If you’re looking for a snack that’s bold, creamy, and packed with fuel—not fluff—this high protein buffalo chicken dip might just be your new favorite. Made with shredded chicken, cottage cheese, and Greek yogurt, it delivers serious flavor and over 30 grams of protein per serving. Whether it’s game day, movie night, or just Tuesday, this dip is ready in minutes, bakes to golden perfection, and keeps everyone coming back for more. The best part? You can feel good about digging in, because this isn’t just delicious—it’s balanced, hearty, and secretly smart.
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A Game Day Dip with Heart
There’s something magical about football Sundays—cool air outside, the cozy hum of the oven inside, and the comforting ritual of everyone gathered around a warm dish. That’s when I usually make this high protein buffalo chicken dip, and it always brings the room together.
The first time I made a healthier version of buffalo chicken dip, I was simply out of cream cheese. What I had was cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and leftover chicken. So I blended the cottage cheese, stirred everything together, and hoped for the best. And guess what? It turned out better than the original. The tang, the heat, the richness—it was all there, but without the heaviness.
Now it’s a staple in my kitchen. Whether I’m making it for friends, family, or just to meal prep a few protein-packed snacks, this buffalo chicken dip is my go-to. You can scoop it with celery, pile it on chips, or spread it in a wrap—it’s versatile, craveable, and always satisfying. I even like packing it for lunch when I know I’ll need something hearty, because nothing beats the comfort and nutrition of this high protein buffalo chicken dip mid-day.
Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Dip
There are plenty of reasons this dish has earned its permanent spot in my recipe box:
- It’s a true high protein buffalo chicken dip. Cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and shredded chicken pack a protein punch.
- Ridiculously creamy without any mayo or cream cheese.
- Meal-prep friendly and reheats beautifully.
- Perfect for sharing—or not. (No shame.)
Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to whip it up.
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High Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This high protein buffalo chicken dip is creamy, spicy, and secretly healthy. Made with shredded chicken, cottage cheese, and Greek yogurt, it’s perfect for game day, meal prep, or an easy crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
3/4 cup cottage cheese
3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
Instructions
Step 1. Preheat oven to 375°F : Get your oven warm and ready.
Step 2. Blend cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, buffalo sauce, and garlic powder : Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the blended mixture : Mix until evenly coated.
Step 4. Stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar : Reserve extra for topping.
Step 5. Transfer mixture to a baking dish : Spread it evenly.
Step 6. Top with more shredded cheddar : Just enough to cover.
Step 7. Bake for 15–20 minutes : Until hot and bubbling.
Step 8. Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes – For a golden, cheesy top.
Step 9. Let cool slightly and serve warm : Best with celery, crackers, or on a wrap.
Notes
For extra protein, use rotisserie chicken breast.
Make it spicier by adding cayenne or chopped jalapeños.
Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days.
Not freezer friendly due to dairy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Ingredients for High Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip
This high protein buffalo chicken dip relies on simple ingredients you might already have in your fridge—but it’s how they work together that makes the magic. The texture is creamy, the flavor has just the right kick, and best of all, every scoop gives you a boost of protein without feeling heavy.
What Makes This Dip High Protein?
The star here is a trio of power ingredients: shredded chicken, cottage cheese, and Greek yogurt. All three are high in protein, low in fuss, and blend together to create that rich, dippable base we love. Here’s how it all breaks down:
- Chicken – You can use rotisserie, pre-shredded, or homemade. I like boiling a couple of chicken breasts, letting them cool, and shredding them by hand for maximum texture.
- Cottage cheese – This might raise an eyebrow, but trust me: once blended, it’s smooth and creamy. Use full-fat or low-fat depending on your preference.
- Greek yogurt – Adds creaminess and a bright tang that softens the bold heat of the hot sauce, giving each bite balance and depth.
Combined, these three deliver that protein-rich base that sets this buffalo chicken dip apart from traditional versions.
Smart Swaps for Creaminess & Flavor
You’ve got plenty of room to play here—these are some of the tweaks I reach for most often:
- Cheese options – Use shredded cheddar, Colby Jack, or Monterey Jack. Shredding your own cheese melts better, but pre-shredded works fine too.
- Buffalo sauce – I usually use Frank’s RedHot, but any brand will do. Start with ¼ cup and adjust to taste.
- Add-ins – Try crumbled blue cheese, chopped jalapeños, or even a dash of smoked paprika for depth.
Once you’ve got your ingredients ready, all that’s left is to stir, bake, and enjoy the cheesiest, easiest high protein buffalo chicken dip you’ve ever made.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Dip Healthier (Without Losing Flavor)
There’s something especially satisfying about a dish that feels indulgent but still supports your goals. This high protein buffalo chicken dip manages both. With a few smart tweaks and flexible cooking methods, you get all the creamy, spicy, cheesy goodness—without the heaviness or extra calories.
