Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili Recipe with Bold and Spicy Flavors

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Chili

If you’re craving a meal that’s simple yet full of excitement, this Buffalo Chicken Chili is just the thing. It’s perfect for busy days when you want big flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine coming home to a pot of warmth that combines spicy tang with hearty ingredients.

One reason you’ll enjoy it is the ease of getting it ready. With only about 20 minutes of prep and the slow cooker doing the work, this dish fits into anyone’s schedule. Plus, it packs health benefits like high protein from chicken and fiber from beans, making it a smart choice for meals that keep you satisfied.

Don’t forget its versatility for different tastes and diets. You can tweak the spice level or swap ingredients to make it your own. This Buffalo Chicken Chili brings a bold, satisfying twist that sets it apart from regular chilis, ideal for family dinners or gatherings.

Jump To

• 1. Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Chili
• 2. Essential Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Chili
• 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Chili: Step-by-Step Guide
• 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Buffalo Chicken Chili
• 5. Mastering Buffalo Chicken Chili: Advanced Tips and Variations
• 6. How to Store Buffalo Chicken Chili: Best Practices
• 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Chicken Chili
• 8. Buffalo Chicken Chili

Essential Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Chili

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Buffalo Chicken Chili shine. Each one plays a role in creating that spicy, creamy blend you’ll love. Let’s break down the list to ensure you have everything ready.

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 15 oz canned white navy beans, drained and rinsed
• 14.5 oz can fire roasted tomatoes, drained
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (start with 1/4 cup and add more if needed)
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried cilantro
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 8 oz cream cheese
• Blue cheese crumbles (optional topping)

This list covers all you need for a full batch. For a healthier take, check out tips on why ground chicken makes a great choice. Remember, these measurements help balance the flavors just right.

How to Prepare the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Chili: Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s walk through making this Buffalo Chicken Chili step by step. It’s straightforward, even if you’re new to cooking. Start by getting your ingredients lined up for smooth sailing.

First, brown 1 pound of ground chicken in a pan until it’s fully cooked. This only takes a few minutes and adds great flavor. Then, transfer it to your slow cooker for the next part.

Next, add the rest of the ingredients except for the 8 oz cream cheese and blue cheese crumbles. That means tossing in the 15 oz canned white navy beans, 14.5 oz fire roasted tomatoes, 2 cups chicken broth, 1/4 to 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce, 1 cup frozen corn kernels, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon celery salt, 1/2 teaspoon dried cilantro, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir everything together to mix well.

Place the 8 oz block of cream cheese on top, cover the slow cooker, and set it to cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours. Halfway through, give it a stir if you can, but it’s mostly hands-off from here.

Final Touches

Once done, stir to blend in the cream cheese for that creamy texture. Taste and add more buffalo wing sauce if you want extra heat. Serve it up with blue cheese crumbles on top for a fun twist. For more chicken ideas, check out this loaded baked potato chicken casserole recipe on the site.

Keep in mind, the total time is about 4 hours and 20 minutes on high or 8 hours and 20 minutes on low, including prep. It’s a recipe that rewards patience with amazing results.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Buffalo Chicken Chili

Everyone has different needs, so tweaking this Buffalo Chicken Chili is easy. Whether it’s for health reasons or taste, small changes can make a big difference.

• Swap the 1 pound ground chicken for shredded turkey or even tofu if you’re going plant-based.
• Use different beans like black beans instead of the 15 oz canned white navy beans for variety.
• Adjust the 1/4 to 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce to make it milder or spicier.

These swaps help keep the dish flexible. For instance, using raw chicken tenderloins? Just add them directly and shred later, as mentioned in the tips.

As one expert notes:

The beauty of recipes like this is how they adapt to your lifestyle while keeping that bold flavor intact.

This keeps things fresh and exciting.

Mastering Buffalo Chicken Chili: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, try leveling up your Buffalo Chicken Chili. Little tricks can turn a good meal into a great one. For example, toasting spices before adding them deepens the taste.

Consider variations like adding maple syrup for a sweet kick or using chipotle for smokiness. This chili is heartier than soup, perfect for parties, as the recipe notes. If you’re batch-cooking, make it ahead but skip freezing due to the cream cheese.

Pro Tips

Here are some ways to refine it: Use the 14.5 oz fire roasted tomatoes for depth, or swap for diced if you prefer less heat. For more inspiration, explore this chicken spinach and mushroom bake for complementary dishes.

Remember, simmering low and slow, like the 4 to 8 hours in the directions, helps flavors meld. It’s great for tailgates or potlucks, just as suggested.

How to Store Buffalo Chicken Chili: Best Practices

Storing your Buffalo Chicken Chili right keeps it tasty for later. Cool it quickly after cooking to avoid any issues. Put it in airtight containers and pop it in the fridge.

It lasts 3-4 days when chilled, but if you’ve added cream cheese, eat it sooner. For freezing, go ahead, but know the texture might change stir in fresh elements when reheating.

Storage Method	Duration	Tips
Refrigeration	3-4 days	Cool within 1 hour and use shallow containers
Freezing	Up to 3 months	Leave headspace and label containers

The recipe notes it might not freeze well due to cream cheese, so plan accordingly.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Chicken Chili

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