Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

There’s something about a cozy evening spent with a warm bowl of Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili that makes everything feel right in the world. I remember the first time I made this recipe; it was one of those chilly winter nights. The aroma of spicy buffalo sauce, tender chicken, and hearty beans simmering away in my kitchen filled the air with comfort. I could hardly contain my excitement as I gathered the ingredients, knowing I was in for a treat. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re coming in from the cold after a long day or hosting friends for game day, this chili hits the spot. Plus, the best part is that it cooks slowly in the crockpot, giving you plenty of time to relax or tackle other tasks while it does its thing. I can’t wait to share this with you!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
6 hr 10 mins
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
360 mins
Difficulty:
Hard
Calories:
400 kcal
Protein:
30 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free
Fat:
20 g
Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Slow Cooker, Cutting Board

Why This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili Is So Good

It’s Incredibly Easy

What I love most about Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is its straightforwardness. With minimal effort, you can prepare a meal that feels like a culinary triumph. Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work for you. This means you can go about your day, and come home to a deliciously warm meal without being tied to the kitchen.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This chili is a game-changer for meal prep enthusiasts. The flavors deepen and meld together beautifully when stored, making leftovers even more delicious. It’s perfect for busy weeks when you want to grab a bowl of something hearty and satisfying without starting from scratch each day.

Customizable to Your Liking

Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less buffalo sauce or even throw in some jalapeños for an extra kick. Want to add more veggies? Toss in some chopped peppers or corn. This chili can be tailored to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Comforting and Satisfying

There’s something inherently comforting about a bowl of chili. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cream cheese, and zesty spices creates a warm embrace for your tastebuds. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether served at a casual dinner with family or a lively gathering with friends.

Wallet-Friendly

In today’s economy, it’s great to find meals that are both delicious and budget-conscious. Ingredients like chicken, beans, and canned tomatoes are affordable and nutritious. This means you can enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a snowy winter night or a summer barbecue, Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is fitting for any occasion. Serve it as a main dish, or let it shine as a game-day appetizer. The options are endless, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Essential Ingredients for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

The ingredients for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili come together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Each component plays a critical role in building layers of taste, from the savory depth of chicken broth to the spicy zing of buffalo sauce. Let’s explore these essential ingredients that make this dish a standout.

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, about 3 breasts: The star of the show, providing the protein and absorbing all those delicious flavors.
  • ¼ cup butter, cubed: Adds richness and helps meld the spices and ingredients together, creating a smooth base.
  • ⅔ cup buffalo sauce: The bold flavor that gives this chili its signature kick. Adjust to your taste for more or less heat.
  • 2 cups chicken broth: This liquid gold helps keep everything moist and flavorful while adding depth to the chili.
  • ½ cup diced onion, about ½ small onion: Adds sweetness and aroma, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire roasted diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and a smoky flavor that complements the spices.
  • 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained: Provides a touch of sweetness and texture, balancing the spiciness of the chili.
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained: Adds heartiness and a creamy texture, making the chili more filling.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must-have flavor booster that adds depth without overpowering.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin: Offers a warm, earthy note that enhances the dish’s overall profile.
  • 1 teaspoon dill: Gives a unique flavor twist that pairs wonderfully with the other spices.
  • 1 teaspoon oregano: Adds a hint of herby flavor that is essential in chili.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings color and a subtle smokiness to the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making them pop.
  • ½ teaspoon pepper: A bit of heat to round out the seasoning and enhance taste.
  • 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature: This transforms your chili into a creamy delight, enriching the texture and taste.

Making This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Making Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is a simple and enjoyable process, perfect for anyone regardless of their cooking experience. With just a few steps, you’ll create a dish that’s sure to impress. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Start by taking your butter and placing it in the bottom of your crockpot. The butter will melt and create a deliciously rich base for your chili.

  2. Next, add the chicken breasts on top of the melted butter. It’s important to use boneless and skinless chicken for this recipe, as it will shred beautifully once cooked.

  3. Now, pour in the buffalo sauce followed by the chicken broth. This combination will ensure the chicken cooks perfectly and infuses with that zesty flavor.

  4. Add the diced onion, fire roasted tomatoes, drained corn, and drained white beans. Each ingredient adds depth and texture to your chili.

  5. Sprinkle the garlic powder, cumin, dill, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper over the top. This seasoning mix is what takes the flavor to the next level!

  6. Using a wooden spoon, stir everything together until well combined. Make sure the chicken is coated in all the spices and sauces.

  7. Cover the crockpot with its lid, and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender enough to shred easily.

  8. When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. The chicken will be incredibly tender!

  9. Add the shredded chicken back into the crockpot along with the cream cheese. Cooking it for another 8 to 10 minutes will allow the cheese to melt and blend with the chili.

