Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Crockpot buffalo chicken chili is a delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. With its bold flavors and nutritious ingredients, it makes meal prepping a breeze while providing a satisfying protein-packed option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – Simply throw all the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
• Flavorful & Satisfying – The blend of spices and creamy textures creates a comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later.
• Versatile Toppings – Customize your bowl with toppings like avocado, scallions, or cheese for added flavor.
• Healthy Ingredients – Packed with lean chicken and beans, this chili is hearty without being heavy.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili requires minimal tools, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowls
• Forks or hand mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker – This essential tool allows you to prepare meals with minimal effort while ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowls – Useful for combining ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Forks or hand mixer – Ideal for shredding the chicken effortlessly after cooking.

Ingredients

To make this flavorful Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili, gather the following 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
• 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: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker

Start by placing all of the ingredients except the cream cheese and cottage cheese into your slow cooker.

Step 2: Cook the Chili

Stir everything together until well combined. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked through.

Step 3: Shred Chicken

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

Step 4: Incorporate Cream Cheese

Add the room temperature cream cheese back into the slow cooker. Whisk until there are no lumps remaining. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and cover again, cooking on low for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in Cottage Cheese

Turn off your slow cooker and quickly stir in the blended cottage cheese until evenly mixed.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your chili, adjusting seasoning as desired. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings! Enjoy your hearty bowl of Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili!

How to Serve Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Crockpot buffalo chicken chili is perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner. It’s versatile and can be served in various ways to please everyone at the table.

Topping Ideas

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture and balances the heat of the chili.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top for extra flavor and richness.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
• Avocado: Sliced or diced avocado gives a creamy element that complements the chili well.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve with crispy tortilla chips for crunch and a fun dipping option.

Serving Suggestions

• Over Rice: Serve the chili over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty meal.
• In a Bowl: A classic way to enjoy it is simply in a bowl, garnished with your favorite toppings.
• With Bread: Pair with crusty bread or rolls to soak up every delicious bite.
• As a Dip: Use it as a dip for veggies or chips during game day gatherings.

How to Perfect Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Getting the most out of your crockpot buffalo chicken chili involves some key techniques. Here are essential tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Spices: Adjust spices like chili powder and cumin to suit your taste. A little more spice can enhance flavor!
• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality canned tomatoes and beans; they significantly impact the overall taste.
• Chicken Cooking Tip: Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be tender but still juicy for shredding.
• Blending Cream Cheese: Blend cream cheese well before adding it back into the chili for a smooth texture without lumps.
• Taste Test: Always taste your chili before serving; adjust seasoning as needed to ensure it’s just right.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Pairing side dishes with crockpot buffalo chicken chili can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cornbread: A sweet, moist cornbread complements the spiciness of the chili perfectly.
2. Coleslaw: A chilled coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the chili.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly seasoned grilled vegetables provide a healthy and colorful side dish.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs enhances your meal while absorbing the flavorful broth.
5. Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with vinaigrette offers freshness and lightness alongside the hearty chili.
6. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread not only tastes great but also makes an excellent vehicle for enjoying leftover chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili experience. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and other ingredients enough can lead to bland chili. Make sure to use ample spices and taste as you go.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can dry it out. Stick to the recommended cooking times to ensure tender, juicy chicken.
• Neglecting the creaminess: Forgetting to add cream cheese or cottage cheese at the right stage can affect the texture. Add them as indicated for a creamy finish.
• Not adjusting for thickness: If your chili turns out too thick, you can thin it out with additional broth. Always have some extra on hand.
• Ignoring leftovers: Letting leftover chili sit out for too long can lead to spoilage. Store it properly after cooling down.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a covered dish, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili:

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just extend the cooking time by an hour.

What toppings go well with Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili?

Some great toppings include avocado slices, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro.

How spicy is this chili?

The spiciness primarily comes from the buffalo sauce. You can adjust it based on your preference by adding less sauce or choosing a milder brand.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I customize my Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili?

Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a gathering, this recipe meets all needs. You can customize it with different toppings or spices according to your taste. Give it a try today!