Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Crockpot buffalo chicken chili is a delightful one-pot meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. This dish combines tender chicken with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients, delivering a comforting and satisfying experience. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply craving a hearty dinner, this chili is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and buffalo sauce creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Healthy Ingredients: With lean chicken, beans, and vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and filling.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, or top it with your favorite garnishes like avocado or cilantro.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week without losing any flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious chili.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The heart of this recipe; it allows for slow cooking, which enhances flavors and tenderizes the chicken perfectly.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures precise measurements for spices and sauces, keeping your flavors balanced.
• Cutting board: A safe surface for prepping ingredients, helping to keep your kitchen organized.

Ingredients

Crockpot buffalo chicken chili is a super simple one pot meal that uses whole ingredients, is packed with flavor, great for meal prepping, and full of protein.

For the Chili 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
• 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

For Creaminess

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

How to Make Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients. Chop any necessary items to ensure everything is ready for the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker

1. Place all ingredients except the cream cheese and cottage cheese into the slow cooker.
2. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Set Cooking Time

Cover with the lid. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

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

Step 5: Mix in Cream Cheese

1. Add cream cheese into the slow cooker.
2. Whisk until smooth with no lumps remaining before adding shredded chicken back in.

Step 6: Final Touches

1. Cover with the lid again and cook on low for another 30 minutes.
2. Turn off the slow cooker and stir in blended cottage cheese.
3. Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed before serving.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your delicious 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 hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some ideas for serving this flavorful meal.

Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle your favorite cheese on top for added richness.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado enhances the chili’s flavors and provides healthy fats.
• Tortilla Chips: Crushed tortilla chips add crunch and are perfect for scooping.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Rice or Quinoa: A side of rice or quinoa makes this meal more filling and nutritious.
• Salad: A light salad can balance the rich flavors of the chili.

How to Perfect Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Making the perfect crockpot buffalo chicken chili is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices enhance the flavors significantly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or use mild options.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Cooking on low for longer allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Beans: Try different beans like black beans or kidney beans for variety.
• Make It Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead of time.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Pairing sides with crockpot buffalo chicken chili can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent side dish options:

1. Cornbread: A classic pairing that complements the chili’s flavors; serve warm with butter.
2. Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the chili’s richness.
3. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with chili for an extra hearty meal.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice and veggies create a colorful side dish that’s fun to eat.
5. Garlic Bread Sticks: These make for excellent dipping tools while adding flavor to your meal.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add nutrition and color to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is a delicious meal, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to add enough spices can lead to bland chili. Always measure your spices accurately and taste as you go.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long will make it dry. Stick to cooking times and check for doneness.
• Not shredding the chicken properly: Leaving large chunks of chicken can affect texture. Use forks or a hand mixer for even shredding.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor quality canned tomatoes or broth can ruin the flavor. Opt for high-quality, fire-roasted tomatoes and low-sodium broth.
• Ignoring storage instructions: Improper storage can affect taste and safety. Follow guidelines closely for refrigerating or freezing leftovers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container since liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring frequently until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring often until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili:

What makes Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili healthier?

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili uses lean chicken breasts and healthy beans, making it a protein-rich option with lower fat content.

Can I customize my Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili?

Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or adjust the spice level by adding extra chili powder or hot sauce.

How long does it take to cook Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili?

Cooking times vary between 4-6 hours on low and 3-4 hours on high, depending on your slow cooker.

What toppings go well with Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili?

Try toppings like shredded cheese, green onions, avocado, or tortilla chips for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is not only easy to make but also full of flavors that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd!