Creamy Chicken Caesar Dip
Indulge in the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer with this Creamy Chicken Caesar Dip. This rich and savory dip transforms the beloved flavors of a Caesar salad into a warm, bubbly, and incredibly satisfying dish. Featuring tender shredded chicken enveloped in a luxurious blend of cheeses and tangy Caesar dressing, it's perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
25-30 minutes
Total Time
40-45 minutes
Servings
8-10 servings
Keywords
Why This Recipe Delivers
- An absolute crowd-pleaser that combines classic Caesar flavors with cheesy, warm comfort.
- Incredibly easy to prepare, especially using a store-bought rotisserie chicken.
- Rich, creamy, and savory, making it an irresistible appetizer for any gathering.
- Versatile and can be customized with various dippers like pita bread, crackers, or vegetables.
- Brings a sophisticated twist to a simple hot dip.
Ingredients
- Approximately 400-500g (1/2) cooked rotisserie chicken, skin removed and shredded
- 220g (2 cups) shredded American cheese
- 100g (1 cup) shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
- 225g (8 ounces) cream cheese, at room temperature
- 360ml (1 1/2 cups) prepared Caesar dressing, divided
- 25g (1/4 cup) shredded Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Ensuring the oven is at the correct temperature before baking helps the dip cook evenly and achieve that perfect bubbly texture.
- Prepare an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) deep baking dish by lightly buttering or spraying it with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving.
- Using your hands, shred the cooked chicken into tiny, bite-sized pieces. This allows the chicken to meld seamlessly with the creamy sauce. Distribute the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour 120ml (1/2 cup) of Caesar dressing over the chicken; the dressing will not entirely cover the chicken, so simply scoop and spread it as best as possible.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 220g (2 cups) shredded American cheese, 100g (1 cup) shredded Parmesan cheese, and the 225g (8 ounces) cream cheese (ensuring it's at room temperature for optimal blending). Add the remaining 240ml (1 cup) of Caesar dressing. Using a hand mixer, beat the ingredients until they are fully combined and smooth. Room temperature cream cheese is crucial here for a lump-free, creamy consistency.
- Carefully spoon the cheese mixture over the chicken layer in the baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to gently level the top, creating an even surface for baking.
- Bake the dip for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the edges are bubbly. For an extra crispy, golden crust, you may carefully turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Watch it very closely to prevent burning, as cheese can brown quickly under a broiler.
- Once removed from the oven, immediately garnish the hot dip with the reserved 25g (1/4 cup) shredded Parmesan cheese and the 30ml (2 tablespoons) chopped green onions. The residual heat will slightly melt the fresh Parmesan, enhancing its flavor.
- Serve the Creamy Chicken Caesar Dip immediately with your favorite dippers. Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness!
Tools You’ll Need
- 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) deep baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or spoon for leveling
Essential Success Tips
- Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This is vital for achieving a smooth, lump-free cheese mixture.
- Shred the chicken into small pieces so it integrates well with the creamy sauce and ensures an even bite.
- Keep a close eye on the dip if you use the broiler for a golden crust; cheese can go from perfectly browned to burnt in seconds.
- For the best texture and flavor, serve the dip immediately after baking while it's still warm and gooey.
- Consider using high-quality Caesar dressing, as its flavor will be prominent in the dip.
Professional Cooking Secrets
- To elevate the umami, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of garlic powder to the cheese mixture. This subtly deepens the savory notes without overpowering the Caesar flavor.
- For a bright finish, a tiny squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving can cut through the richness and highlight the classic Caesar tang.
- Experiment with different shredded cheese blends. A mix of provolone or mozzarella with American cheese can introduce a different texture and stretchier pull.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until bubbly.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
- Serve with an assortment of dippers: toasted baguette slices, sturdy crackers, pita bread, tortilla chips, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dip in the baking dish without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking, and you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cook time.
Can I use raw chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
While rotisserie chicken is convenient, you can cook and shred your own chicken breast or thighs. Simply poach or bake chicken until cooked through, then shred before proceeding with the recipe.
What if my dip isn't getting golden brown on top?
If your dip isn't browning sufficiently after the recommended baking time, you can briefly place it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Make sure to watch it continuously, as broilers can brown very quickly.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving, Protein: 25g, Fat: 35g, Carbs: 10g (estimates based on 10 servings and general ingredient values)
Allergy Information
Contains dairy (American cheese, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese) and eggs (typically found in Caesar dressing). Always check your specific Caesar dressing label for other allergens like soy or gluten. For a gluten-free version, ensure your Caesar dressing is certified gluten-free.
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