Yes, you can absolutely heat up store bought buffalo chicken dip! Pre-made buffalo chicken dip is a convenient option that can be easily warmed up and served for a quick and delicious appetizer or snack. While homemade buffalo chicken dip often tastes best when freshly made, heating up the store-bought version still yields good results.
Should you heat store bought buffalo chicken dip?
Heating up store bought buffalo chicken dip is recommended to bring out the best flavors and texture. Cold or room temperature buffalo chicken dip tends to be thick and stiff. Heating it up makes the dip more smooth, creamy, and easier to dip into. The flavors also become more pronounced and cohesive when heated. So you’ll get the full experience of spicy, tangy, creamy, and savory flavors by warming up refrigerated buffalo chicken dip before serving.
Can you eat buffalo chicken dip cold?
While buffalo chicken dip can technically be eaten straight from the container without heating, it is not ideal. The flavors will be muted and the texture dense and hard to scoop. The buffalo chicken dip will also feel heavy in your mouth versus smooth and creamy when properly heated. So for the proper texture and strongest flavors, take the extra couple minutes to heat up refrigerated buffalo chicken dip before serving.
How to heat up buffalo chicken dip
There are a few easy methods for heating up store bought buffalo chicken dip:
- Microwave: This is the quickest and easiest option. Transfer the dip to a microwave-safe bowl or dish. Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through. The timing will depend on the amount of dip and your microwave wattage. Start with 2-3 minutes for a whole container.
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Transfer dip to a casserole or oven-safe dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes if starting refrigerated or 10-15 minutes if starting at room temperature. Stir halfway through. The dip is ready when hot and bubbly.
- Stovetop: Transfer dip to a saucepan over medium-low heat. Gently warm while stirring regularly until heated through, 5-10 minutes. Use a rubber spatula to reach edges and bottom of pan.
- Crockpot: Transfer dip to a crockpot and cook on Low setting for 1-2 hours, until heated through and bubbly. Stir occasionally. The longer cooking time allows flavors to meld.
No matter which heating method you use, aim to get the buffalo chicken dip hot throughout while avoiding scorching the bottom. Stirring regularly helps distribute heat evenly. Bring it just to a simmer then remove from heat source. Serve dip warm right away for best taste and texture.
How long does buffalo chicken dip last refrigerated?
Properly stored, buffalo chicken dip can last 5-7 days refrigerated. Always check the manufacturer’s printed expiration date, as some prepared versions may have a shorter shelf life. Store unused buffalo chicken dip in an airtight container. Make sure to smooth the top and firmly press on the lid to prevent air exposure. Use within several days of opening for freshest quality.
If dip has been refrigerated longer than 5-7 days after opening, inspect carefully before using. Look for signs of spoilage like mold growth, off odors, or a change in consistency. If the dip has exceeded the expiration date or appears at all spoiled, it is safest to discard.
Can you freeze buffalo chicken dip?
Yes, freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of buffalo chicken dip. Both homemade and store bought versions freeze well for 2-3 months. Allow dip to cool completely first, then transfer to an airtight freezer container or zip-top bag. Flatten to an even layer and seal tightly with no air bubbles before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the oven or microwave.
Freezing prevents bacterial growth that could spoil the dip. The texture may become a bit thinner after thawing but remains delicious. Let the dip come completely to room temperature before serving for best consistency.
Tips for the best heated buffalo chicken dip
Follow these tips for optimally heated store bought or homemade buffalo chicken dip:
- Stir regularly while heating to distribute flavors and texture evenly.
- Bring to a simmer on the stovetop then immediately remove from heat.
- Heat just until hot, not boiling, to avoid separation or scorching.
- Transfer to a serving dish or fondue pot to keep warm for serving.
- Add a splash of milk or cream if the dip seems too thick after heating.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, blue cheese crumbles, shredded cheese, etc.
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips, crackers, celery, or raw veggies for dipping.
Ingredients to make buffalo chicken dip from scratch
To make homemade buffalo chicken dip, you’ll need:
- Chicken – cooked, shredded or chopped (rotisserie chicken works great)
- Buffalo wing sauce
- Cream cheese
- Ranch dressing
- Blue cheese or other cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack (optional)
- Milk or cream
- Green onions, chopped
Sauté the chicken with the buffalo sauce. Combine with cream cheese, ranch dressing, and any additional cheese. Thin out as needed with milk or cream. Top with green onions. Adjust any seasonings to taste.
Nutrition information
The nutrition facts for buffalo chicken dip depend on the exact recipe and ingredients used. But in general, a 2 tablespoon serving provides approximately:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 70 |
| Total Fat | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5g |
| Sodium | 210mg |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Protein | 4g |
Buffalo chicken dip is high in calories, fat, and sodium. It’s considered an indulgent appetizer best enjoyed in moderation. Opt for homemade using reduced fat and sodium ingredients when possible.
Common questions about buffalo chicken dip
What kind of buffalo sauce do you use?
Most original, medium, or hot buffalo wing sauces work well. Choose your heat level based on preference. Franks RedHot is a popular brand. Make sure to use real buffalo sauce and not just hot sauce.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, canned chicken breast or tuna can substitute for cooked chicken in buffalo chicken dip. Drain and rinse before using. The flavor and texture may be slightly different than fresh chicken.
Can I add blue cheese?
Absolutely! Crumbled blue cheese gives this dip an extra punch of flavor. Opt for 1/4 to 1/2 cup of blue cheese. Garnish with more for serving if desired.
What dippers go with buffalo chicken dip?
Tortilla chips, crackers, raw vegetables, and celery sticks all pair excellently. Bread cubes, pretzel crisps, and potato chips also work. Provide a variety of dippers and let guests build their perfect bite.
Is buffalo chicken dip gluten free?
Buffalo chicken dip can easily be made gluten free by using gluten free hot sauce, cream cheese, ranch dressing, and cooking the chicken separately. Just be sure to check all labels. Corn tortilla chips make the perfect gluten free dipper.
Conclusion
Heating up refrigerated buffalo chicken dip truly takes it to the next level in terms of flavor and enjoyment. The spicy, tangy, and creamy qualities become more pronounced with a quick warm up in the microwave, oven, crockpot, or on the stovetop. Just be careful not to overheat or scorch the bottom. Allow the dip to come to room temperature before serving with crispy dippers like tortilla chips or fresh cut veggies. Leftover buffalo chicken dip stores well refrigerated for 5-7 days and can also be frozen. Making this indulgent appetizer dip from scratch is easy too using just a few ingredients. Enjoy this crowd-pleasing snack warmer or cooler.