Pin
Advertisement
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili is my answer when dinnertime calls for something comforting but not the same old bowl of chili This creamy spicy twist ticks every box and always disappears fast at potlucks
The first time I brought this to a friendly chili cook off I ended up with an empty crock and lots of requests for the recipe Since then it has become my go-to for busy weeks and chilly nights
Ingredients
Advertisement
- Ground chicken: Lean flavorful and perfect for soaking up buffalo sauce Use fresh if possible and break it up well as it cooks
- Canned white navy beans: Creamy texture and balanced flavor Make sure to drain and rinse for best taste
- Fire roasted tomatoes: Brings a gentle smoky note Choose brands with no added sugar for richer flavor
- Chicken broth: Forms the base and keeps everything moist Go for low sodium to control salt
- Buffalo wing sauce: Brings the signature heat Start on the low end and add more to taste
- Ranch dressing mix: Punches up the tang Look for the packets near the salad dressing aisle
- Frozen corn: Adds bursts of sweetness Check that kernels are loose not frozen into a block
- Onion powder and garlic powder: Layers in savory foundation Look for fresh fragrant jars
- Celery salt: Evokes classic buffalo wing flavor A little goes a long way
- Dried cilantro: A hint of green brightness Rub between fingers for best flavor
- Salt: Balances everything Use flaked sea salt for cleaner taste
- Cream cheese: Creates the signature creamy consistency Use full fat for best melt and richness
- Blue cheese crumbles (optional): Adds bold tangy finish Buy precrumbled or crumble your own from a wedge
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Chicken:
- Cook ground chicken in a skillet over medium heat Break up any lumps and stir until there is no pink left This step adds flavor and helps the chili cook up perfectly in the slow cooker
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Transfer the browned chicken to your slow cooker Add in the drained navy beans fire roasted tomatoes chicken broth buffalo wing sauce ranch seasoning frozen corn onion powder garlic powder celery salt dried cilantro and salt Give everything a big gentle stir to distribute flavors evenly
- Add the Cream Cheese:
- Nestle the whole block of cream cheese on top Do not mix in yet This melts slowly for extra creaminess as the chili cooks
- Slow Cook It:
- Set your slow cooker on high for four hours or low for eight hours As it cooks aroma will fill your kitchen and the flavors deepen
- Finish the Chili:
- Once the time is up lift the slow cooker lid and give everything a hearty stir to melt and blend in the cream cheese Add a splash or more of buffalo sauce to suit your spicy preference
- Top and Serve:
- Spoon into bowls and sprinkle blue cheese crumbles over each serving if you love that classic buffalo finish
Pin
Advertisement
I always look forward to the moment when I stir in the cream cheese and watch the chili turn velvety and rich Reminds me of snowy Sundays when neighbors would drop by and I knew I could always offer a steaming bowl of this chili
Storage Tips
Let any extra chili cool to room temp before refrigerating Store in an airtight container for up to four days If you want to freeze it portion into freezer bags or containers and freeze for up to three months The cream cheese keeps it creamy but be sure to stir well after reheating
Advertisement
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ground turkey for chicken or use leftover shredded rotisserie chicken White cannellini beans can stand in for navy if that’s what you have For a dairyfree spin try using a plantbased cream cheese and leave out blue cheese
Pin
Serving Suggestions
Advertisement
A sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or green onions brightens up each bowl I sometimes add crushed tortilla chips for crunch or serve the chili alongside crusty bread Cornbread and a crisp salad also make a satisfying meal
Cultural Context
Buffalo chicken is a classic American mashup born in Buffalo New York and this dish borrows all the beloved flavors in a cozy chili form Bringing ranch buffalo sauce and blue cheese together celebrates the ultimate tailgate or game day comfort food
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of bean?
Yes, you can substitute navy beans with cannellini or great northern beans for similar texture and flavor.
- → How can I make it spicier?
Add extra buffalo wing sauce or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes to increase the heat level to your taste.
- → Is there a dairy-free version?
Swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative and skip the blue cheese topping to keep it dairy-free.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can brown the chicken in advance and refrigerate or freeze all ingredients (except cream cheese) for an easy dump-and-go meal.
- → What can I serve alongside this dish?
Cornbread, tortilla chips, or a crisp green salad pair wonderfully to round out the meal.