If you’re looking for a warm, cheesy, and irresistible party appetizer, this baked Italian chicken dip is bound to be the star of your table. Tender chicken is bathed in a tangy Italian dressing, mixed with aromatic herbs, and then smothered in cream cheese and mozzarella until it reaches gooey perfection. Serve it bubbling hot with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or crackers, and watch guests gather around for seconds. Whether it’s a casual game night or a festive holiday spread, this dip will disappear fast.
Ingredients for Creamy Baked Italian Chicken Dip
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lb / 900 g)
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2 packages cream cheese, low-fat (8 oz / 226 g each)
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3 cups (340 g) part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
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1 tsp (2 g) dried tarragon
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1 tsp (2 g) dried basil
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2 tsp (6 g) garlic powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 cup (240 ml) Italian salad dressing (such as Olive Garden Signature Italian)
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1/4 cup (60 ml) reserved chicken stock
How to Make Creamy Baked Italian Chicken Dip
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Boil the chicken breasts in a large pot until fully cooked.
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Shred the chicken using two forks, reserving some chicken stock in case the dip needs thinning later.
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Rub the dried basil and tarragon between your palms to release their aroma.
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Combine the shredded chicken with the Italian dressing and reserved stock. Add the herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
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In a large pot over medium heat, warm the chicken mixture. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
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Stir in 2 cups (about 225 g) of mozzarella until fully melted.
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Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish coated with non-stick cooking spray.
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Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup (about 115 g) mozzarella evenly over the top.
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Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, then increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
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Serve immediately with tortilla chips, corn chips, or slices of crusty bread. For a slow cooker version, double the recipe, add part of the mozzarella on top, and heat on low until ready to serve.
The Perfect Dip for Any Occasion
This creamy baked Italian chicken dip is more than just an appetizer — it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing centerpiece for any gathering. The combination of tender chicken, tangy dressing, and rich cheese creates layers of flavor that keep people coming back for more. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday buffet, a sports party, or a cozy family night in, this dip will have everyone asking for the recipe.
