Irresistibly Creamy Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili: Your New Favorite Comfort Food
Are you ready to elevate your chili game? Step aside, traditional beef chili, because this Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili is here to steal the show! Perfect for those chilly evenings, but equally delightful year-round, this recipe offers a unique twist on classic comfort food. Imagine all the beloved flavors of spicy buffalo wings infused into a rich, hearty, and incredibly creamy chili – that’s exactly what awaits you. It’s a delicious, robust, and flavor-packed dish that promises to become a staple in your kitchen.
This remarkable chili stands out from typical recipes by blending the zesty kick of buffalo sauce with tender chicken and a luscious, creamy base. It’s a fantastic way to introduce exciting flavors to your dinner table without sacrificing the comforting warmth of a classic chili. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience, designed to be enjoyed by the whole family and is destined to be your new go-to chili recipe.
What Makes This Recipe So Uniquely Delicious?
This isn’t just another chili recipe; it’s a culinary adventure that brings together beloved flavors in a fresh and exciting way. Here’s why this Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili will captivate your taste buds:
- A Refreshing Twist on Tradition: If you’re tired of the same old dinner routine, this chili offers a wonderful change of pace. It’s a fantastic departure from traditional beef or turkey chilis, introducing a vibrant, tangy, and savory profile that is both familiar and exciting. The fusion of classic chili ingredients with the unmistakable taste of buffalo wings creates a truly memorable dish.
- Buffalo Wing Nirvana in a Bowl: For dedicated fans of Buffalo Hot Wings, this chili is an absolute dream come true. It captures the iconic spicy, tangy essence of your favorite wings, but in a comforting, spoon-worthy form. All the incredible flavor, none of the sticky mess! It’s perfect for game day gatherings, cozy nights in, or anytime you crave that signature buffalo kick.
- Customizable Spice Level: While it delivers a satisfying warmth, this chili allows you to tailor the heat to your preference. Whether you prefer a gentle hum or a fiery explosion of flavor, you can easily adjust the amount of buffalo hot wing sauce to create your ideal spice level. It’s a versatile dish that caters to everyone at the table, from spice enthusiasts to those who prefer a milder warmth.
- Effortless Slow Cooker Convenience: The magic of the slow cooker transforms this recipe into an incredibly easy, hands-off meal. Simply combine your ingredients, set it, and forget it! The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich, deeply satisfying chili with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Creamy, Hearty, and Utterly Satisfying: Beyond the buffalo flavor, this chili is wonderfully hearty, packed with tender chicken, beans, corn, and a secret ingredient – cream cheese – that melts into a luxuriously creamy broth. This creaminess perfectly balances the heat, creating a rich, smooth texture that makes every spoonful pure comfort. It’s a substantial meal that will keep you feeling full and warm.
Essential Ingredients for Your Buffalo Chicken Chili
Crafting this incredible slow cooker buffalo chicken chili begins with a selection of fresh, quality ingredients. While the full list with precise quantities is detailed in the comprehensive recipe card below, here’s an overview of the key components you’ll need to gather:
You’ll start with ground chicken as the lean protein base, seasoned with a blend of chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder to build a foundational flavor. Fresh vegetables like celery and green onions add a crisp texture and aromatic depth, while frozen corn contributes a touch of sweetness. Canned fire-roasted tomatoes and cannellini beans provide body and a smoky tang. Of course, the star of the show is buffalo hot wing sauce, delivering that signature spicy and tangy kick. Chicken broth ties all these components together, and softened cream cheese and sour cream are added towards the end to achieve the chili’s signature creamy richness. Ensure you have fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best possible flavor outcome.
Buffalo Chicken Chili Recipe Overview: Simple Steps to Perfection
Creating this flavorful slow cooker buffalo chicken chili is surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the magic of slow cooking. This section provides a concise overview of the steps involved, allowing you to visualize the cooking process. For incredibly detailed, step-byby-step instructions and precise measurements, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card conveniently located at the bottom of this post.
