BBQ chicken dip
BBQ chicken dip is a crowd-pleasing party favorite that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender shredded chicken and tangy barbecue sauce. It’s got that perfect mix of smoky, sweet, and…
Tip: save now, cook later.BBQ chicken dip is a crowd-pleasing party favorite that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender shredded chicken and tangy barbecue sauce. It’s got that perfect mix of smoky, sweet, and cheesy flavors that make it super addictive. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it a go-to appetizer when friends or family come over.
I love making this dip when we’re hanging out with a group because everyone can’t help but keep going back for more. I usually throw it together in one bowl, pop it in the oven, and then serve it warm and gooey. A simple tip: using a mix of cheeses, like cheddar and mozzarella, really amps up the flavor and gives the dip a fantastic melty texture.
My favorite way to serve BBQ chicken dip is with crispy tortilla chips or fresh veggies for dipping. It’s perfect for casual get-togethers or game day, and I always end up wishing I’d made double the batch. For me, BBQ chicken dip hits that sweet spot between comforting and fun, making any gathering feel just a bit more special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken because it’s ready to go and full of flavor. If you don’t have that on hand, boiled or grilled chicken also works great. For a lighter option, shredded turkey is a good substitute.
Cream cheese: This makes the dip creamy and smooth. If you want to cut fat, try using light cream cheese or Greek yogurt, but the dip won’t be quite as rich.
Barbecue sauce: Pick your favorite brand or homemade sauce. Sweet, smoky, or spicy styles all change the flavor. If you want less sugar, try a low-sugar or vinegar-based BBQ sauce.
Cheese blend: Cheddar adds a sharp bite, while mozzarella melts beautifully. You can swap mozzarella with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick.
Bacon: Optional but adds smoky crunch. For a vegetarian version, try smoked paprika or crispy fried onions.
How Can I Get the Best Melt and Creamy Texture for BBQ Chicken Dip?
Melted cheese and creamy texture are key! Here’s how I do it:
- Soften cream cheese well before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Mix cream cheese and BBQ sauce first until smooth, then fold in chicken and cheeses.
- Spread mixture evenly in your baking dish for even heating.
- Bake at 350°F for around 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let it rest a few minutes to thicken slightly before serving—this helps the texture hold up when scooping.
These steps help make the dip irresistibly gooey without being too runny or dry.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish – I prefer a small to medium oven-safe dish to fit the dip nicely and heat evenly.
- Mixing bowl – for combining all the ingredients smoothly without making a mess.
- Spatula or spoon – helps you mix well and spread the dip evenly in the baking dish.
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot baking dish.
- Grater – if you shred your own cheese, this saves time and gives fresher results.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to spice it up if you like some heat.
- Use pulled pork instead of chicken for a different smoky BBQ twist.
- Mix in corn kernels or black beans for a touch of sweetness and extra texture.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese to bring a mild spicy kick with the melt.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or boiled chicken works well)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- ¼ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- Crack black pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips or crackers, for serving
Time Needed:
This BBQ chicken dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. After baking, allow a few minutes for it to cool slightly before serving. In total, you’ll need around 35 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Mix Ingredients:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and barbecue sauce until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
2. Combine Chicken and Cheese:
Add the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped green onions, and crumbled bacon if you’re using it. Mix everything together until it’s evenly combined. Season with black pepper to taste.
3. Bake the Dip:
Transfer your mixture to a baking dish or an oven-safe dish, smoothing out the top with a spoon or spatula. Drizzle a little extra barbecue sauce over the top and give it a gentle swirl for added flavor. Bake the dip in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted and golden.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, let the dip cool for a few minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with additional chopped green onions. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies for dipping. Enjoy your delicious, creamy, and smoky BBQ chicken dip!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before shredding. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This helps ensure the dip mixes well and cooks evenly.
Can I Make BBQ Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly again.
What Can I Use Instead of Bacon?
If you prefer not to use bacon, smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke can add a similar smoky flavor. You could also skip it altogether—the dip is delicious without it!