Buffalo Chicken Doritos Bake

Name: Buffalo Chicken Doritos Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 4 cups Doritos (any flavor); 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love creating dishes that combine comfort food with a kick of flavor, and this Buffalo Chicken Doritos Bake is no exception. The combination of spicy buffalo chicken, creamy cheese, and crunchy Doritos makes for an indulgent meal that satisfies any craving. It’s perfect for game nights or casual dinners at home, and I often find myself revisiting this recipe when I need something quick and delicious. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on the bold flavors and satisfying textures!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:42:28.890Z

Every time I make this Buffalo Chicken Doritos Bake, I’m reminded of how much joy food can bring to our gatherings. The layers of crunchy Doritos with spicy buffalo chicken create a mouthwatering combination that everyone loves. I’ve experimented with different toppings and fillings, but this version has become my go-to. I recommend using rotisserie chicken for a quick prep!

One thing I’ve learned is not to skimp on the cheese—it's what brings everything together! I love using a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella for both flavor and that gooey texture. The contrast between the melted cheese and crunchy chips is simply irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy buffalo flavor pairs perfectly with crunchy Doritos
Creamy, cheesy goodness melts in your mouth
Quick to prepare and perfect for gatherings

The Secret to Perfectly Shredded Chicken

For this Buffalo Chicken Doritos Bake, using well-cooked, tender chicken is crucial. I recommend cooking your chicken in a slow cooker or instant pot for a fall-apart texture. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Just make sure to shred it into bite-sized pieces to ensure even distribution of flavors in every bite.

When mixing the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the chicken to fully absorb the tangy, robust flavors of the sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Opt for a medium-level buffalo sauce initially, so you can adjust the heat level according to your preference later.

Layering for the Best Crunch

Layering the Doritos properly is essential for achieving that perfect crunch. I usually break some Doritos into smaller pieces to fill in the gaps before adding the chicken mixture. This ensures every forkful has a satisfying texture. Additionally, the Doritos will soak up some of the buffalo sauce, creating a delicious flavor contrast with the creamy cheese on top.

For a twist, consider using flavored Doritos like Spicy Nacho or Cool Ranch. They can add an unexpected depth of flavor! Just remember to balance the toppings accordingly, as some flavors can be stronger than others.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4 cups Doritos (any flavor)
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Buffalo Chicken Doritos Bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and half of each cheese type. Mix well until combined.

Layer the Dish

In a baking dish, spread half of the Doritos as the bottom layer. Pour the buffalo chicken mixture on top and spread evenly. Top with the remaining Doritos and sprinkle the other half of the cheese.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot.

Pro Tips

For a creamier texture, you can add more cream cheese or include a layer of ranch dressing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Buffalo Chicken Doritos Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave for about one minute on high power, or until heated through. If you prefer the oven, cover it with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes for crispy edges without drying out the dish.

If you’re looking to make it ahead, consider assembling the dish without baking it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This way, the flavors meld beautifully, making it even better when you're ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve the Buffalo Chicken Doritos Bake alongside a fresh green salad. The crunch of the salad balances the richness of the bake perfectly. For extra kick, consider a side of celery sticks with ranch or blue cheese dressing, echoing the traditional buffalo chicken experience.

This dish also works well as a party appetizer. Cut it into small squares and serve it with toothpicks, allowing guests to pick up the bites easily. A little drizzle of ranch dressing or extra buffalo sauce on the side for dipping can elevate the flavor experience even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor.

→ What can I substitute for Doritos?

You can use tortilla chips or your favorite brand of nacho chips that you enjoy.

→ How can I make it less spicy?

You can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix in some ranch dressing to tone down the heat.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish a day ahead and bake it right before serving.