Pro Tip: Think of your favorite buffalo hot wings accompaniments, or classic chili toppings. These are your best friends here! I highly recommend a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles for that authentic buffalo flavor, fresh cilantro for brightness, a side of warm cornbread, crunchy tortilla chips, and an extra dollop of cool sour cream. These additions create a symphony of textures and flavors that truly complete the meal.
Recipe Variations and Smart Substitute Ideas
One of the beauties of chili recipes is their versatility, and this Buffalo Chicken Chili is no exception. Feel free to get creative with these variations and substitutions to tailor the dish to your taste preferences or what you have on hand:
- Alternate White Beans: While cannellini beans offer a wonderfully creamy texture, you can easily swap them out for other white beans like navy beans or great northern beans. Each will provide a slightly different texture but integrate beautifully into the chili.
- Boost the Heat with Green Chilies: For those who love an extra layer of warmth and a subtle smoky flavor, consider adding a 4-ounce can of diced green chilies (mild or hot, depending on your preference) along with the other ingredients. They bring a fantastic depth without overpowering the buffalo flavor.
- Shredded Chicken Option: Instead of ground chicken, you can use shredded cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut. Add the shredded chicken during the last hour of cooking, alongside the cream cheese, to ensure it warms through and absorbs the chili flavors without becoming dry.
- Introduce Black Beans: If you enjoy the earthy flavor and robust texture of black beans, feel free to add a drained and rinsed can to the mix. They complement the other ingredients wonderfully and add more substance to the chili.
- Cheddar Cheese Garnish: While blue cheese offers a classic buffalo pairing, a sprinkle of grated sharp cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese at the end of cooking, or as a garnish when serving, adds a familiar and comforting cheesiness that many love.
- Alternative Chicken Cuts: If ground chicken isn’t your preference, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts can be used. Simply dice them into bite-sized pieces and brown them before adding to the slow cooker, or add them whole and shred them once cooked (around the same time you add the cream cheese).
- Ranch Dressing Mix for Flavor: Some cooks have experimented with adding a packet of ranch dressing mix instead of or in addition to the specified seasonings. While I haven’t personally tried this variation with this particular recipe, it’s known to add a distinct savory, herbaceous flavor that pairs well with buffalo. If you give it a try, let us know your thoughts in the comments!
- Fresh Garlic Punch: For an even more pungent aromatic base, sauté a few cloves of fresh chopped garlic with the ground chicken before adding it to the slow cooker. This will deepen the savory notes significantly.
- Serving with White Rice: Offer a side of fluffy white rice. Spooning the chili over rice can create a more filling meal and provides a great way to soak up all the delicious sauce.
- Crunchy Tortilla Strips: For an extra textural contrast, cut corn tortillas into thin strips and bake or fry them until crispy. Add these homemade tortilla strips to individual bowls just before serving.
- Sweetness from Red Bell Pepper: A finely diced red bell pepper added with the other vegetables can introduce a subtle sweetness and vibrant color, balancing the spice.
- Richness with Tomato Sauce: If you prefer a chili with a slightly more pronounced tomato base, a small can of tomato sauce (around 8 ounces) can be added along with the fire-roasted tomatoes.
- Classic Chili Beans: For a more traditional chili bean experience, you can substitute the cannellini beans with a can of chili beans (often seasoned in a mild chili sauce) for a familiar flavor profile.
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More Irresistible Slow Cooker Meals You’ll Love
The slow cooker is a true kitchen hero, making delicious and comforting meals accessible with minimal effort. If you enjoyed this Buffalo Chicken Chili, you’re sure to fall in love with some of our other cherished slow cooker recipes:
- Crock Pot Pinto Beans
- Crock Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
- Venison Chili
- Crock Pot Beer Chili Recipe
- Crockpot Frito Pie: A fun and flavorful dish that’s perfect for casual gatherings or a satisfying family dinner.
