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Easy Creamy BBQ Chicken Dip: Best Party Appetizer

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This Easy Creamy BBQ Chicken Dip is the ultimate party appetizer—creamy, tangy, smoky, and packed with tender chicken. It comes together in under 25 minutes and always disappears fast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Chips, crackers, or veggie sticks for serving

Instructions

  1. Soften the cream cheese by leaving it out for 30 minutes or microwaving for 15-20 seconds on low power.
  2. If using rotisserie chicken, remove skin and shred meat with two forks to get 1 1/2 cups. If cooking fresh, poach two boneless skinless breasts in simmering water for 12-15 minutes, then shred.
  3. Heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir constantly until smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Stir in BBQ sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined and the color turns reddish-brown.
  5. Fold in shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese (about 1/2 cup). Stir gently until chicken is evenly coated and cheese starts to melt. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheddar on top. Cover skillet with a lid or foil and cook for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes for a golden top.
  7. Garnish with diced red onion if using. Serve immediately with chips, crackers, or veggie sticks.

Notes

If the dip seems too thick, stir in a tablespoon of milk or chicken broth. If too thin, let it simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes. The dip can be made ahead and reheated gently. For a slow cooker version, combine all ingredients except topping cheese and cook on low for 1-2 hours, adding remaining cheese during the last 15 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken dip, creamy dip, party appetizer, game day dip, easy appetizer