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Nashville Hot Chicken Dip Recipe Easy Spicy Crispy Chicken Appetizer

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A creamy, cheesy dip featuring spicy crispy Nashville hot chicken bites, perfect for game nights, potlucks, and casual gatherings. This dip balances smoky heat with creamy cheese for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (thighs recommended)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt as a substitute)
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for tangier taste)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (light mayo optional)
  • 2 tbsp Nashville hot sauce or cayenne-based hot sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Chopped green onions or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to create the seasoned flour coating.
  2. Dip chicken pieces in buttermilk, then dredge in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to coat. Set aside for 10 minutes.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 2 inches depth over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  4. Fry chicken pieces in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  5. In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add shredded cheddar, sour cream, mayonnaise, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
  6. Fold most of the crispy chicken into the dip base, reserving some for topping. Spread mixture evenly in a baking dish.
  7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden.
  8. Garnish with remaining crispy chicken and chopped green onions. Serve hot with crackers, celery sticks, or toasted bread slices.

Notes

Keep oil temperature steady at 350°F to ensure crispy chicken without burning. Soften cream cheese well before mixing for smooth texture. Reserve some crispy chicken for topping to maintain texture contrast. If dip looks dry after baking, drizzle with hot sauce. Can bake or air-fry chicken for a healthier alternative. Adjust cayenne and hot sauce to control spice level.

Nutrition

Keywords: Nashville hot chicken dip, spicy chicken dip, creamy chicken dip, game day appetizer, Southern comfort food, crispy chicken dip