- Slow Cooker Steak Pie: Tender chunks of steak in a rich gravy, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker – ideal for a hearty meal.
- Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup: A vibrant and zesty soup, packed with chicken, beans, and corn, making for a wonderfully comforting and light meal.
For delectable side dishes that perfectly complement any chili, be sure to try our Stuffed Garlic Bread or our incredibly moist and flavorful Sour Cream Cornbread. They are perfect for soaking up every last drop of your delicious chili!
Necessary Gear: Equipment
Making this Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili is incredibly simple, largely thanks to the right kitchen tools. The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the slow cooker itself. I personally used a 6-Quart Crock Pot for this recipe, which is an ideal size for family meals and ensures even cooking.
A slow cooker is a fantastic investment for any home cook, allowing you to prepare deeply flavorful meals with minimal hands-on time. It’s perfect for busy schedules, as you can set it in the morning and come home to a delicious, hot dinner. The gentle, consistent heat of a slow cooker helps to tenderize the chicken and meld all the complex flavors of the chili beautifully. Beyond the slow cooker, you’ll also need a large 12-inch skillet for browning the ground chicken before it goes into the pot. This crucial step adds a significant layer of flavor that you won’t want to skip!
You can find recommended affiliate links for equipment, including my preferred slow cooker and skillet, within the recipe card at the bottom of this post, should you need to upgrade or purchase new gear.
How to Store and Enjoy Leftovers
This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili is not only delicious freshly made but also fantastic as leftovers, often tasting even better the next day as the flavors continue to deepen. Proper storage is key to maintaining its quality and safety.
Once your chili has cooled completely to room temperature (this is important to prevent bacterial growth), transfer it to an airtight container. It can then be stored safely in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if it has thickened too much.
This recipe also freezes exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prepping. Divide the cooled chili into individual portions or larger freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Ensure there’s a little headspace if using rigid containers to allow for expansion. Label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as directed above. Freezing is a great way to have a delicious, homemade meal ready for those extra busy days!
Mel’s Kitchen Notes and Insider Tips
A little secret from my kitchen to yours: If you’re planning to prepare this incredible Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili for a game day gathering, a potluck, or any event where you want it to truly shine, make it the day before! This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a golden rule for chili. As with nearly any chili recipe, the flavors always deepen and meld together beautifully overnight, resulting in a more complex, harmonious, and utterly delicious dish the next day. The spices have more time to infuse, and the creamy base becomes even more luxurious. Trust me on this – your taste buds will thank you!
Beyond the “next day” rule, remember to taste and adjust seasonings before serving. A little extra buffalo sauce or a pinch more salt can make all the difference. Don’t be shy with the toppings either; they add crucial texture and flavor that elevate the entire experience.
About The Author
Melanie Cagle
Melanie is a professional cook, passionate food photographer, and a true Cajun food connoisseur. Since 2020, she has been dedicated to sharing rigorously tested recipes and comprehensive cooking tutorials right here on this blog. Her culinary expertise and engaging approach have made her a trusted source for delicious, reliable recipes.
Melanie’s exceptional work and unique recipes have garnered significant attention, with her creations being featured on reputable platforms such as Fox News channels, Yahoo News, Southern Living, and more. Her commitment to quality and flavor shines through in every recipe she shares.
Frequently Asked Questions: FAQs
For the most authentic and robust buffalo flavor, I highly recommend using Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce. It delivers that classic tangy and spicy profile that truly defines buffalo dishes. However, hot sauce preference is quite personal, so feel free to use your favorite brand of buffalo wing sauce or even a blend if you have one you love. Just ensure it’s specifically a ‘wing sauce’ rather than a pure hot sauce, as wing sauces typically have butter or other ingredients to create a smoother, richer flavor.
