Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip

If you've ever been to one of our family gatherings, potlucks, or game-day parties, chances are you've seen this hit the table. It's one of our most requested recipes, and once you taste it, you'll understand why.

The secret? Start with smoked chicken. That extra layer of smoke takes a classic buffalo chicken dip to another level.

We season our chicken with Bubba's BBQ Nation Pork Rub, but use your favorite chicken seasoning if that's what you have on hand.

Pro Tip: A whole chicken is usually the most economical option and gives you plenty of meat for recipes throughout the week. If you're short on time, a rotisserie chicken works great too.

Recipe courtesy of Bubba's BBQ Nation

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce

• 1/2 cup ranch dressing

• 1 cup (or more) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• Chicken rub, to taste

TOPPINGS:

• 4–6 oz crumbled blue cheese

• Extra shredded sharp cheddar

• Chopped green onions

• Crushed pork rinds (We prefer Southwind Rinds Sweet Heat!)

Directions:

Prepare Your Smoker - Preheat to 250–275°F.

If you're smoking your own chicken, cook it until done, then pull and shred the meat. Measure out about 2 cups for the dip.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and cheddar cheese until well mixed.

2. Transfer the mixture to a shallow disposable steam pan or any smoker-safe baking dish. A shallow pan allows for more smoke flavor across the entire dip.

3. Top with crushed pork rinds and a little extra cheddar cheese.

4. Smoke for about 20 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.

5. Remove from the smoker and finish with the blue cheese crumbles, chopped green onions, and an extra drizzle of buffalo sauce.

Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, celery sticks, or toasted bread. Enjoy!