EXPERT TIPS AND SUBSTITUTIONS

• Cheese Tips: The cream cheese needs to be at room temperature for ideal blending. Regular or light cream cheese both work great as well. Packaged pre-shredded or freshly shredded cheeses both work in this dish. However, pre-shredded cheese has additives that help keep it from clumping. This does impact its ability to melt and meld with the other ingredients as well.
• Adjusting the Spice: If you prefer a milder dip, use less buffalo sauce or opt for a milder version. You can also increase the ranch dressing to mellow out the heat. Add hot sauce, spicy buffalo sauce, spicy ranch, cayenne pepper, chopped fresh jalapeños or diced canned jalapeños if you want a spicier dip.
• Make it Healthier: Use light cream cheese, light ranch dressing, and reduced-fat cheeses to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor.
• Add Some Extra Flavor: Stir in some minced garlic or onion powder for added depth. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also enhance the umami flavors.
• Substitute the Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken, or drained, canned chicken for easy prep. You can also substitute cooked turkey or even shredded pork for a different twist.
• Make it Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for a plant-based protein like shredded jackfruit or chickpeas.
• Garnish Options: This dip is beautiful with sliced green onions, fresh or canned jalapeños, or crumbled blue cheese on top. Warning: blue cheese is loved or hated, so you might want to check with guests for preferences. Crumbled, cooked bacon on top adds a great smoky flavor and textural addition!