Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Have you ever craved a dish that combines the heartiness of chili with the bold flavors of buffalo sauce? Look no further than this Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili. This recipe is perfect for cozy nights in, game day gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to throw together and lets your slow cooker do all the hard work. Let’s dive into why this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Reasons to Love Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili. First and foremost, it’s packed with flavor and comfort, making it an instant hit. The combination of tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and savory spices creates a bowl of chili that’s bold and satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily adjust the heat level to suit your taste buds, or even switch up the toppings for a personalized touch.

This chili is also a wonderful make-ahead meal. Simply prepare it in the morning, set your crockpot, and come home to a delicious aroma and a ready-to-eat dinner. And, as if that isn’t enough, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for a wide range of dietary needs.

What Goes In

To create this delicious Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 3 breasts)
• 1 cup butter, cubed
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup diced onion (about 1 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
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature

These ingredients come together to create a rich and creamy chili that is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

Cook’s Kit

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Crockpot: A reliable slow cooker is key for this recipe.
• Cutting board and knife: For dicing onions and cubing the butter.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best flavor.
• Large spoon: For stirring the ingredients together.
• Serving bowls: To dish out the finished chili.

With these tools in hand, you’re ready to create a delicious Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili that will impress everyone at the table.

Cooking Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili: The Process

Now that you have everything you need, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a perfectly delicious chili.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by dicing your onion and cubing the butter. This will help everything melt and mix together smoothly in the crockpot.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

In your slow cooker, place the chicken breasts at the bottom. Add the diced onion, cubed butter, and pour the buffalo sauce over the top.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Tomatoes

Next, pour in the chicken broth and add the fire roasted diced tomatoes. The broth helps create a flavorful base for your chili.

Step 4: Mix in the Veggies and Beans

Add the drained corn and the white beans to the crockpot. These ingredients provide heartiness and texture to the chili.

Step 5: Season It Up

Sprinkle in the garlic powder, cumin, dill, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer you let it sit, the more the flavors will meld together.

Step 7: Shred the Chicken and Add Cream Cheese

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return them to the pot. Add the room-temperature cream cheese and stir until melted and well combined. This will give your chili a creamy consistency that takes it to the next level.

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are some flavor-forward alternatives to consider:

• For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Substitute turkey or beef for the chicken for a different protein profile.
• Try adding different beans like black beans or kidney beans for variety.
• Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for garnish.

These tweaks can help you customize your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili to your taste.

Cook’s Commentary

This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is truly a crowd-pleaser! It offers a wonderful balance of flavors that can be adjusted based on your preferences. For those who love a bit of heat, don’t be afraid to amp up the buffalo sauce. If you prefer a milder chili, simply reduce the amount of sauce or mix in some sour cream to balance it out.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as is, or load it up with toppings such as shredded cheese, avocado, or crumbled blue cheese for that classic buffalo flavor. Perfect for game day or a casual family dinner!

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Leftovers of this Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it a great option for meal prep!

If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze the chili. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours, and ensure they are fully cooked through before shredding.

What can I serve with this chili?

This chili pairs well with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it over rice for a more filling meal.

How spicy is this chili?

The spice level can vary based on the buffalo sauce you use. For a milder chili, opt for a less spicy sauce or reduce the amount of sauce added.

Can I make this chili in advance?

Absolutely! This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is perfect for meal prep. You can make it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge.

Healthy-ish Favorites

If you’re looking for other healthy recipes to try, check out these delicious options:

• Pumpkin Black Bean Chili
• Garlic Herb Butter Crockpot Pot Roast
• Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe and all the details, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is waiting to fill your kitchen with delightful aromas. Don’t forget to get creative with your toppings and enjoy the process of making this comforting dish. Happy cooking!