  10. Finally, give everything a good stir to combine the cream cheese into the chili, creating a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. Serve warm and garnish with your favorite toppings such as chopped green onions or crumbled blue cheese.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Adjusting Spice Level: You can control the heat by varying the amount of buffalo sauce you use. Start with less if you’re unsure, and add more to taste.
  • Choosing the Right Chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts results in a tender and easy-to-shred texture.
  • Cooking on Low vs. High: Cooking on low for longer yields a more flavorful dish, while high is quicker but may not develop the same depth of flavor.
  • Storage: This chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for leftovers.
  • Freezing: You can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.

Tips for Success

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

To make your cooking experience smoother, here are some essential tips to ensure your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili turns out perfectly:

  • Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chop and measure all your ingredients in advance to make the cooking process seamless.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and quality chicken for the best flavor.
  • Check for Doneness: Make sure the chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temperature) before shredding.
  • Garnish for Flavor: Top your chili with fresh ingredients like green onions, cilantro, or sour cream for added freshness.
  • Experiment with Toppings: Crumbled cheese, avocado, or tortilla chips can elevate your chili experience.

Serving Options for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

When it comes to serving Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili, there are endless possibilities that can enhance your meal. Here are some ideas:

  • With Rice: Serve your chili over a bed of fluffy rice for a filling meal that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
  • Tortilla Chips: Pair with crispy tortilla chips for a fun and crunchy side that balances the chili’s creaminess.
  • As a Dip: Use it as a dip for your favorite veggies or chips during game day gatherings.
  • On a Baked Potato: Top a baked potato with this chili for a hearty and comforting dish.
  • With Salad: A side salad pairs well, adding freshness to cut through the richness of the chili.
  • For Meal Prep: Portion out servings into containers for easy reheating during the week—perfect for busy schedules!
  • Garnish Generously: Don’t forget to add garnishes like green onions or cheese to elevate each bowl.

FAQ

Absolutely! In fact, making Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights.

The spiciness of Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili can be adjusted easily based on your preferences. The main source of heat comes from the buffalo sauce. If you like it milder, you can use less sauce or mix in some non-spicy hot sauce. Conversely, if you love heat, feel free to add extra sauce or even chopped jalapeños to kick it up a notch!

There are so many delicious toppings you can use for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili. Some popular options include crumbled blue cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream, or even avocado slices. These toppings add extra flavor and texture, making your chili even more enjoyable.

Yes, you can freeze leftover Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. I encourage you to try making it for your next gathering or cozy night in. You won’t regret it!

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Craving something cozy? Try this Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili for the ultimate comforting meal. With tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and creamy cheese, it's an easy weeknight dinner that will satisfy your comfort food cravings. Make it tonight!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Chef's Knife
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Slow Cooker
  • Cutting Board

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts about 3 breasts
  • ¼ cup butter cubed
  • cup buffalo sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup diced onion about ½ small onion
  • 1 14.5-ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1 15-ounce can corn drained
  • 2 15-ounce cans white beans drained
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dill
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 8-ounce package cream cheese room temperature

Instructions
 

  • Start by taking your butter and placing it in the bottom of your crockpot. The butter will melt and create a deliciously rich base for your chili.
  • Next, add the chicken breasts on top of the melted butter. It’s important to use boneless and skinless chicken for this recipe, as it will shred beautifully once cooked.
  • Now, pour in the buffalo sauce followed by the chicken broth. This combination will ensure the chicken cooks perfectly and infuses with that zesty flavor.
  • Add the diced onion, fire roasted tomatoes, drained corn, and drained white beans. Each ingredient adds depth and texture to your chili.
  • Sprinkle the garlic powder, cumin, dill, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper over the top. This seasoning mix is what takes the flavor to the next level!
  • Using a wooden spoon, stir everything together until well combined. Make sure the chicken is coated in all the spices and sauces.
  • Cover the crockpot with its lid, and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender enough to shred easily.
  • When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. The chicken will be incredibly tender!
  • Add the shredded chicken back into the crockpot along with the cream cheese. Cooking it for another 8 to 10 minutes will allow the cheese to melt and blend with the chili.
  • Finally, give everything a good stir to combine the cream cheese into the chili, creating a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. Serve warm and garnish with your favorite toppings such as chopped green onions or crumbled blue cheese.

Notes

To make your cooking experience smoother, here are some essential tips to ensure your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili turns out perfectly:
  • Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chop and measure all your ingredients in advance to make the cooking process seamless.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and quality chicken for the best flavor.
  • Check for Doneness: Make sure the chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temperature) before shredding.
  • Garnish for Flavor: Top your chili with fresh ingredients like green onions, cilantro, or sour cream for added freshness.
  • Experiment with Toppings: Crumbled cheese, avocado, or tortilla chips can elevate your chili experience.
Keyword Buffalo Chicken Chili Recipe, Comfort Food Chili, Crockpot Chicken Chili, Easy Chili Recipe

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