If you love bold flavors and crave that irresistible combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory, you are going to absolutely adore this Frito Chili Cheese Dip with Ground Chicken, Turkey Bacon, and Green Onions Recipe. It’s a warm, comforting crowd-pleaser that brings together tender ground chicken, smoky turkey bacon, melty cheddar, and a fresh pop of green onions all in one mouthwatering dip. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just want a snack that feels like a little celebration, this recipe delivers both simplicity and incredible flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but powerful players in bringing this dip to life. Each one adds a unique layer of flavor and texture that makes this dip truly shine, from the creamy base to the crispy, savory toppings.
- Ground Chicken: Cooked and drained to provide a lean protein base that soaks up all the delicious chili spices.
- Cream Cheese: Softened for a rich, creamy texture that binds the dip together beautifully.
- Diced Tomatoes: Drained to add a subtle tang and a hint of freshness without watering down the dip.
- Chili Starter: This canned chili adds that classic spicy-meaty background essential for chili cheese flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded to melt perfectly and give the dip its iconic cheesy stretch and golden topping.
- Turkey Bacon: Cooked and chopped for smoky, crispy bites that elevate the dip’s texture and savoriness.
- Green Onions: Diced to garnish with a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of vibrant green color.
How to Make Frito Chili Cheese Dip with Ground Chicken, Turkey Bacon, and Green Onions Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 375°F. This temperature will ensure your dip bakes evenly, melting all the cheeses perfectly and getting that irresistible bubbling goodness.
Step 2: Mix the Dip Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine your softened cream cheese with the cooked ground chicken, drained diced tomatoes, chili starter, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until you get a creamy, uniform mixture. This blend is where the magic begins—creamy, spicy, and cheesy all in one bowl.
Step 3: Prepare to Bake
Grease a cast iron skillet or any oven-safe dish and spread your dip mixture inside. To lock in extra cheesy flavor, sprinkle some additional cheddar cheese on top before baking. This will form a gorgeous golden crust that makes this dip look as amazing as it tastes.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbling
Pop the skillet into the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you see the cheese bubbling invitingly and the edges start to get a little golden. This step melts everything together and fills your kitchen with that epic cheesy aroma.
Step 5: Add Turkey Bacon Crunch
Once the initial bake is done, evenly sprinkle the cooked, chopped turkey bacon over the top. Then return the skillet to the oven for another 3 to 4 minutes. This second bake crisps the bacon slightly and melds it with the cheese for an irresistible smoky topping.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, scatter the diced green onions across the dip before serving. These add a fresh, vibrant pop of color and a gentle onion bite that perfectly balances the rich, cheesy base. Serve warm with your favorite Frito’s Scoops or tortilla chips for that perfect crunchy scoop.
How to Serve Frito Chili Cheese Dip with Ground Chicken, Turkey Bacon, and Green Onions Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra green onions, a handful of chopped fresh cilantro, or a tiny drizzle of hot sauce can bring additional layers of flavor and freshness that complement the rich dip beautifully. For a touch of creaminess, a dollop of sour cream on the side also works wonders.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs brilliantly with crunchy snacks like Frito’s Scoops, tortilla chips, or even crisp vegetable sticks like celery and bell peppers. For a more filling option, try serving it alongside warm soft pretzels or toasted baguette slices to soak up every cheesy bit.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, try serving the dip in the hollowed-out shell of a sourdough bread bowl. For an individual serving twist, bake the dip in small ramekins and top each with a crispy bacon piece and fresh green onion for party-perfect portions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Frito Chili Cheese Dip with Ground Chicken, Turkey Bacon, and Green Onions Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days and still taste fantastic when reheated.
Freezing
This dip freezes nicely as well. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the dip in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F until hot and bubbly, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat smaller portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through to heat evenly. Add a little extra cheese on top if you want to refresh that melty, golden finish.
FAQs
Can I substitute the ground chicken with another meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even ground beef can be used if you prefer, but ground chicken offers a lighter taste that balances well with the bold cheeses and bacon.
Is turkey bacon necessary, or can I use regular bacon?
You can definitely use regular bacon if you want a richer, smokier flavor. Turkey bacon is a leaner choice with less fat, but both work wonderfully in this recipe.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dip and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add the bacon topping just before the final bake to keep that crispy texture.
What kind of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is ideal for that perfect balance of strong flavor and meltiness. You could also mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little extra zing.
Are there any good alternatives to Frito’s Scoops for serving?
Definitely! Tortilla chips, pita chips, or even crunchy veggie sticks make great dippers if you want a gluten-free or lighter option.
Final Thoughts
This Frito Chili Cheese Dip with Ground Chicken, Turkey Bacon, and Green Onions Recipe is one of those dishes that quickly becomes a go-to for any fun occasion. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to have everyone reaching for more. Once you try it, this cozy, cheesy delight will be a staple at your table and parties alike. So, grab your ingredients and dive into some seriously tasty snacking!
Print
Frito Chili Cheese Dip with Ground Chicken, Turkey Bacon, and Green Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A warm, savory Frito Chili Cheese Dip featuring ground chicken, cream cheese, diced tomatoes, chili starter, cheddar cheese, and turkey bacon, baked to bubbly perfection and topped with green onions. Perfect for parties and casual gatherings, served with Frito’s Scoops chips.
Ingredients
Dip Base
- 1 lb ground chicken (cooked and drained)
- 1 block cream cheese (softened)
- 10 oz can diced tomatoes (drained)
- 15 oz can chili starter
- 2.5 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
Toppings
- 5 strips turkey bacon (cooked and chopped)
- Green onions (diced, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the dip.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cooked and drained ground chicken, diced tomatoes, chili starter, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Transfer to Skillet: Grease a cast iron skillet and transfer the mixture into it. Evenly spread it out and top with additional shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Add Turkey Bacon: Remove the skillet, sprinkle the chopped cooked turkey bacon evenly over the top, and return to the oven for another 3 to 4 minutes to warm the bacon and blend the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with diced green onions. Serve the dip warm with Frito’s Scoops or your preferred tortilla chips.
Notes
- Ensure ground chicken is fully cooked and drained to avoid excess moisture in the dip.
- Use a cast iron skillet or oven-safe dish for even baking and easy serving.
- Adjust chili starter quantity depending on desired spiciness.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground chicken and turkey bacon with plant-based alternatives.
- The dip can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; reheat in the oven before serving.
