onions Shallots can be used as a less pungent alternative.For Serving1 bag Tortilla Chips These can be swapped with crackers or pita chips.1 bunch Celery1 bunch Carrots Equipment 9x13-inch baking dishmixing bowlSkillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your ingredients.In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels and set aside.Combine refried beans with 1/4 cup of buffalo sauce in a bowl. Spread this mixture in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.Mix cream cheese, ranch dressing, and dry ranch seasoning until smooth. Layer this over the refried beans.Shred the rotisserie chicken and mix with the remaining buffalo sauce. Spread over the cream cheese layer and top with shredded pepperjack cheese.Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, until heated through and cheese is melted.Remove from oven and cool for a few minutes. Top with corn, blue cheese crumbles, and green onions.Serve warm with tortilla chips, celery sticks, and carrot sticks. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 15gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing, and adjust the buffalo sauce for desired spice level. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
