Buffalo chicken dip is having a moment. This irresistibly creamy, spicy appetizer has developed a cult-like following, with good reason The combination of shredded chicken, hot sauce, and melted cheese blender together into the ultimate party pleaser But with so many versions out there, where can you find the best buffalo chicken dip? I embarked on a cheesy quest to discover which restaurants serve up the tastiest rendition of this snackable classic.
A Brief History of Buffalo Chicken Dip
While the origins are murky, buffalo chicken dip is believed to have emerged sometime in the 1990s. It started gaining widespread popularity in the early 2000s as a staple on sports bar menus and potluck tables. The dish brings together the spicy, vinegar-based heat of traditional buffalo chicken wings with the creamy comfort of spinach artichoke dip. It’s a marriage made in appetizer heaven.
These days, you can find buffalo chicken dip gracing the menus of chain restaurants, neighborhood bars, and home kitchens. But not all dips are created equal. I set out to identify which restaurants excel at preparing this highly craveable snack. Along the way, I evaluated key criteria like flavor balance, spice level, creaminess, and overall enjoyment. Ready your chips – here’s where to find transcendent buffalo chicken dip.
Buffalo Wild Wings – The OG Buff Dip Experience
As a pioneer in all things buffalo chicken, it’s only fitting that Buffalo Wild Wings came out as my top pick for exceptional buffalo chicken dip. Their version features just the right amount of heat, tang, and creaminess. Shredded chicken gets tossed in Buffalo Wild Wings’ signature spicy sauce, then blended with cool creamy cheese, sour cream, and blue cheese. This combination forms a dip with layered flavors – the heat and vinegar of the sauce, the rich creaminess of the cheese, and the pungent bite of blue cheese.
With locations across the country, Buffalo Wild Wings provides convenient access to an authentic buff dip experience. You can customize your spice level too, with options ranging from “Desert Heat” to “Blazin.” While the dip is a menu staple, I suggest visiting during happy hour when it’s offered at a discount – because once you start dipping, it’s hard to stop.
Barret’s Grillhouse – Elevated & Delicious
For a gourmet twist on classic buff dip, head to Barret’s Grillhouse This contemporary tavern serves an elevated version made with grilled chicken, gorgonzola, cream cheese, cheddar, hot sauce, and bleu cheese crumbles The higher-quality ingredients provide next-level flavor. The grilled chicken brings smoky undertones, the gorgonzola adds tang, and the cheddar provides a creamy base. Meanwhile, the bleu cheese crumbles on top give little pockets of salty sharpness in each bite.
The dip is served warm with crispy house-made tortilla chips that stand up nicely without getting soggy. While Barret’s has a handful of locations, trying this dip is worth going a little out of your way. It provides a sophisticated take on a typically casual appetizer. Just be prepared to order multiple rounds!
Applebee’s – A Neighborhood Favorite
Some Applebee’s restaurants allow you to customize your spice level too. Opt for “mild” if you’re spice-sensitive or go for “extra hot” to really bring the heat. While it may not be gourmet, this reliable rendition is perfect for kicking off a casual dinner with friends. As an added bonus, Applebee’s often discounts the dip during happy hour.
Chili’s – Spicy Southwestern-Style
I recommend requesting it “extra spicy” to really amplify the heat from the jalapeños. The cool and creamy cheese base balances the spice nicely. This version makes a great sharable starter if you’re dining at Chili’s for burgers or fajitas. It’s an affordable app too at just $6.79.
Red Robin – Bottomless Dipping
While the dip itself is decent, the best part is the bottomless refills. Just when you think you’ve reached the bottom of the skillet, your server will offer to bring more. Take advantage of this unlimited deal to get your fill of cheesy, spicy goodness alongside your gourmet burger. Pro tip: save room for endless fries too!
Insights From My Cheesy Quest
Beyond Restaurants: Delicious Homemade Options
Can’t find what you’re craving on a restaurant menu? Whip up buffalo chicken dip at home! I suggest using Frank’s RedHot Original Sauce for that classic fiery flavor. Shredded rotisserie chicken and a blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and pepper jack or bleu cheese will recreate that addictive restaurant-style experience.
For a lighter alternative, swap the cream cheese for Greek yogurt. You can also play with add-ins like chopped bacon or scallions. Baked in a casserole dish or slow cooker, homemade buffalo chicken dip is easy to transport for parties and picnics too. Don’t be surprised if you start getting requests to bring your signature version to every gathering!
Final Takeaways on the Best Buffalo Chicken Dip
This cheese-coated journey showed me that exceptional buffalo chicken dip is within reach at restaurants nationwide. For an authentic and balanced classic version, Buffalo Wild Wings came out on top. However, chains like Applebee’s, Chili’s, and Red Robin also offer tasty renditions with convenient locations. Or level up the flavors at Barrett’s Grillhouse for a gourmet small plates-style presentation.
Serve it hot or cold.
Come game day, a Super Bowl party, or, you know, just Thursday night: Build your dip in a skillet and broil it until bubbling, or simply stir everything together in a large bowl if you’d like to keep it cold. If you want to make it ahead of time, you can keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, then serve chilled or pop it in a baking dish and reheat.
Can you make this in a Crockpot or slow cooker? Technically, yes. But it won’t save you any prep time, and it’ll rob you of the opportunity to broil the dip at the end, which, to me, is what sends it over the top. Stovetop is best here.
To serve, a sidecar of veggies (like celery sticks and carrot sticks), crackers, and sturdy potato or tortilla chips makes it party ready. Or just pair it with a crusty baguette and call it dinner.
Honey Buffalo Chicken Dip goes HARD
FAQ
Does Hooters have buffalo chicken dip?
BUFFALO CHICKEN DIP. WHO’S GOT TENDER, SHREDDED CHICKEN, SPICY BUFFALO SAUCE AND CREAMY MELTED CHEESE? THIS GUY! WE TOP THE WHOLE THING WITH YOUR CHOICE OF RANCH OR BLEU CHEESE.
Does Sonic have buffalo chicken?
Sonic just brought back their Buffalo Chicken Bites and added a new 20 pc Party Pack option to load up for game day! According to @sonicdrivein, these bites feature “Juicy chicken, buffalo sauce, and melty cheddar cheese blended together and then stuffed and fried in a crispy, golden-brown wrapper.”
Does BWW have buffalo chicken dip?
Product Details. Enjoy a kick of heat at home with our Buffalo Wild Wings Creamy Buffalo Dip. Made with cayenne red pepper, garlic and cream, our Creamy Buffalo Dip satisfies any tailgate party or dinner table.
How much are the buffalo chicken dip bites at Sonic?
| Size | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Small (3 pcs) | $2.99 | 170 |
| Med (5 pcs) | $4.29 | 280 |
| Large (7 pcs) | $5.79 | 390 |