Jazzed up with our 814 sauce for Labor Day.
Get ready to indulge in a delicious and healthier twist on the classic Buffalo Chicken Dip! This recipe features our 814 Maple Buffalo Sauce for that perfect kick, combined with creamy, cheesy goodness. Great for any gathering, game day, or just because!
Ingredients:
8 oz 814 Sauce
8 oz ranch dressing
2 cups white cheddar cheese, shredded
1 block (8 oz) light cream cheese, softened
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (about 2-3 chicken breasts)
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 medium onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked onion and garlic with the shredded chicken, 814 Maple Buffalo Sauce, ranch dressing, white cheddar cheese, and cream cheese. Mix well until everything is fully combined and the cream cheese is smoothly incorporated.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a ceramic casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with fresh veggies, whole-grain crackers, or even pita chips for a healthier take.
Extra Pointers for the Ultimate Buffalo Chicken Dip
Want to elevate your Buffalo Chicken Dip game? Here are some tips to make it even more special and delicious!
1. Make It in a Cast Iron Skillet
Why Cast Iron?: Using a cast iron skillet adds a wonderful depth of flavor and helps achieve those perfectly crispy, golden edges. Plus, it retains heat exceptionally well, keeping your dip hot and melty for longer.
One-Pan Wonder: Cook the onions and garlic directly in the skillet, then mix in the remaining ingredients right in the pan. No need to transfer to another dish – you can pop the skillet directly into the oven.
Preheat the Skillet: Preheat your cast iron skillet in the oven as it heats up to 350°F. This way, the dip will start cooking the moment it hits the pan, giving it an even crust and a more intense flavor.
2. Enhance the Flavor
Add a Crispy Topping: For a bit of crunch, top the dip with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and a little bit of olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle it over the top before baking for a golden, crispy crust.
Mix in Fresh Herbs: Add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives to the dip before baking or as a garnish on top. They’ll add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Drizzle for Extra Flavor: After baking, drizzle some extra 814 Maple Buffalo Sauce or a light ranch drizzle over the top for added flavor and presentation.
Cheese Variations: While white cheddar is delicious, consider mixing in or substituting with mozzarella or gouda for an extra melty texture and richer flavor profile.
3. Boost the Protein and Fiber
Add Some Veggies: Dice up some bell peppers, jalapeños, or even corn and mix them in with the chicken for added texture, color, and nutritional value. Or swap the chicken for cauliflower roasted in the oven first.
Include Beans: Adding a can of drained and rinsed white beans or black beans can boost fiber and add a creamy texture to the dip.
4. Turn It Into a Meal
Buffalo Chicken Flatbread or Pizza: Spread the dip over a flatbread or pizza dough, sprinkle with extra cheese, and bake for an incredible buffalo chicken pizza.
Stuffed Peppers: Spoon the dip into halved bell peppers and bake them until tender for a delicious and hearty meal option.
Enjoy
This Buffalo Chicken Dip, packed with the bold flavors of 814 Sauce and seasoned perfectly with onions and garlic, will surely be a crowd-pleaser!
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