Introduction:
Looking for a creamy, savory, and slightly sweet dip to be the star of your next gathering? Enter the Cheesy BBQ Chicken Dip—a delightful blend of shredded chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and loads of cheesy goodness. This dip is not just a party favorite; it’s an experience in every bite.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Tortilla chips or sliced baguette (for serving)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and BBQ sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in the shredded chicken, red onion, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, ensuring everything gets a good coating of the sauce mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Remove from oven and garnish with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro, if using.
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips or sliced baguette for dipping.
Notes:
- You can add some heat to the dip by mixing in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a few tablespoons of smoked gouda cheese.
- If you’re a fan of blue cheese, crumble some on top for an added layer of depth.
FAQ:
- Can I prepare this dip in advance?
- Yes! You can assemble the dip (without baking) and refrigerate it for up to a day. When you’re ready, simply bake until hot and bubbly.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Can this dip be made vegetarian?
- Definitely. Simply omit the chicken and add in some beans (like black or pinto) and corn for a vegetarian version.