Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is the ultimate comfort food that brings together a medley of flavors in an easy, one-pot meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this dish is not only filling but also packed with protein and nutrients. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a crowd-pleaser, this chili will surely satisfy your cravings with its spicy kick and hearty texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Just toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Flavor Packed: With spices like chili powder and ground cumin, every bite bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course, or serve it as a hearty side dish at gatherings.
• Healthy Option: Low in fat and high in protein, this chili is a great choice for health-conscious eaters.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools to make cooking easier. A few handy kitchen gadgets can streamline the process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Forks (for shredding chicken)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the heart of the recipe. It allows for slow cooking, which enhances flavors while you go about your day.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining your ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker, ensuring an even blend.
• Whisk: Great for smoothly incorporating cream cheese into your chili without lumps.

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.

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 Frank’s 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 Slow Cooker

Add all of the other ingredients (in order) except the cream cheese and cottage cheese to the slow cooker. Stir everything together then cover with the lid.

Step 2: Cook the Chili

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 and use two forks or a hand mixer to shred it. Add the cream cheese into the slow cooker and whisk it in until there are no lumps.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on low for another 30 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cottage Cheese

Turn off the slow cooker and quickly stir in the blended cottage cheese.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste for seasoning and adjust as desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

With these clear steps, you’ll have a delicious Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili ready to delight your taste buds!

How to Serve Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Crockpot buffalo chicken chili is a delicious and versatile dish that can be customized in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh, crunchy bite.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances the heat.
• Shredded Cheese: Melted cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack enhances flavor and texture.

Pair with Crunchy Sides

• Tortilla Chips: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for dipping or as a base for a nacho-style meal.
• Cornbread: The sweet, soft texture of cornbread pairs perfectly with the spicy chili.
• Celery Sticks: Fresh celery sticks add a refreshing crunch and balance the dish’s richness.

Serve in Unique Ways

• Stuffed Peppers: Use bell peppers as bowls; fill them with chili for an eye-catching presentation.
• Chili Bowls: Serve in bread bowls for a fun and edible way to enjoy the chili.

How to Perfect Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

To create the best crockpot buffalo chicken chili, follow these simple tips for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

• Bold Flavors: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste—add more chili powder or hot sauce if you like it spicier.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Incorporating fresh vegetables can enhance flavor. Consider adding diced bell peppers or fresh jalapeños.
• Chicken Quality Matters: Choose high-quality chicken breasts for better texture and flavor; organic options are great if available.
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the chili to cook longer on low heat helps flavors meld together beautifully. Aim for at least 6 hours if possible.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Pairing your crockpot buffalo chicken chili with complementary side dishes can enhance the overall meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every bit of savory broth; spread garlic butter on slices before toasting.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad adds a light contrast; toss with a tangy vinaigrette for extra brightness.
3. Rice or Quinoa: Serving over rice or quinoa can make the meal more filling and provide a nice texture contrast.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Choose seasonal veggies like zucchini or carrots; roasting brings out their natural sweetness.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer sweetness that complements the spicy chili well.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides freshness and balances the richness of the dish; consider using a vinegar-based dressing for added zing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying a new recipe. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili:

• Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season their chili properly. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Stick to the recommended cooking times to keep it tender and juicy.
• Adding ingredients in the wrong order: The order of ingredients matters. Layer them correctly in the slow cooker for even cooking and optimal flavor.
• Not blending the cream cheese properly: If you don’t whisk in the cream cheese well, you may end up with lumps in your chili. Ensure it’s fully blended for a creamy texture.
• Ignoring storage tips: Improper storage can lead to spoilage. Follow specific guidelines for refrigerating or freezing your chili to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• The chili can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally, until evenly warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili that may help you while cooking:

How do I make Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili spicier?

You can add more buffalo sauce or include diced jalapeños for extra heat.

Can I use different beans in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with black beans or pinto beans based on your preference.

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

Typically, it takes about 4-6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high for the chicken to cook thoroughly.

Is there a vegetarian version of Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili?

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

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Adding bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can enhance both nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is not only simple but also versatile, making it ideal for meal prep or casual dinners. Customize it by adding your favorite toppings like avocado or sour cream. Give this delicious recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!