Picture this: the sun is setting, and the smell of savory spices wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace. That unmistakable aroma of Buffalo chicken takes me back to cozy gatherings with friends, where laughter mingled with the tantalizing notes of spice. This isn’t just any Chili; it’s my go-to Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili, a dish that turns busy weeknights into delightful culinary experiences.
I found this recipe during one of those weekends when I wanted comfort without the stress of complicated prep. With just a quick chop and a few tosses into the crockpot, I could let my kitchen do the work while I caught up on my favorite show. The result was an explosion of flavor, ample spice, and heartiness that made my guests come back for seconds—and sometimes thirds!
Best of all, it’s not just delicious; this chili is supremely versatile. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply looking to impress your family, this crowd-pleaser has got you covered. Let’s dive into making this effortless, flavorful dish that will rejuvenate your love for home-cooked food, one hearty bowl at a time.
Why is Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Best: You’ll love how effortlessly this recipe comes together, with just a quick chop and a dump into the crockpot.
Irresistible Flavor: The robust mix of spices and savory components creates a soothing warmth that comforts the soul.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From family dinners to game day, this chili is a versatile crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to keep everyone coming back for more.
Time-Saving Delight: With a total time of just over three hours, your chili simmers to perfection while you go about your day—no constant stirring required!
Customizable Goodness: Whether you prefer Greek yogurt or cream cheese, topping it with avocado or cheese, feel free to make this dish your own!
Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili Ingredients
For the Base
• Medium yellow onion – adds a sweet and savory depth to your chili.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs – provides lean protein that becomes tender and flavorful in the crockpot.
• Hot sauce – enhances the Buffalo flavor; adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
• Garlic powder – offers a convenient way to infuse rich garlic flavor without the peeling and chopping drama.
• Smoked paprika – brings a gentle smokiness that perfectly complements the heat.
• Chipotle chili powder – adds a touch of smokiness and heat, making your chili Instagram-worthy.
• Fire roasted diced tomatoes – contribute a slightly charred tomato flavor that elevates the overall taste.
For the Vegetables
• Poblano peppers – mild and flavorful, these peppers add a delightful twist to your chili.
• Jalapeño pepper – add it for an extra kick; you can seed it to reduce the heat if desired.
• Chopped celery – introduces a crunchy texture and balances the spices well.
For the Broth
• Bone or chicken broth – use 2-4 cups according to your desired consistency; it’s integral to the chili’s flavor.
• Salt and black pepper – season to taste, enhancing all the ingredients beautifully.
• Salted butter – adds richness and creaminess, making this dish indulgent and delicious.
For the Creaminess
• Plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese – either works beautifully to creamify your chili, enriching the texture.
For Toppings
• Fresh cilantro – sprinkle this on top for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Avocado – add slices for a creamy, cool contrast to the hearty chili.
• Cheddar cheese – sprinkle some shredded cheese on top for extra flavor and richness.
• Greek yogurt – serve on top for a tangy finish and added creaminess.
Enjoy creating your unforgettable Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili!
How to Make Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili
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Combine Ingredients: In your crockpot, toss together the chopped onion, chicken, hot sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, diced tomatoes, poblano peppers, jalapeño, and chopped celery. Pour in 2 cups of broth and add butter slices. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crockpot and let it work its magic—cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken tender and flavors melded perfectly.
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Shred Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken right in the crockpot using two forks until it’s in bite-sized pieces. Stir in either cream cheese or Greek yogurt along with the chopped cilantro for a creamy finish.
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Serve and Top: Ladle the chili into warm bowls and top each serving to your heart’s content with Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar, fresh avocado slices, cilantro, or green onions.
Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro for a fresh pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili are ideal for meal prep! You can chop the vegetables (onion, poblano, jalapeño, and celery) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can combine the dry ingredients (spices) and keep them in a separate container, ensuring that flavor profiles remain intact. When you’re ready to enjoy your chili, simply add the prepped ingredients to the crockpot with the chicken, broth, and butter, then cook as directed. This way, you save time on busy weeknights while guaranteeing that your chili remains just as delicious and hearty. Enjoy warm with your favorite toppings once cooked!
Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful variations to make this chili your very own, adding layers of flavor or accommodating dietary preferences!
