BBQ chicken dip is a warm, cheesy crowd-pleaser that combines tender chicken with smoky barbecue sauce and gooey melted cheese. It’s the perfect mix of tangy, savory, and a little bit sweet, all in one easy-to-share dish. I love how the creamy texture pairs with the barbecue flavor, making it a really comforting snack or appetizer.
Whenever I make BBQ chicken dip, it’s always the first thing to disappear at any gathering. I like to use shredded chicken for that perfect bite-sized texture and a good BBQ sauce that’s not too spicy but full of flavor. One little tip I’ve learned is to sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top before baking so it gets all bubbly and golden—makes it look as good as it tastes!
I usually serve this dip with crunchy crackers, toasted baguette slices, or even fresh veggies for dipping. It’s great for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in. For me, it’s one of those simple recipes that I keep coming back to because it’s easy to make and always puts a smile on everyone’s face.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer rotisserie chicken for its convenience and flavor. You can also use leftover cooked chicken or quickly poach chicken breasts if you want a lighter option.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose a BBQ sauce you love since it sets the tone for the dip’s flavor. If you want less sweetness or heat, try a tangy or milder sauce. For a smoky twist, add a touch of chipotle sauce.
Cream Cheese: This adds rich creaminess. Soften it at room temperature for easy mixing. You can swap for Greek yogurt for a lighter touch, but it might change texture slightly.
Cheese: Cheddar brings sharpness; mozzarella adds gooey meltiness. For variety, try pepper jack for spice or Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
Green Onions: These add fresh, mild onion flavor. Feel free to substitute with chives or finely diced red onion for a different but fresh note.
How Do You Get a Perfectly Bubbly and Golden BBQ Chicken Dip?
The key is layering and baking the dip until hot and bubbly with a golden top:
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish to help it heat uniformly.
- Top with cheese generously—this helps form that golden crust.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes until bubbling.
- Watch the dip closely near the end so the cheese browns without burning.
- Let it cool for a few minutes after baking to thicken slightly and avoid burns when serving.
This method gives you hot, cheesy layers with that irresistible golden top while making the dip creamy inside. Adding fresh green onions after baking brightens the flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – big enough to combine all the ingredients easily without making a mess.
- Oven-safe baking dish or skillet – perfect for baking and serving the dip hot and bubbly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amounts of BBQ sauce, cheese, and seasonings.
- Spatula or spoon – for mixing everything smoothly and scraping the sides of the bowl.
- Knife and cutting board – to slice green onions for garnish and add fresh flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shredded chicken for cooked pulled pork or beef for a different BBQ meat twist.
- Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like your dip with a spicy kick.
- Add corn kernels or black beans for extra texture and a bit of sweetness.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a creamy dip with mild heat.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Dip?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dip:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or poached)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips or crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So overall, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes from start to finish before you can enjoy this warm and cheesy BBQ chicken dip.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Chicken with Barbecue Sauce:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce. Stir well until the chicken is completely coated with the sauce, giving it that delicious tangy BBQ flavor.
2. Add Creamy Ingredients and Seasonings:
Add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the chicken mixture. Mix everything until well blended and creamy.
3. Stir in Cheese and Green Onions:
Fold in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese along with the sliced green onions. This will make the dip cheesy and add a hint of fresh onion flavor throughout.
4. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly:
Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes. The dip should be bubbly and the cheese golden on top.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the dip from the oven and sprinkle slices of green onion on top for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve hot with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before shredding and mixing it with the BBQ sauce. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker results.
Can I Make BBQ Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip mixture and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dip is very cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What Can I Serve with BBQ Chicken Dip?
Tortilla chips and crackers are classics, but fresh veggies like celery sticks, carrot sticks, or bell pepper strips also pair wonderfully for a lighter option.