Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is a delightful and hearty meal, perfect for game days, family gatherings, or cozy nights in. This one-pot wonder is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. With tender chicken and a spicy kick from buffalo sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite. Plus, it’s great for meal prepping, making it suitable for busy weeks ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just add ingredients to the crockpot and let it do the work!
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and buffalo sauce creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or served with toppings like cheese or avocado.
• Healthy Option: High in protein and made with wholesome ingredients.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It cooks your chili evenly and allows for hands-free preparation.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface makes chopping ingredients quick and safe.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precision when cutting vegetables or shredding chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for blending ingredients like cottage cheese before adding them to the slow cooker.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Base

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

For the Vegetables and Beans

• 1 cup frozen corn
• 2 – 10 ounce cans fire roasted tomatoes and green chiles
• 2 – 15 ounce cans cannellini beans

For Flavoring

• 1/2 cup Frank’s Buffalo Sauce
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth

For Creaminess

• 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
• 4 oz cottage cheese (blended)

How to Make Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Add all of the other ingredients (in order) except the cream cheese and cottage cheese to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Cook the Chili

Stir everything together then cover with the lid. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken breasts are cooked through.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

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

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Add the cream cheese into the slow cooker and whisk it in until there are no lumps remaining. Return the shredded chicken back into the pot.

Step 5: Final Touches

Cover with the lid again and cook on low for another 30 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Turn off the slow cooker and quickly stir in blended cottage cheese. Taste for seasoning and adjust as desired before serving immediately. Enjoy!

This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table!

How to Serve Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Crockpot buffalo chicken chili is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or add some flair, there are plenty of options to elevate your meal.

Toppings

• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture and balances the heat.
• Chopped green onions: Fresh green onions bring a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
• Shredded cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top for extra richness and flavor.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado enhances the dish and adds healthy fats.
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro offers a fresh taste that complements the chili well.

Serving Bowls

• Bread bowls: Hollowed-out bread rolls make for fun and edible serving dishes.
• Rice bowls: Serve the chili over cooked rice for a filling meal.
• Salad bowls: Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

To ensure your crockpot buffalo chicken chili turns out amazing every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices enhance flavor significantly compared to dried or canned alternatives.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of chili powder or buffalo sauce to suit your heat preference.
• Shred chicken properly: For even distribution, shred the chicken into small pieces before mixing it back into the chili.
• Let it sit: Allowing the chili to rest after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with your crockpot buffalo chicken chili can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the spicy flavors of the chili perfectly. Consider adding jalapeños for an extra kick!
2. Guacamole and chips: The creamy guacamole paired with crunchy tortilla chips makes for a delightful snack alongside your chili.
3. Coleslaw: A light and crunchy coleslaw contrasts nicely with the rich chili, adding freshness to your plate.
4. Baked potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a hearty base, perfect for spooning over chili.
5. Grilled vegetables: Charred veggies provide added nutrition and flavor; zucchini and bell peppers work well grilled.
6. Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb option, serve the chili over cauliflower rice for added texture without carbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Crockpot buffalo chicken chili is an easy dish, but small errors can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Missing Ingredients: Not including key ingredients like the spices or chicken broth can diminish flavor. Always double-check your ingredient list before cooking.
• Overcooking Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can dry it out. Stick to the recommended cooking times and check for doneness.
• Not Shredding Chicken Properly: Leaving large chunks of chicken can affect the texture. Ensure you shred the chicken well for better integration with the chili.
• Skipping Cream Cheese: Omitting cream cheese will make your chili less creamy. Incorporate it for a rich, smooth finish.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can result in bland chili. Always taste before serving and adjust spices as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for best freshness.
• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.

Freezing Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until steaming, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crockpot buffalo chicken chili that might help you:

What can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute turkey or beef if you prefer. Both will give a different flavor profile while still maintaining protein content.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Increase the amount of Frank’s Buffalo Sauce or add jalapeños for extra heat.

How do I serve Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili?

Serve it topped with your favorite additions like diced green onions, shredded cheese, or avocado slices for added flavor and texture.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with lean protein from chicken and includes vegetables like corn and tomatoes, making it a nutritious option.

Can I customize the toppings?

Definitely! You can use anything from sour cream to tortilla chips or even fresh herbs for garnish. Customize it according to your taste!

Final Thoughts

Crockpot buffalo chicken chili is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients and toppings based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. It’s perfect for meal prep or serving at gatherings—try it out today!