Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip: What I'm Taking to Tuscaloosa This Weekend

Game Day is almost here, and if you're anything like me, you've already thought more about the tailgate spread than the actual game plan. Bama and FSU always bring a good crowd, which means good food is non-negotiable. So here's what's riding with me to Tuscaloosa this weekend: Smoked Buffalo Chicken Dip.

I've made this one for years. It's the dish that disappears first, it travels well, and it's stupid easy to pull off even if you're setting up in a parking lot three hours before kickoff. If you haven't made it before, this is the weekend to start.

What you need:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1 8oz package of cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
• Tortilla chips, pita, or naan for dipping

How I make it:

First thing, get the fire going. I use my Grill Torch to light the Big Green Egg since it's fast and there's zero lighter fluid taste to worry about. Preheat to 350°F and set up for direct heat.

Season the chicken thighs with whatever rub you've got on hand and throw them on direct heat until they hit 165°F internal. Don't rush this part, a good thermometer takes all the guesswork out of it.

Once the chicken's done, let it cool enough to handle and chop it up. Then switch the Egg over to indirect cooking with a water pan on top of the convector plate.

Mix the chopped chicken with the cream cheese, cheddar, ranch, and buffalo sauce until it's all combined. Pour it into a cast iron skillet and top with a little extra fresh cheddar because there's no such thing as too much cheese on a dip.

Put the skillet back on the Egg and let it smoke on indirect heat for 30 to 40 minutes, until it's bubbly and the top's got a little color on it.

Pull it off, grab a bag of tortilla chips, and you've got a dip that'll be gone before the second quarter.

Roll Tide, Go Noles or whatever team you're pulling for this weekend. Either way, eat well.

Grill Torch $37.99	Grill Tables $469	Grill Covers $59.99	B.B. Prime $419	Ash Baskets $79.99