Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Crockpot buffalo chicken chili is a delicious and convenient dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply need a cozy meal for the family. This recipe offers a blend of vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients that make it both satisfying and nourishing. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep work, this dish comes together in just one pot. Simply throw everything into your crockpot and let it do the work!
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices and sauces creates a zesty kick that elevates the dish, making it a favorite for spice lovers.
• Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it with rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips for an extra treat.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time. It stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day!
• High in Protein: The chicken and beans provide a healthy dose of protein, making this chili not only tasty but also filling.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before you start making your Crockpot buffalo chicken chili.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the heart of the recipe! It allows for low-and-slow cooking that results in tender chicken and rich flavors.
• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker, ensuring even distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts

Spices and Seasonings

• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Vegetables and Legumes

• 1 cup frozen corn
• 2 – 10 ounce can fire roasted tomatoes and green chiles
• 2 – 15 ounce can cannellini beans

Liquids

• 1/2 cup Franks Buffalo Sauce
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth

Creamy Additions

• 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
• 4 oz cottage cheese (blended)

How to Make Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Measure out each spice and open the cans of beans and tomatoes beforehand to streamline the process.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

• Place all ingredients except for the cream cheese and cottage cheese into your slow cooker.
• Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Cook

Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Check that the chicken is cooked through before proceeding.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

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

Step 5: Incorporate Cream Cheese

Add the cream cheese to the slow cooker. Whisk it in until there are no lumps remaining. Then return the shredded chicken back into the pot. Cover and cook on low for another 30 minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Cottage Cheese

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

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning & Serve

Taste your chili for seasoning adjustments. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like avocado or green onions!

Enjoy your hearty bowl of Crockpot buffalo chicken chili!

How to Serve Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Crockpot buffalo chicken chili is a hearty dish that can be customized in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, these serving suggestions will enhance the flavor and presentation of your meal.

Toppings

• Chopped Green Onions: Add a fresh crunch and pop of color.
• Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully on top.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Creaminess that balances the heat from the chili.
• Avocado Slices: For a creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Fresh Cilantro: Brightens up the dish with its herbal notes.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Soft and sweet, perfect for soaking up the chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips add texture and make for great dipping.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve over rice or quinoa for extra substance.
• Salad: A light green salad can provide a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

To make sure your crockpot buffalo chicken chili turns out perfect every time, consider these tips for optimal results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices will enhance flavor significantly compared to dried or stale options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Start with less buffalo sauce if you’re sensitive to heat, then add more according to your taste preference.
• Shred Chicken Properly: Use two forks or a hand mixer to ensure even shredding, which helps distribute chicken throughout the chili.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to sit after cooking can meld flavors even better before serving.
• Experiment with Beans: While cannellini beans are delicious, try black beans or kidney beans for variety in texture.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Pairing your crockpot buffalo chicken chili with complementary side dishes elevates your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread: A classic choice, it’s sweet and soft, ideal for soaking up chili.
2. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter add a savory touch.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides freshness and balance against the hearty chili.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring out their natural sweetness.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries add a satisfying crunch and sweetness that pairs well with spicy dishes.
6. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with parmesan adds a nice contrast to the warm chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help ensure your Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili turns out perfectly every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough spices can lead to a bland chili. Make sure to measure your chili powder, cumin, and other spices accurately.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry and tough. Follow the recommended cooking times based on your slow cooker settings.
• Not shredding the chicken properly: If you don’t shred the chicken well, it won’t integrate into the chili, affecting the texture. Use two forks or a hand mixer for even shredding.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold cream cheese can cause lumps in your chili. Ensure it’s at room temperature before mixing it in.
• Neglecting to taste: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings at the end can result in an unbalanced flavor. Always check and tweak as needed before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning into individual servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili:

Can I use different beans?

Yes, feel free to substitute with black beans or pinto beans if you prefer. Just ensure they are canned and drained.

How spicy is this chili?

The spice level primarily comes from the buffalo sauce. You can adjust this by using less sauce or choosing a milder version if desired.

What toppings pair well with Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili?

Consider sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, or avocado slices as delicious toppings!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can substitute chicken with plant-based protein and use non-dairy cream cheese alternatives to create a vegan version of this chili.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize this dish with various toppings or adjust the spice levels according to your taste. It’s perfect for meal prep or family gatherings—give it a try today!