Description
This Nashville Hot Chicken Dip is a spicy, creamy appetizer that combines shredded chicken with rich cream cheese, tangy ranch, cheddar cheese, and a blend of hot sauce and spices. Baked until bubbly and topped with pickles for a classic Southern-inspired flavor, it’s perfect for game day or party spreads and served warm with crackers, chips, or veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
For Garnish & Serving
- 1/4 cup sliced pickles (for garnish, optional)
- Crackers, celery sticks, or toasted bread for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish, approximately 8×8 inches.
- Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, hot sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
- Add Chicken and Cheese: Fold in the shredded cooked chicken and shredded cheddar cheese until they are thoroughly incorporated into the creamy base.
- Prepare for Baking: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for even cooking.
- Bake the Dip: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly around the edges.
- Add Garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle the top with sliced pickles for a tangy contrast.
- Serve: Serve the warm dip alongside crackers, celery sticks, or toasted bread for dipping and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For an extra spicy kick, drizzle additional hot sauce over the dip after baking.
- This dip pairs perfectly with a variety of dippers such as celery sticks, crackers, or toasted breads, but be sure to verify gluten-free options if needed.
- Prepare the dip a day ahead and store in the refrigerator; reheat in the oven before serving for convenience.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to suit your preferred heat level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern-Inspired
