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Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip: A Guilt-Free Game-Day Favorite

In this week’s installment of our Seasonal Spoonful’s series, we bring you a crowd-pleasing game-day favorite that’s as indulgent as it is nutritious. This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip delivers all the creamy, spicy goodness you love—without the heavy fats and processed ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party or just craving a comforting snack, this high-protein dip is sure to be a hit.

A Super Bowl Classic with a Healthy Twist

Buffalo chicken dip is a game-day staple, but traditional recipes often rely on heavy cream cheese, ranch dressing, and loads of processed cheese. Our version swaps in Greek yogurt and blended cottage cheese to maintain creaminess while adding a boost of protein.

This dip isn’t just lighter—it also features lean shredded chicken for satisfying protein and Buffalo sauce for that signature kick. Keeping it warm in a slow cooker means you can enjoy it throughout the game without worrying about reheating! We have an oven method as well if you prefer.

A Perfect Winter Comfort Food

Winter is the ideal time for warm, hearty dishes that bring both comfort and nutrition. This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip is the perfect balance of indulgence and nourishment, making it great for cozy indoor gatherings. Lean shredded chicken provides protein to keep you satisfied, while Greek yogurt and cottage cheese offer a creamy texture without unnecessary fat. Plus, the slow cooker method keeps this dip warm and ready to enjoy throughout your Super Bowl party, ensuring that guests can stay toasty inside while cheering on their favorite team!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or baked)
  • ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup blended cottage cheese (for creaminess)
  • ½ cup Buffalo sauce (Frank’s Red Hot recommended)
  • ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)

Directions:

Slow Cooker Method:

  1. Blend for Creaminess (Optional): Blend the cottage cheese in a food processor until smooth.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Add shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, blended cottage cheese, Buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to the slow cooker. Stir well.
  3. Add Cheese: Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and blue cheese.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours or until warm and melted. Stir occasionally.
  5. Top & Serve: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top and keep on WARM for serving. Garnish with green onions.

Oven Method:

For those who prefer a baked version with a crispy, bubbly top, follow these simple steps:

  1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Blend for Creaminess (Optional): Blend the cottage cheese in a food processor until smooth.
  3. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, blended cottage cheese, Buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir well.
  4. Layer in Baking Dish: Transfer mixture into a greased 8×8-inch (or similar-sized) oven-safe dish.
  5. Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and blue cheese (if using) over the top.
  6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
  7. Final Cheese & Garnish: Remove from oven, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, and return to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
  8. Serve Warm: Garnish with green onions and serve immediately with celery, carrot sticks, whole-grain crackers, or baked pita chips

Shortcut Version:

If you have pre-cooked shredded chicken:

  • Mix all ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals until warm and creamy.

Why This is a Perfect Super Bowl Dip:

  • High in Protein: Greek yogurt and cottage cheese provide a creamy base while boosting protein content.
  • Lower in Fat: No heavy cream cheese or processed dressings.
  • Keeps Warm for Hours: Perfect for grazing throughout the game in a slow cooker.
  • Pairs Well with Healthy Dippers: Serve with celery, carrot sticks, whole-grain crackers, or baked pita chips.

We Want to Hear from You!

What’s your favorite healthy take on a classic game-day recipe? Do you have a go-to Super Bowl snack that balances flavor and nutrition? Share your favorite recipes with us—we’d love to feature them in our Seasonal Spoonful’s series!

Want to explore more Seasonal Spoonful’s recipes? Check out previous recipes from our series:

CatchMark Community Product Lead Amy Yonkman joined the CatchMark team in 2021 as an office assistant. She quickly became project manager for the Digital Marketing and Media service, and is now the CatchMark Community Product Lead. Amy’s background includes working in preschool classrooms, hospitality, and customer service.

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