Simple Prep, Big Payoff
This high protein buffalo chicken dip comes together fast—especially if your chicken is already cooked and ready to go. When I’m planning ahead, I’ll simmer a couple of breasts in salted water with a bay leaf and peppercorns. If I’m in a rush, a store-bought rotisserie chicken or even canned chicken totally works.
Next comes the creamy base. I like to blend the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt together until smooth—it takes just a minute, but the texture becomes velvety and spoon-friendly. You can skip this if you don’t mind a bit of curd texture, but I’ve found the extra step is worth it.
Once the creamy mixture is ready, I stir everything together in a large mixing bowl: the shredded chicken, that tangy base, a few spoonfuls of buffalo sauce, and a generous sprinkle of seasoning—garlic powder or ranch both work great. About half the cheese goes in now, and the rest is saved for the top.
From there, it all gets poured into a baking dish and topped with the rest of the cheddar. I usually bake it at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, and if I want that bubbly, browned finish on top, I’ll switch the oven to broil for just a minute or two. Keep an eye on it—the cheese can turn fast!
The end result? A cozy, crowd-pleasing buffalo chicken dip that’s melty, rich, and secretly filled with protein-packed ingredients you can feel good about. And once you try it this way, I’m betting this healthier spin becomes your go-to version of high protein buffalo chicken dip for everything from parties to meal prep.
Cook It Your Way: Oven, Skillet, or Crockpot
One thing I love about this high protein buffalo chicken dip is how flexible it is to prepare. You don’t need a big kitchen or a ton of time—just pick the method that fits your day:
- Cast iron skillet: Pour everything into a seasoned skillet, bake, and serve straight from the pan for rustic charm.
- Slow cooker: Dump it all in, stir, and let it cook on low for 2–3 hours. Ideal for potlucks or long afternoons.
- Air fryer ramekins: Perfect for single servings—cook at 375°F for 6–8 minutes until golden and gooey.
You can even double the recipe and bake in two dishes if you’re feeding a crowd. However you cook it, this buffalo chicken dip will come out hot, creamy, and filled with flavor. And because it’s a high protein buffalo chicken dip, it won’t just satisfy cravings—it’ll actually keep you full.
Serving Ideas & Storage Tips for High Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip
Whether you’re hosting a big game day party or just sneaking a few bites straight from the fridge (we’ve all done it), this high protein buffalo chicken dip fits right in. It’s flexible, keeps well, and goes with just about everything—veggies, chips, even dinner rolls if you’re feeling cozy.
Best Ways to Serve This Dip
This dish was born for gatherings, but I’ve found it shines just as bright during quiet nights at home. Here are a few favorite ways we serve it around here:
- With dippers – Think carrot sticks, celery, sliced cucumbers, sweet bell pepper strips, and of course, tortilla chips. It’s also great with pretzel crisps or almond crackers if you’re leaning low-carb.
- In a wrap – Spread it inside a low-carb tortilla or lettuce wrap for a quick lunch. I sometimes pair it with greens and a drizzle of ranch for an easy, protein-packed lunch.
- Mini sliders – Spoon warm dip onto whole wheat slider buns and top with a pickle slice. A fun way to turn this buffalo chicken dip into a main course!
- Football food platter – Build a party board around the dip with wings, chopped veggies, chips, and air fryer potato rounds. It’s a total crowd-pleaser and a fun way to mix things up.
And hey, if you’re just standing in the kitchen eating it by the spoonful with no one around? That’s a valid serving suggestion too.
Make Ahead & Reheat Like a Pro
Another reason I love this high protein buffalo chicken dip? It holds up beautifully in the fridge and comes back to life just as delicious the next day. Here’s how I keep it fresh and tasty all week:
- Fridge storage: Let the dip cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days. It holds up beautifully.
- Reheating in the oven: Just transfer a portion to a small dish, loosely cover with foil, and bake at 375°F for about 10 minutes—just enough to warm it through without drying it out.
- Microwave method: Scoop a portion into a bowl, cover with a plate or damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.
- Freezing? Technically possible, but the texture can get a little grainy due to the dairy. I recommend enjoying it fresh or within the week for the best experience.
Meal prepping? This buffalo chicken dip is great portioned into small containers for grab-and-go snacks or lunches. It’s filling, flavorful, and so much more satisfying than a protein bar—or even a sweet bite like this date bark recipe if you’re craving something extra to round out your snack.
High Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip Variations & Tips
The beauty of this high protein buffalo chicken dip is that once you’ve got the base down, it’s endlessly adaptable. Whether you like it spicier, cheesier, or dairy-free, there’s room to make it yours. I’ve played with this recipe more times than I can count—these are the tricks and tweaks I come back to every time.
Flavor Add-Ins and Easy Substitutes
This dip doesn’t need much to shine, but if you’re feeling creative (or need to work with what you’ve got), these ideas will help enhance your high protein buffalo chicken dip even more:
- Add a ranch twist – Mix in 1 tablespoon of dry ranch seasoning or a spoonful of homemade ranch dressing to dial up that tangy, herby flavor.
- Spice it up – Add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce if you love a little fire. I’ve even tossed in chopped pickled jalapeños for an extra zing.
- Extra cheesy? Always. – Stir in more shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or even crumbled blue cheese if that’s your thing. A little goes a long way.
- No cottage cheese? – Swap in softened cream cheese or use all Greek yogurt. The texture will shift a bit, but it’ll still be creamy and satisfying.
- Going dairy-free? – You can go dairy-free by choosing unsweetened almond or coconut yogurt paired with your favorite non-dairy cheese alternative to keep your high protein buffalo chicken dip aligned with your needs.
You can also play with the chicken. Canned, shredded, rotisserie—it all works. The beauty of this buffalo chicken dip is that it’s meant to be forgiving and easy. However you mix and match, it’s still a satisfying high protein buffalo chicken dip that feels indulgent and fuels you up.
Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
I’ve tested this dip every which way—and I’ve made some mistakes along the road. If you’re making this high protein buffalo chicken dip for the first time (or the fiftieth), here are a few easy ways to avoid the usual slip-ups:
- Unblended cottage cheese – Cottage cheese won’t fully melt on its own. For that creamy texture, a quick blend with Greek yogurt makes a big difference.
- Over-saucing the dip – Too much buffalo sauce can overpower everything—start small, stir, and taste before adding more.
- Overdoing the bake time – Overdoing the bake time dries it out. As soon as it’s heated through and the top layer starts to bubble, pull it from the oven.
- Skipping seasoning – Don’t forget a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder. Without it, the dip can taste flat, especially if you’re using plain yogurt.
And the most important tip? Taste as you go. Cooking is personal—and this high protein buffalo chicken dip is one of those recipes that rewards little tweaks and preferences. Whether you like yours spicy, smoky, or extra cheesy, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this high-protein favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions About High Protein Buffalo Chicken Dip
Can I make high protein buffalo chicken dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! This high protein buffalo chicken dip is perfect for prepping in advance. Just mix everything together, transfer it to your baking dish, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Let it sit out for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven so it bakes evenly and comes out hot and bubbly.
Is this buffalo chicken dip gluten-free?
Yes, the base recipe for this high protein buffalo chicken dip is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check that your hot sauce, ranch seasoning, and any shredded cheese are labeled gluten-free. And if you’re serving it with crackers or bread, choose gluten-free options to keep the whole dish safe for sensitive guests.
Can I freeze leftover buffalo chicken dip?
Technically, yes—you can freeze this buffalo chicken dip in an airtight container for up to 2–3 months. But fair warning: the texture may get a little grainy due to the dairy once thawed. If you’re freezing it, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave to help bring back some of that creamy texture.
What are the best ways to make it spicier or milder?
To turn up the heat in your high protein buffalo chicken dip, add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne. Want a gentler version? Cut back on the buffalo sauce and add a bit more Greek yogurt or cottage cheese to cool things down. You can also serve it with cooling sides like celery, cucumbers, or a dollop of ranch on top.
A Cozy Final Note from Clara
The beauty of this high protein buffalo chicken dip isn’t just how good it tastes—it’s what it brings to the table. It’s warm and comforting on a chilly Sunday, quick enough for a last-minute get-together, and packed with the kind of ingredients that make you feel full and good at the same time.
Over the years, it’s become one of those recipes I return to again and again—because it’s real food, easy to share, and always satisfying. Whether you’re making it for game day or meal prep, I hope it becomes one of your staples too.
If you’re looking for more simple, protein-packed comfort food, you can check out my latest creations on Pinterest or get inspired by what I’m cooking each week over on Medium. There’s always something simmering over there, and I’d love to share it with you.
And if you’re craving more real-food recipes with comfort and balance, you’ll find them waiting on my full recipe list. I update it often with what’s happening in my kitchen — the cozy, the practical, and the just-for-fun.
Now go grab that baking dish. You’ve got something delicious coming.
Warmly,