BBQ chicken dip
BBQ chicken dip is a crowd-pleasing favorite that's creamy, cheesy, and packed full of smoky barbecue flavors. It’s made with tender shredded chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, cream cheese, and plenty…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
BBQ chicken dip is a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed full of smoky barbecue flavors. It’s made with tender shredded chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, cream cheese, and plenty of melted cheese to make every bite rich and comforting. The perfect mix of savory and a little bit sweet, this dip is great for sharing at parties or casual get-togethers.
I love making this dip whenever friends come over because it’s so easy to put together but always disappears quickly. One of my favorite tricks is to use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time, and adding a bit of crunchy chopped onions on top just before serving adds a nice texture contrast that everyone asks for again and again.
For serving, I usually go with sturdy chips or sliced veggies to scoop it up, but it’s just as great spread on a sandwich or even spooned onto baked potatoes. This BBQ chicken dip brings people together, making any hangout feel cozy and delicious without any fuss. It’s one of those recipes that quickly becomes a staple in my kitchen for easy entertaining.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a real time-saver and adds great flavor. If you don’t have any, cooked chicken breast or thighs work fine. For a veggie version, try shredded jackfruit with BBQ sauce.
Cream Cheese: This gives the dip its creamy texture. You can swap it for Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter option, but the dip won’t be as thick.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce — sweet, smoky, or spicy. If you want less sugar, try a low-sugar or homemade sauce. Adjust this to your taste.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella make a great combo for meltiness and flavor. Feel free to use Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack for a little heat.
Ranch Dressing or Mayonnaise: Ranch adds a nice tang, but mayo works if you prefer a milder flavor. For a dairy-free swap, use vegan mayo.
Green Onions: They bring fresh crunch and a bit of bite at the end. If you don’t have green onions, chopped chives or mild red onion work well.
How Do You Make This Dip Creamy and Well-Mixed?
Getting the creamy base just right is key to BBQ chicken dip. Here’s how I do it:
- Soften the cream cheese fully before mixing. Leaving it out to reach room temperature helps it blend smoothly.
- Mix the cream cheese with BBQ sauce and ranch dressing (or mayo) first, until smooth. This avoids lumps later on.
- Add the shredded chicken and cheese gradually, folding gently to keep the texture hearty but even.
- Spread the dip evenly in the baking dish for uniform melting and crispy edges.
These simple steps help you get a creamy, cheesy dip that’s perfect for scooping with chips every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – big enough to combine all the ingredients easily without spilling.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for mixing the dip smoothly and scraping the sides.
- Oven-safe baking dish or cast-iron skillet – helps the dip bake evenly and look great served right from the oven.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your cheese, sauce, and other ingredients just right.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping green onions or any add-ins.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for pulled pork or cooked sausage for a different BBQ twist that’s just as tasty.
- Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat if you like a spicy kick.
- Mix in corn kernels or black beans to add some sweetness and texture.
- Top with crispy bacon pieces or extra green onions before serving for a nice crunch and flavor boost.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing or mayonnaise
- 2 green onions, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- Tortilla chips or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 20-25 minutes to bake, for a total time of around 30-35 minutes. It’s quick to make and perfect for a last-minute appetizer or snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Mixing Bowl:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, barbecue sauce, and ranch dressing or mayonnaise. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Mix in Chicken and Cheese:
Add the shredded chicken along with 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese, 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese, and the chopped green onions to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly so it is evenly combined.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Transfer the dip mixture into a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling and the cheese on top is melted and golden.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Carefully remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the reserved chopped green onions over the top for a fresh finish. Serve the warm BBQ chicken dip with tortilla chips, crackers, or your favorite dippers for scooping.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it is fully thawed before shredding. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing. Pat the chicken dry to avoid extra moisture in the dip.
Can I Make BBQ Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip mixture and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed since the dip will be cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Transfer leftover dip to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals for even heating.
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Dressing?
If you don’t have ranch dressing, mayonnaise is a great substitute that keeps the dip creamy. You can also try sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and lighter texture.