Craving that irresistible spicy kick of buffalo chicken dip without the guilt? You’re in luck! This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip transforms a classic into a high-protein, low-carb delight that tastes just as amazing as the original. Forget heavy cream cheese; we’re using smart swaps to create a creamy, flavorful dish that supports your health goals. Perfect for parties, meal prep, or simply satisfying a craving, this recipe is a game-changer.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy all the creamy, spicy flavor of classic buffalo chicken dip without the heavy calories. This version is packed with protein and lower in carbs.
- High-Protein Powerhouse: Made with cottage cheese and Greek yogurt, it’s a fantastic way to boost your protein intake, keeping you full and satisfied.
- Quick & Easy Prep: Whip this up in no time, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or a speedy weeknight snack. Minimal effort, maximum flavor!
- Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: A guaranteed hit for game days, parties, or any casual get-together. Everyone will love this healthier twist on a beloved appetizer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups small-curd cottage cheese, (we recommend Good Culture for no fillers)
- 1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken breast, (from rotisserie, canned, or freshly cooked)
- 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce, (like Frank’s Red Hot, adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated for superior melt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or a similar-sized glass pie plate. This ensures a non-stick surface and helps with even baking and easy serving.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, buffalo hot sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well-incorporated and the cottage cheese appears mostly smooth, creating a creamy, tangy base.
Step 3:
Gently fold in the shredded cooked chicken and three-quarters of the freshly grated cheddar cheese (save the rest for topping). Mix until the chicken and cheese are evenly distributed throughout the flavorful dip mixture.
Step 4:
Pour the prepared mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer. If desired, sprinkle the remaining one-quarter cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the optional crumbled blue cheese over the top.
Step 5:
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly around the edges and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden brown. This ensures all the flavors meld together perfectly and the dip reaches an irresistible consistency.
Step 6:
Remove the dip from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped chives or green onions, if using, and serve warm with your favorite healthy dippers such as celery sticks, bell pepper strips, or whole-wheat pita chips.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve this delicious dip warm with an array of dippers. Fresh celery sticks, carrot spears, and bell pepper strips are excellent low-carb options that add a refreshing crunch. For those who enjoy a classic pairing, whole-grain tortilla chips or pretzel thins also work wonderfully. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh chives or crumbled blue cheese for garnish! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This dip is fantastic for meal prep throughout the week. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. If it seems a little thick, you can stir in a tablespoon of milk or chicken broth to restore its creamy texture.
Helpful Notes
- Adjust the Heat: Frank’s Red Hot is classic, but feel free to use more or less buffalo sauce to suit your spice preference. A dash of cayenne pepper can amp up the heat further.
- Chicken Choices: While rotisserie chicken is super convenient, canned chicken (drained well) or freshly cooked, shredded chicken breasts work perfectly. Ensure it’s finely shredded for the best texture.
- Cheese Matters: Always grate your own sharp cheddar cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can make your dip watery and less creamy when melted.
Conclusion
This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip proves that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for health. By cleverly swapping out high-fat ingredients for protein-rich alternatives like cottage cheese and Greek yogurt, we’ve created a dish that’s incredibly satisfying, guilt-free, and bursting with that iconic buffalo tang. It’s the perfect game-day appetizer, party snack, or even a delightful high-protein lunch option. Now that you’ve discovered this amazing recipe, it’s time to make it your own! We’d love to hear your thoughts, tips, and serving ideas in the comments below. Don’t forget to leave a star rating and share your delicious creation on social media. Your feedback helps our community of healthy eaters grow!
Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip Amazing High Protein Meal
Ingredients
- 2 cups small-curd cottage cheese (we recommend Good Culture for no fillers)
- 1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken breast (from rotisserie, canned, or freshly cooked)
- 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce (like Frank’s Red Hot, adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated for superior melt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives or green onions chopped (for garnish, optional)
- 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese optional, for topping
Instructions
Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or a similar-sized glass pie plate. This ensures a non-stick surface and helps with even baking and easy serving.
Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, buffalo hot sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well-incorporated and the cottage cheese appears mostly smooth, creating a creamy, tangy base.
Step 3:
- Gently fold in the shredded cooked chicken and three-quarters of the freshly grated cheddar cheese (save the rest for topping). Mix until the chicken and cheese are evenly distributed throughout the flavorful dip mixture.
Step 4:
- Pour the prepared mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer. If desired, sprinkle the remaining one-quarter cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the optional crumbled blue cheese over the top.
Step 5:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly around the edges and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden brown. This ensures all the flavors meld together perfectly and the dip reaches an irresistible consistency.
Step 6:
- Remove the dip from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped chives or green onions, if using, and serve warm with your favorite healthy dippers such as celery sticks, bell pepper strips, or whole-wheat pita chips.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Estimated)
Note: These values are per serving and are approximate.| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 265kcal |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Protein | 29g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can buffalo chicken dip be healthy?
Yes, absolutely! By making smart ingredient swaps, like using cottage cheese and Greek yogurt instead of traditional cream cheese and ranch, you can significantly reduce fat and calories while boosting protein content. Our recipe is a perfect example of a healthier version.
What are healthy options to eat with buffalo chicken dip?
For healthy dippers, choose fresh vegetables like celery sticks, carrot spears, bell pepper strips (red, yellow, orange), cucumber slices, or even crisp lettuce cups. These add crunch and nutrients without extra calories.
How long is homemade buffalo chicken dip good for in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade healthy buffalo chicken dip is typically good for 3 to 4 days. This makes it excellent for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers.
How long can buffalo chicken dip safely sit out at room temperature?
Like most dishes containing dairy and chicken, buffalo chicken dip should not sit out at room temperature for more than two hours. After two hours, bacteria can multiply rapidly, making it unsafe to eat.
