Buffalo chicken dip is a creamy, spicy appetizer that has become a staple at many parties and gatherings But like any dish containing dairy and meat, it requires proper storage to keep it safe to eat So how long does buffalo chicken dip last in the fridge?
Overview of Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo chicken dip combines shredded cooked chicken with a creamy base of sour cream or cream cheese and ranch dressing. It gets its signature buffalo flavor from hot sauce, usually Frank’s RedHot. The dip is topped with shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese and baked until bubbly. It’s served warm, along with crackers, chips, or raw veggies for dipping.
The origins of buffalo chicken dip are linked to the creation of buffalo wings. The popular bar food was invented in Buffalo, New York in 1964. Buffalo chicken dip allows you to enjoy the classic flavors of buffalo wings in an easy, crowd-pleasing dip.
How Long Does Buffalo Chicken Dip Last in the Fridge?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, buffalo chicken dip will keep for 3 to 5 days. The exact shelf life depends on the freshness of the ingredients used. Here are some general guidelines for fridge storage:
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Homemade buffalo chicken dip will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days.
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Store-bought buffalo chicken dip can last up to 5 days, but always check the use-by date.
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Leftover buffalo chicken dip that has been served should be eaten within 3 days.
No matter what, buffalo chicken dip should be discarded if it has been in the fridge for longer than 5 days. The dip also should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Proper Storage for Maximum Freshness
To get the longest shelf life out of your buffalo chicken dip, follow these storage tips:
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Allow the dip to cool completely before refrigerating. Don’t put piping hot dip directly into the fridge.
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Store in an airtight container. Mason jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work best.
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Make sure your fridge temperature is 40°F or below.
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Label the container with the preparation or use-by date.
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Use clean utensils each time you scoop out dip to prevent bacteria transfer.
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Don’t double dip! Use a separate utensil for serving.
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Consume within 4 days and don’t reuse dip that’s been sitting out.
Identifying Spoiled Buffalo Chicken Dip
Although buffalo chicken dip can last 3-5 days in the fridge, it’s important to look for signs of spoilage before eating it. Throw out the dip if you notice:
- Sour smell
- Mold growth
- Change in texture or watery separation
- Discoloration
- Slimy consistency
When in doubt, remember the old adage – “When in doubt, throw it out!” Don’t risk eating spoiled buffalo chicken dip.
Can You Freeze Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of buffalo chicken dip even longer. To freeze:
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Let freshly made dip cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
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Smooth down the top and cover dip fully with plastic wrap before sealing lid.
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Label container with date and contents.
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Freeze for up to 3 months.
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Thaw overnight in fridge before re-heating gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
The texture may be slightly grainy after freezing, so stir well before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make buffalo chicken dip last longer?
Use the freshest ingredients possible and store it in an airtight container in the fridge immediately after preparing.
Can I eat buffalo chicken dip that’s been in the fridge for a week?
No, buffalo chicken dip should not be eaten if it has been refrigerated for longer than 5 days, even if it looks and smells normal. The risk of food poisoning increases over time.
Is it safe to reheat buffalo chicken dip?
Yes, you can safely reheat leftover buffalo chicken dip once. Just don’t let it sit at room temperature for long periods.
What happens if buffalo chicken dip sits out overnight?
If buffalo chicken dip is left at room temperature overnight, it is unsafe to eat. Toss it out!
Can I substitute different cheeses in buffalo chicken dip?
Sure, you can experiment with different melty cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack or Monterey jack. The cheese type doesn’t majorly impact safety.
How do I know if my buffalo chicken dip has gone bad?
Check for changes in smell, texture, and appearance. If the dip smells sour or shows any mold, err on the safe side and throw it away.
The Bottom Line
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, buffalo chicken dip will stay fresh and safe to eat for 3 to 5 days. Make sure to watch for signs of spoilage like off-smells, texture changes, or mold growth. If you see anything questionable, play it safe and discard the dip. With proper handling, you can enjoy your buffalo chicken dip all week long!
How long does Buffalo chicken dip last?
Buffalo chicken dip lasts for up to four days—if you’re lucky enough to end up with leftovers, that is! Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Warm leftover dip in the microwave or oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°.
Step 3: Bake the Buffalo chicken dip
Taste of Home
Bake, uncovered, until the cheese is melted, 20 to 25 minutes.
Serve the dip with baguette slices, celery ribs or tortilla chips.
Test Kitchen Tip: If you want an ooey-gooey top with very little browning, cover the dish with foil when baking.
- Make it in a slow cooker: Slow-cooker dips make great party appetizers. They travel well, and you can use the slow cooker to keep the dip warm during the party. To make slow-cooker Buffalo chicken dip, layer the ingredients in a 3-quart slow cooker. Cover it and cook on low for two to three hours, or until the dip is heated through.
- Skip the layers: We love this as a layered dip, but it tastes just as good if you mix everything together. Mix the cream cheese, chicken, wing sauce and salad dressing in a bowl. Then, transfer the dip to the baking dish. Sprinkle the cheese on top, and bake as directed.
- Adjust the spice level: If your guests like it spicy, add more wing sauce. You can also reduce the amount of sauce to temper the heat.
- Add bacon: The only thing better than Buffalo chicken dip is bacon Buffalo chicken dip! Folding in cooked, chopped bacon adds salty, smoky and savory vibes to this creamy dip.
- Use another cheese: Feel free to swap in your favorite cheese; cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack or pepper jack all work well here. Blue cheese crumbles are a great choice if you love blue cheese recipes.