Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili is bold spicy comfort food that always wins over a crowd and brings weeknight excitement. When classic chili starts to feel a little dull this version shakes things up with creamy richness and big flavor without any fuss.

What Makes It Special

• Uses your slow cooker for easy hands-off cooking
• Packed with protein and fiber from beans and chicken
• Buffalo wing sauce adds craveable heat
• Cream cheese creates rich silky texture
• Perfect for game day or family dinners

The first time I made this for a neighborhood potluck it disappeared before anything else. Now I get requests for the recipe anytime there is a gathering or family need for something hearty.

The first time I made this for a neighborhood potluck it disappeared before anything else. Now I get requests for the recipe anytime there is a gathering or family need for something hearty.

What You’ll Need

• Ground chicken: Look for fresh or well-chilled chicken to keep the chili tasting bright and lean
• Canned white navy beans: These make things creamy and satisfying Use beans that are firm not mushy for best texture
• Fire roasted tomatoes: They bring a roasted tangy layer Use ones packed in juice not sauce
• Chicken broth: Choose low sodium to better control seasoning
• Buffalo wing sauce: Start with mild but choose your favorite Heat level can be adjusted at the end
• Ranch dressing mix: This seasons the whole chili without extra effort Read labels and seek out one with real herbs
• Frozen corn kernels: Adds sweetness and texture Use ones that are bright yellow and separate easily
• Onion powder and garlic powder: Bring flavor without chopping
• Celery salt and dried cilantro: Build aroma and a subtle herbal quality Opt for high quality dried cilantro
• Salt: Brings everything together
• Cream cheese: Choose a block style for smooth melting
• Blue cheese crumbles: Optional but delicious for serving Get proper crumbly blue for best flavor

Let’s Cook This Together

Prepare the Chicken:

Brown ground chicken in a skillet over medium heat until cooked through and lightly golden Break up any large pieces with a wooden spoon so it mixes well later

Combine the Ingredients:

Transfer cooked chicken to your slow cooker Stir in the drained beans fire roasted tomatoes chicken broth buffalo wing sauce ranch mix corn onion powder garlic powder celery salt dried cilantro and salt Mix thoroughly to distribute all the seasoning evenly

Add the Creamy Element:

Place the block of cream cheese directly on top of the chili mixture without stirring Cover the slow cooker so the cheese slowly softens and melds with the flavors

Slow Cooking:

Set your slow cooker to high for four hours or low for eight hours Let the gentle heat transform the flavors and textures As it cooks the fragrance will fill your kitchen

Finish and Stir:

After the cooking time remove the lid and stir the chili until the cream cheese is fully blended Taste and adjust the buffalo wing sauce for more kick if needed

Serve:

Ladle the chili into bowls Top with blue cheese crumbles if desired Serve hot with crusty bread or tortilla chips on the side

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Good to Know

• High protein and hearty enough for a meal
• Naturally gluten free if you check your wing sauce and ranch mix
• Stays creamy even after reheating
• Feeds a crowd and is very filling

My favorite part is the cream cheese which melts right into the pot and gives the chili a luscious consistency. The first time my brother tasted this recipe he declared it the best thing I had made in months and now it is the centerpiece during Super Bowl Sundays at our place.

Keeping It Fresh

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The chili reheats beautifully either on the stovetop or in the microwave and the flavors only deepen as it sits overnight. If you want to freeze it let it cool completely first then transfer portions to freezer safe containers.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

Ground turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken work just as well if that’s what you have. If you are out of navy beans try great northern or cannellini for a similar creamy effect. Skip blue cheese if you are not a fan or top with a dollop of sour cream. You can use fresh corn when in season for extra sweetness.

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How to Serve It Right

I love to serve this chili with toasted baguette slices or sturdy tortilla chips which hold up to the creamy sauce. For toppings set out a tray with extra buffalo sauce chopped green onions crumbled bacon or even avocado slices so everyone can customize. A side salad with crisp greens will balance the richness.

Behind the Dish

This chili was born out of a desire to combine all my favorite football snacks in one easy meal. I tried a dozen versions before nailing the balance of spice tang and creamy texture. It is now our family’s official cold weather comfort dish and I am always amazed at how even picky eaters go back for seconds.

Kitchen Wisdom

• Always brown your chicken before adding to the slow cooker for the best flavor
• Let the cream cheese sit on top instead of stirring at the start so it melts slowly into the chili
• Taste near the end and add more buffalo sauce as needed for your preferred heat level

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use another protein instead of ground chicken?

Yes, ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken are great substitutes and will maintain the chili's texture and flavor.

→ How spicy is this dish?

Spice level depends on the amount of buffalo wing sauce used. Start with less and add more after cooking to adjust heat.

→ Is it possible to make this chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I omit the cream cheese?

Cream cheese gives a rich, creamy texture, but you can leave it out or swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter finish.

→ What toppings work best?

Blue cheese crumbles, chopped green onions, diced avocado, or tortilla strips all make excellent toppings for added flavor and texture.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check the ranch dressing mix to ensure it doesn't include gluten-containing additives.