Buffalo chicken dip is a creamy, spicy appetizer made with chicken, hot sauce, cream cheese, and ranch dressing. It’s a popular party food or game day snack. Leftover buffalo chicken dip can easily be stored in the fridge or freezer and enjoyed later. But is it still tasty the next day, or does the texture and flavor deteriorate? Here’s an in-depth look at how long buffalo chicken dip lasts and whether it’s still good after refrigerating or freezing.
Does buffalo chicken dip stay good overnight in the fridge?
Yes, buffalo chicken dip holds up well when properly stored in the refrigerator overnight. The flavors will continue melding and developing, making it even more delicious the next day. Refrigerating prevents the growth of bacteria that could spoiled the dip. Here are some tips for storing buffalo chicken dip overnight:
- Let the dip cool completely before covering it and placing it in the fridge.
- Store in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
- Use a shallow container so the dip cools quickly in the fridge.
- Make sure to refrigerate within 2 hours of making the dip.
- Keep the fridge at 40°F or below.
When stored properly in the fridge, buffalo chicken dip can safely be eaten for 3-5 days. It may start drying out after that time. The texture may become a bit thinner as the dip sits. Give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the creaminess.
How to tell if refrigerated buffalo chicken dip has gone bad
Look for these signs that indicate buffalo chicken dip has spoiled and should be thrown out:
- Mold growth
- Curdled texture
- Sour smell
- Slimy consistency
- Change in color
As long as refrigerated buffalo chicken dip has been stored properly in an airtight container, looks and smells normal, it should be fine to eat the next day.
Does buffalo chicken dip freeze well?
Freezing is a great way to store leftovers of buffalo chicken dip for longer periods. Buffalo chicken dip holds up excellent in the freezer for 2-3 months. The cream cheese helps prevent it from separating. Here are some tips for successfully freezing buffalo chicken dip:
- Chill the dip completely before freezing.
- Freeze in airtight containers, leaving 1⁄2 inch headspace for expansion.
- Smooth down the top to remove air pockets.
- Divide into smaller portions so you can thaw only what you need.
- Label containers with name and date.
- Freeze immediately after preparing.
The texture may become slightly watery after thawing, but simply draining off any liquid and giving it a good stir should restore the creamy consistency.
How to thaw and reheat frozen buffalo chicken dip
There are several methods for safely thawing frozen buffalo chicken dip:
- Refrigerator thawing: For a slower thaw, place the frozen container in the refrigerator. Thaw 24 hours for every 1 inch thickness. The dip will still be chilled when thawed.
- Cold water thaw: For a quicker thaw, place the frozen container in a bowl of cold tap water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Thaw for 1-2 hours.
- Microwave thawing: Thaw the dip in the microwave in 30 second bursts, stirring between. Watch carefully to prevent overheating.
Once thawed, buffalo chicken dip can be reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Here are some tips for the best results:
- Heat on medium-low, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
- Microwave in 30 second increments until hot, stirring between.
- Add a little milk or cream cheese if the consistency is too thick.
- Avoid boiling or overheating as it can curdle the cream cheese.
- Serve immediately once fully heated.
Does the taste change after refrigerating or freezing?
While the texture of buffalo chicken dip may change slightly after refrigerating or freezing, the signature spicy, creamy buffalo flavor remains largely the same. The dip often tastes even better the next day once the ingredients have had time to fully develop. Any subtle taste variations after storing include:
- Enriched flavor as seasonings mingle.
- Slightly thicker texture after thawing.
- Mildly diluted spice if liquid has separated.
Any dip that has fully spoiled would have an obvious sour, rancid, or bitter taste. But buffalo chicken dip that has been properly stored should taste delicious for up to 5 days refrigerated or 2-3 months frozen.
What’s the best way to reheat buffalo chicken dip?
The best reheating method depends on whether the buffalo chicken dip was refrigerated or frozen:
For refrigerated dip:
- Microwave in 30 second bursts until heated through, stirring between.
- Simmer over medium-low heat, stirring frequently.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes if the dip seems too thin.
For frozen dip:
- Thaw completely in the refrigerator or with the cold water method.
- Reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stove or microwave in 30 second increments.
- Avoid boiling or the cream cheese can break down.
Always allow dip to cool for a few minutes before serving so it thickens up. Add a splash of milk or cream if the dip seems too thick after reheating.
How to adjust seasonings in leftover buffalo chicken dip
When reheating leftover buffalo chicken dip, you may want to adjust the seasonings:
- Add more hot sauce for extra spice and tang.
- Stir in lemon juice if the dip tastes flat.
- Sprinkle in more ranch seasoning mix if the flavor is bland.
- Throw in some additional shredded cheese for creaminess.
- Add more salt and pepper if needed.
Start with small amounts and taste, adding more as needed. The goal is to liven up the flavors, without over-seasoning. With just a few tweaks, leftover buffalo chicken can taste just as bold and delicious as the original.
How to change up leftover buffalo chicken dip
Don’t want to eat the buffalo chicken dip the same way twice? Transform leftovers into something new with these creative ideas:
- Stir into cooked pasta or rice for a buffalo chicken noodle or rice bowl.
- Top a baked potato or sweet potato.
- Fill an omelet or scramble with it.
- Spread on sandwiches or wraps.
- Blend with cream or milk for a spicy soup.
- Mix with breadcrumbs and stuff into mushrooms or peppers.
- Layer into a casserole or shepherd’s pie.
You can also switch up the dip’s flavor profile by blending in new ingredients like barbecue sauce, pesto, roasted garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Get creative!
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken dip holds up extremely well for leftovers. When properly stored in the fridge or freezer, it maintains its signature creamy, spicy taste. Refrigerated dip keeps for up to 5 days, while frozen dip will last 2-3 months. Thaw frozen dip in the refrigerator before gently reheating on the stove or in the microwave. Add extra hot sauce, lemon juice, or other seasonings as needed to revive the flavors. Beyond enjoying the dip on its own, transform leftovers into creative new dishes like casseroles, sandwiches, soups and more. So next time you make a batch of buffalo chicken dip for a party, go ahead and whip up extra. The leftovers will be just as delicious!
