Zesty Lime Barbecue Buffalo Chicken Dip
Dive into a heavenly fusion of bold flavors with our Zesty Lime Barbecue Buffalo Chicken Dip. This recipe takes the traditional buffalo dip to new heights with a creamy texture, complemented by just the right amount of tangy lime and smoky barbecue sauce. Perfect for gatherings, it's a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with crunchy chips and a refreshing margarita. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this is one dish your guests won't forget.
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chunk chicken
20 ounces (canned)
Cream cheese
16 ounces (softened)
Ranch dressing
1 cup
Lime juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed)
Barbecue sauce
1/4 cup
Buffalo wing sauce
1/4 cup
Mexican blend cheese
1 1/2 cups (shredded)
Red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon
Ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon
Onion powder
1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the chunk chicken, lime juice, barbecue sauce, and buffalo wing sauce. Stir well to mix the flavors together.
2
Add the ground cumin, red pepper flakes, and onion powder to the saucepan, stirring constantly to evenly distribute the spices.
3
Once the mixture is heated through, lower the heat and gently fold in the ranch dressing and softened cream cheese. Stir until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
4
Remove the saucepan from the heat, and carefully fold in half of the shredded Mexican blend cheese, stirring to ensure it's well incorporated.
5
Pour the mixture into a large baking dish or crockpot, then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top.
6
Serve warm, or keep on low in a crockpot to maintain the temperature. If needed, reheat the dip in the baking dish until bubbly before serving.
7
Adjust the level of heat to your liking by adding more buffalo wing sauce if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Lime Barbecue Buffalo Chicken Dip?
It is a creamy fusion of traditional buffalo dip with tangy lime and smoky barbecue sauce.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.
What are the main ingredients in this dip?
The main ingredients include chunk chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, lime juice, barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, and Mexican blend cheese.
Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?
Yes, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast as a substitute.
How do I soften the cream cheese?
Leave the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes until it is pliable.
Is this buffalo chicken dip spicy?
It has a moderate kick from the buffalo sauce and red pepper flakes, balanced by the cream cheese.
How can I adjust the heat level of the dip?
You can add more buffalo wing sauce for more heat or reduce the red pepper flakes for a milder version.
What type of barbecue sauce should I use?
Any smoky or sweet barbecue sauce will work depending on your flavor preference.
Can I use blue cheese dressing instead of ranch?
Yes, blue cheese dressing is a great alternative if you prefer a sharper taste.
What is in the Mexican blend cheese?
It is typically a mix of Monterey Jack, Cheddar, Queso Quesadilla, and Asadero cheeses.
How should I serve this dip?
Serve it warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables like celery and carrots.
Can I make this recipe in a crockpot?
Yes, you can combine the ingredients in a slow cooker and heat on low until fully melted.
How do I reheat leftover dip?
Reheat in the microwave in short intervals or in the oven until it is bubbly.
Is this chicken dip gluten-free?
The main ingredients are gluten-free, but always check the labels on your barbecue and buffalo sauces.
Can I prepare this dip in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dip ahead of time and bake or heat it when you are ready to serve.
How long does the dip stay fresh in the refrigerator?
It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this dip?
Freezing is not recommended as the cream cheese and ranch dressing may separate upon thawing.
What chips go best with Zesty Lime Barbecue Buffalo Chicken Dip?
Tortilla chips or sturdy potato chips are excellent choices for scooping.
Are there healthy serving suggestions?
Yes, try serving with cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or cauliflower florets.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Freshly squeezed lime juice is best for flavor, but bottled lime juice is a fine substitute.
What spices are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses ground cumin, red pepper flakes, and onion powder for extra depth.
Can I double the recipe for a larger party?
Yes, simply double all ingredient amounts and use a larger baking dish or slow cooker.
What makes this dip 'zesty'?
The addition of fresh lime juice provides a bright, tangy finish that contrasts the smoky BBQ sauce.
Is this dip keto-friendly?
It is high in fat and protein, but check your barbecue sauce for sugar content if you are following a strict keto diet.
Can I bake this dip in the oven?
Yes, bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until the cheese on top is melted and the dip is heated through.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 9x9 inch or a 2-quart baking dish is perfect for this amount of dip.
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation on the stovetop takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely, rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves time on preparation.
Is this dip suitable for a football party?
Yes, it is a classic crowd-pleaser for game days and social gatherings.
Can I omit the red pepper flakes?
Yes, you can leave them out if you want to minimize the spicy heat.