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Spicy Kick: Add more chipotle chili powder or diced jalapeños for an extra heat boost that chili lovers will adore.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with black beans or lentils; adjust cooking time to ensure everything is tender and flavors meld beautifully.
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Creamy Avocado: Toss in some diced avocado towards the end for a creamy texture that enhances the chili without additional dairy.
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Southwestern Twist: Mix in corn and black beans for a hearty twist, giving your chili a delightful texture and nutrients.
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Smoky Flavor: Enhance with a splash of liquid smoke for a rich, smoky depth that’s irresistible as it mingles with the spices.
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Pasta Lovers: Serve over cooked pasta for a hearty meal that’s a fun twist on traditional chili; it makes for an unexpected fusion delight!
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Lighter Option: Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a tangy touch, maintaining creaminess while cutting back on calories.
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Low-Sodium Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier option, allowing you to control salt levels while keeping flavor intact.
What to Serve with Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili?
Create a cozy and satisfying meal experience with delightful pairings that enhance every bite of your chili.
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Cornbread Muffins: Fluffy and slightly sweet, they soak up the chili’s richness beautifully while adding a comforting touch.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: The perfect crunchy accompaniment; they’re ideal for dipping, adding a delightful contrast to the chili’s warmth.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette brightens up your meal and balances out the hearty chili.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and coolness of coleslaw creates a fantastic texture contrast, while its tangy flavor complements the spiciness of the chili.
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Avocado Toast: Spread creamy avocado on toasted bread and sprinkle with lime juice and chili flakes for a fresh side that mirrors the flavors of the main dish.
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Honey Lemon Iced Tea: A refreshing drink that cools the palate between bites, this sweet tea adds a touch of brightness to the chili.
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Chocolate Brownies: End your meal indulgently with rich, fudgy brownies; their sweetness contrasts beautifully with the chili’s spice.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let the chili cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chili in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the consistency.
Serving Tip: This chili tastes even better the next day! Feel free to top it with fresh cilantro, avocado, and cheese upon serving.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili
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Flavor Boosting: For deeper flavor, consider sautéing the onion and garlic before adding them to the crockpot. This enhances the overall taste of your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili.
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Chicken Preference: Feel free to use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result. Just remember to adjust cooking time as needed for tenderness.
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Spice Control: If heat is a concern, start with less hot sauce and jalapeño, then adjust to taste after cooking. You can always add more, but it’s hard to tone down spiciness!
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Texture Matters: For a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans or shredded chicken against the side of the crockpot before serving. This will keep the consistency just right.
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Topping Variety: Don’t hesitate to explore topping options; a drizzle of ranch dressing or a sprinkle of crispy bacon can add delightful flavors to your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili.
Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! Choose firm, bright-colored poblanos and jalapeños that feel heavy for their size. For the chicken, I recommend skinless thighs for maximum flavor and tenderness. Look for fresh, juicy tomatoes without dark spots and a sweet-smelling onion to elevate your chili.
How should I store leftovers of Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili?
Very! Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to label it with the date so you can enjoy every delicious bite while it’s still fresh!
Can I freeze Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the chili cool, then ladle it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Ensure you leave a little space for steam expansion, sealing tightly. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to revive its creamy goodness!
What should I do if my chili is too spicy?
No worries! If you find your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili turned out a bit hotter than expected, you can balance the heat by adding more creaminess. Stir in additional Greek yogurt or cream cheese, or even a touch of brown sugar to mellow the flavors. Adding more diced tomatoes can also dilute the spice and enhance the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for those with specific dietary restrictions?
Definitely! For a gluten-free option, ensure your hot sauce and any broth used are certified gluten-free. If you’re catering to dairy-free diets, simply omit the cream cheese or Greek yogurt and try a dairy-free sour cream alternative. Also, if you’re serving kids or those sensitive to spice, consider using less hot sauce to keep it mild without sacrificing flavor.
Mouthwatering Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In your crockpot, toss together the chopped onion, chicken, hot sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, diced tomatoes, poblano peppers, jalapeño, and chopped celery. Pour in 2 cups of broth and add butter slices. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and flavors melded.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the crockpot and stir in either cream cheese or Greek yogurt along with chopped cilantro.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top each serving with Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar, fresh avocado, cilantro, or green onions.