Buffalo Chicken Dip Jalapenos

Name: Buffalo Chicken Dip Jalapenos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cooked chicken; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup ranch dressing; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded; 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled (optional); Cooking spray

Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals

I love making Buffalo Chicken Dip Jalapenos for gatherings and game days. The spicy kick from the buffalo sauce combined with creamy cheese and tender shredded chicken is simply irresistible. Stuffing the dip into fresh jalapeno halves not only makes for a fun presentation, but it also offers a perfect balance of heat and flavor. Every bite is a burst of zesty goodness, and I can’t resist going back for seconds. Plus, it's super easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe that everyone can enjoy.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-01-16T13:30:28.711Z

When I first made Buffalo Chicken Dip Jalapenos, I was surprised at how quickly the flavors came together. By mixing cream cheese, shredded chicken, and buffalo sauce, I created a creamy base that can be adapted with different spices. The best part? Baking them in the oven lets the cheese melt perfectly while the jalapenos become tender yet still maintain their crunch.

I've tried baking them and grilling them, and I must say, the oven method really makes all the flavors meld beautifully. I recommend serving them with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, which adds to the overall experience and complements the spice of the jalapenos.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy and creamy flavor combination that tantalizes the taste buds
Easy finger food perfect for parties and gatherings
Customizable with your favorite cheeses and spices

      

Why the Ingredients Matter

Each ingredient in this Buffalo Chicken Dip Jalapenos plays a critical role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture balance. The cream cheese serves as a base, providing a rich, creamy texture that counteracts the heat of the buffalo sauce. It is essential to soften the cream cheese before mixing; this ensures a smooth and clump-free filling. For an extra creamy result, you can mix in a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt, which will also add a slight tang to the dip.

Shredded chicken should be cooked and cooled before use. You can easily prepare it in advance using rotisserie chicken for convenience or boil and shred chicken breasts. Just be sure to avoid overly dry or stringy chicken by not overcooking it. The combination of ranch dressing and cheddar cheese not only enhances the flavor profile but also thickens the dip, giving it the perfect consistency to hold in the jalapeno halves without spilling out.

Jalapeno Preparation Tips

When preparing jalapenos for stuffing, consider your heat tolerance. Removing the seeds and membranes substantially reduces their spiciness, making the dish more palatable for those who prefer milder flavors. If you enjoy a little more heat, you can leave some seeds intact or choose spicier varieties of peppers, such as serranos. Additionally, using gloves while handling jalapenos prevents irritation; remember to wash your hands thoroughly afterward to avoid accidentally touching your face or eyes.

For an alternative presentation, try slicing the jalapenos into rounds instead of halves to create bite-sized rings. This variation can make for a fun and sharable appetizer, perfect for casual gatherings. Just be sure to adjust the baking time; smaller pieces may cook faster, so check them after 15 minutes to ensure they do not burn.

Make-Ahead and Storage Solutions

This buffalo chicken dip can be made ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for busy hosts. Prepare the filling, stuff the jalapenos, and then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to serve, simply pop them in a preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, as they might need a little longer since they're starting cold. This method keeps the prep stress-free and ensures you’ll have a delicious appetizer ready with minimal last-minute effort.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, just until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. While you can microwave them, the oven method keeps the jalapenos from becoming soggy, maintaining that delightful texture.

Ingredients

For Buffalo Chicken Dip

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cooked chicken
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup ranch dressing
1/4 cup green onions, chopped

For Jalapeno Peppers

12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded
1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled (optional)
Cooking spray

Make sure to wear gloves while handling the jalapenos to avoid irritation.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, and green onions. Mix until well combined.

Prepare the Jalapenos

Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds for less heat. Lightly spray the baking sheet with cooking spray.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Fill each jalapeno half with the buffalo chicken dip mixture. If desired, sprinkle blue cheese on top.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving alongside ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Pro Tips

For a milder version, leave some seeds in the jalapenos or use mild wing sauce. You can also prepare the filling in advance and stuff the jalapenos just before baking for a quick snack.

Serving Suggestions

For serving, pair these stuffed jalapenos with a cooling dipping sauce like extra ranch or a yogurt-based dip to balance the heat. Fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery can enhance the crunch factor and offer a refreshing contrast. You might even consider serving them alongside tortilla chips for added texture and flavor, as they complement the spicy creaminess of the dip brilliantly.

If you're hosting a larger gathering, consider preparing other variations of stuffed jalapenos by mixing in crab meat or sautéed vegetables for a hearty option. You can also create a spicy dipping sauce with hot sauce and avocado to drizzle over the finished dish, giving it a gourmet twist.

Variations of the Recipe

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the filling. For instance, mozzarella or pepper jack can add a melty pull and fresh flavor profile to the dish. You can also mix in other spices or herbs, such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a little cilantro, which can brighten the flavors and enhance the overall taste.

For those looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the cream cheese with Neufchâtel cheese or low-fat cream cheese. Additionally, using Greek yogurt instead of the ranch dressing can provide a tangy twist while reducing calories and adding protein.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these buffalo chicken dip jalapenos ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and stuff the jalapenos just before baking.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you'd like.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

To reduce spice, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapenos, or use milder sauce.

→ Can these be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed jalapenos before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.