BBQ chicken dip
BBQ chicken dip is that perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavors all rolled into one easy-to-make dish. It’s packed with shredded chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, gooey cheese, and…
Tip: save now, cook later.BBQ chicken dip is that perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavors all rolled into one easy-to-make dish. It’s packed with shredded chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, gooey cheese, and a little bit of creaminess that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. This dip is great for snack time or gatherings when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss.
I love making this BBQ chicken dip because it comes together quickly and always gets devoured way faster than I expect. My favorite tip is to use a good-quality barbecue sauce—it really makes a difference in the flavor. Sometimes, I like to add a little extra cheese on top before baking to get that bubbly, golden crust that makes it extra irresistible.
Serving this dip with crispy tortilla chips or even fresh veggie sticks is my go-to. It’s the kind of dish that everyone crowding around the table can’t get enough of, and it’s super easy to keep warm in the oven if you’re hanging out for a while. BBQ chicken dip always brings a cozy, friendly vibe to any get-together, making it one of my favorite crowd-pleasers.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut because it’s already cooked and flavorful. If you don’t have it, boil chicken breasts or thighs and shred them yourself. Leftover cooked chicken works well here too.
Cream Cheese: This is the creamy base of the dip. Make sure it’s softened to mix easily. For a dairy-free option, try a vegan cream cheese substitute to keep that creamy texture.
Barbecue Sauce: This adds the bold, smoky flavor. Use your favorite brand, or homemade BBQ sauce. If you want less sweetness, look for a sauce labeled ‘vinegar-based’ or add a little hot sauce for heat.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella create a perfect melty combo—cheddar brings sharpness, mozzarella adds stretchiness. Use Monterey Jack or Colby if you want a milder cheese, or add pepper jack for a kick.
Sour Cream or Mayonnaise: These add extra creaminess and tang. You can skip them if you prefer a lighter dip, or substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Melty and Golden BBQ Chicken Dip?
Melting the cheese evenly and getting a golden top is key to this dip’s appeal. Here’s how I do it:
- Spread the dip mixture evenly in your baking dish so it cooks uniformly.
- Top with cheese last to create a bubbly, golden crust as it bakes.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) to melt the cheese without drying out the dip.
- Keep an eye on it during the last 5 minutes—for a browned top, switch to broil briefly but watch closely to prevent burning.
- After baking, drizzle BBQ sauce on top for extra flavor and garnish with fresh green onions for a nice color and crunch contrast.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – to combine all your ingredients smoothly without a mess.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – perfect for mixing and spreading the dip evenly in the dish.
- Oven-safe baking dish (8×8-inch or similar) – holds the dip and can go straight into the oven for baking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amounts of cheese, sauce, and spices every time.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for pulled pork or ground beef for a different BBQ flavor that’s just as tasty.
- Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick that wakes up the dip.
- Mix in some corn kernels or black beans to add texture and a bit of sweetness.
- Top with crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of smoky crunch that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Dip?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or boiled)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sour cream or mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Optional seasonings: ¼ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- Crackers, tortilla chips, or sliced veggies for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ chicken dip takes about 10 minutes of preparation and around 20-25 minutes to bake. So in total, plan for about 30-35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mixture:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, barbecue sauce, and sour cream or mayonnaise if you’re using it. Stir these together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Add Chicken and Cheese:
Mix in the shredded chicken, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Add the garlic powder and smoked paprika if you like a little extra flavor. Stir everything until it’s well combined.
3. Bake the Dip:
Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
4. Final Touches and Serving:
Once baked, take the dip out of the oven and drizzle some extra barbecue sauce over the top. Garnish with the sliced green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve warm with your favorite crackers, tortilla chips, or veggies.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before shredding it. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing.
Can I Prepare BBQ Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can mix all the ingredients and store the dip in the baking dish covered in the fridge 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?
Keep leftover dip in an airtight container or cover the baking dish with foil. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
Definitely! Add chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the mixture before baking for a spicy twist that complements the smoky BBQ flavors.