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work wonderfully in this chili. You can dice them into 1-inch pieces and brown them slightly in the skillet before adding to the slow cooker, just as you would with ground chicken. Alternatively, you can add whole chicken breasts or thighs directly to the slow cooker, and they will cook until tender enough to easily shred with two forks about 1-2 hours before the chili is done. Simply remove them, shred, and return to the pot before adding the cream cheese.
If you prefer a milder chili, there are a few easy adjustments you can make. Reduce the amount of buffalo hot wing sauce by half or to taste, or opt for a milder brand. You can also slightly reduce the chili powder and cumin, or omit them entirely if you’re very sensitive to spice. Adding an extra block of cream cheese or a larger dollop of sour cream at the end can also help to temper the heat and create a richer, creamier chili.
Generally, yes, this recipe can be naturally gluten-free. Most of the core ingredients like chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, and dairy are gluten-free. However, it’s always crucial to check the labels of your chicken broth and buffalo hot wing sauce, as some brands may contain gluten-containing additives or thickeners. Always look for certified gluten-free labels if you or your guests have strict dietary restrictions.
Yes, if your chili is thinner than you prefer, there are a couple of ways to thicken it. You can create a cornstarch slurry by whisking 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the hot chili during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and it will thicken as it simmers. Another natural way is to remove about 1-2 cups of the chili, mash some of the beans and vegetables, and then stir it back into the pot. This adds body and creaminess without altering the flavor profile significantly.
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Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili
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Equipment
- Large 12″ Skillet
- 7 Quart Crock Pot
Ingredients
- 1 Pound Ground Chicken
- 2 teaspoons Chili Powder
- 2 teaspoons Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 2 Ribs Celery chopped
- 2 Each Green Onions chopped
- ½ Cup Frozen Corn
- 1 (14 Ounce) Can Fire Roasted Tomatoes drained
- 1 (14 Ounce) Can Cannellini Beans drained and rinsed
- ½ Cup Buffalo Hot Wings Sauce
- 3 Cups Chicken Broth
- 1 (8 Ounce) Block Cream Cheese softened
- ½ Cup Sour Cream
Optional Toppings
- Crumbled Blue Cheese
- Fresh Cilantro
Instructions
- Add the ground chicken to a large 12″ skillet and cook over medium-high heat until totally browned. Drain any excess fat.1 Pound Ground Chicken
- Transfer the browned ground chicken to your slow cooker. Then, add the chopped celery, green onions, frozen corn, drained fire-roasted tomatoes, drained and rinsed cannellini beans, buffalo hot wing sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, onion powder, and garlic powder to the slow cooker.2 teaspoons Chili Powder, 2 teaspoons Ground Cumin, 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder, 1 teaspoon Onion Powder, 2 Ribs Celery, 2 Each Green Onions, ½ Cup Frozen Corn, 1 (14 Ounce) Can Fire Roasted Tomatoes, 1 (14 Ounce) Can Cannellini Beans, ½ Cup Buffalo Hot Wings Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all ingredients are mostly submerged.3 Cups Chicken Broth
- Give all the ingredients in the slow cooker a good stir to combine them thoroughly. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the LOW setting for 8 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 4-6 hours.
- Approximately one hour before the end of the total cooking time, add the softened cream cheese, cut into cubes or blocks, into the slow cooker.1 (8 Ounce) Block Cream Cheese
- Re-cover the slow cooker and continue to cook for the final hour. This allows the cream cheese to soften and begin melting into the chili.
- After the final hour, remove the lid. Use a whisk or a spoon to stir the cream cheese vigorously into the buffalo chicken chili until it is completely melted and the chili is smooth and creamy.
- Finally, stir in the sour cream until well combined. Serve your Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili hot with your favorite optional toppings.½ Cup Sour Cream, Crumbled Blue Cheese, Fresh Cilantro
Notes
If you’re a fan of creamy, comforting soups, another favorite of mine is the Copycat Saltgrass Steakhouse Baked Potato Soup – it’s incredibly rich and hearty!
Nutrition
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