Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Crockpot buffalo chicken chili is a delightful and hearty meal perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken with bold flavors, making it an excellent choice for game days, family gatherings, or cozy weeknight dinners. With minimal preparation and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a rich, satisfying dish that is easy to make and packed with protein.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work while you relax or take care of other tasks.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices and buffalo sauce creates a deliciously robust flavor profile that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week. It’s perfect for lunches or busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your preferences. The possibilities are endless!
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from chicken and beans, this dish is both filling and nutritious without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious crockpot buffalo chicken chili, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure everything turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Forks or hand mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over time.
• Mixing bowls: These are useful for preparing ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors in your chili.
• Forks or hand mixer: Perfect for shredding chicken after it has cooked, giving you tender pieces that blend well with the chili.

Ingredients

Crockpot buffalo chicken chili requires simple yet wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in one pot.

Main Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 2 – 10 ounce cans fire roasted tomatoes and green chiles
• 2 – 15 ounce cans cannellini beans
• 1/2 cup Franks Buffalo Sauce
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
• 4 oz cottage cheese (blended)

How to Make Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients on the counter. This helps you stay organized as you cook.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

1. Add all of the ingredients (except cream cheese and cottage cheese) into the slow cooker.
2. Stir well to combine everything evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Chili

Cover with the lid and set your slow cooker:
– Cook on low for 4–6 hours
– Or high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

1. Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker.
2. Use two forks or a hand mixer to shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese

Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
1. Add cream cheese and whisk until smooth without lumps.
2. Cover again and cook on low for another 30 minutes.

Step 6: Final Touches

Turn off the slow cooker.
Stir in blended cottage cheese quickly, taste for seasoning, and adjust as desired before serving immediately.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of crockpot buffalo chicken chili!

How to Serve Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a game day gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

With Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Green Onions: Add a burst of freshness and color.
• Shredded Cheese: Melted cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese pairs perfectly with the chili.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop adds creaminess and balances the heat.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices provide rich flavor and texture.

In a Bread Bowl

• Crusty Bread Bowl: Hollow out a small loaf of bread and fill it with hot chili for an edible serving dish.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Cooked Rice: Serve the chili over white or brown rice for a filling meal.
• Quinoa: This protein-packed option complements the chili’s flavors while providing extra nutrients.

As a Dip

• Chili Dip with Tortilla Chips: Serve it alongside crunchy tortilla chips for an easy appetizer.

How to Perfect Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

To make your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Spices: Adjust the spice levels by adding more chili powder or cumin to suit your taste.
• Quality Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for better control over saltiness.
• Creamy Texture: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Shred Chicken Thoroughly: Shredding the chicken well allows it to absorb more flavors from the broth and spices.
• Taste Test Before Serving: Always taste your chili before serving to ensure the seasoning is just right.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cornbread: This classic side is sweet and fluffy, perfect for soaking up chili.
2. Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies add color and nutrition; try roasting carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.
4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy potatoes topped with butter and herbs make a comforting addition.
5. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks brushed with garlic butter complement the spice in the chili.
6. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw offers a cool, tangy balance that pairs wonderfully with spicy flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili even better. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using frozen chicken breasts: Frozen chicken can cook unevenly. Always thaw chicken beforehand for even cooking.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: The flavor may vary based on ingredients. Taste before serving and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Skipping the cream cheese: Cream cheese adds creaminess and richness. Don’t skip it or use a substitute that lacks the same texture.
• Overcooking the chili: Cooking too long can lead to dry chicken. Follow the recommended cooking times closely for tender meat.
• Forgetting toppings: Toppings enhance flavor and texture. Consider adding fresh herbs, avocado slices, or crispy tortilla strips for a delightful finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chili to cool before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezing Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

• Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil; heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili:

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey works great and offers a leaner option while maintaining flavor.

How spicy is this Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili?

The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce used. You can adjust the amount based on your preference.

What toppings work well with this chili?

Great toppings include shredded cheese, green onions, avocado, or sour cream for added richness.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also highly versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust spices to suit your taste. It’s perfect for meal prep and gatherings—give it a try!