There’s something incredibly comforting about the rich, spicy aroma that fills the kitchen as you whip up a batch of Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili. The vibrant colors of bell peppers and the zingy tang of buffalo sauce meld together, inviting you to indulge in a bowl of warmth, perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. I discovered this gem during one of those busy weekdays when takeout just wouldn’t do. With just a few fresh ingredients and a little patience, I crafted a meal that not only satisfied my cravings but left my family eagerly waiting for seconds.
This chili is an easy solution for anyone tired of the usual weeknight dinners or battling bland takeout. Let the slow cooker do the magic—while you kick back and relax, it transforms simple chicken and beans into a smoky, spicy delight. Plus, it’s packed with flavor and protein, making it the ideal dish for food lovers like us looking for something truly homemade. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s dive into this satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili
- This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili is the epitome of ease, allowing you to throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax.
- The bold and zesty flavors come together beautifully, providing a delightful kick that will tantalize your taste buds with every spoonful.
- Its versatility means you can easily customize the spice level or toss in any of your favorite veggies for an added twist.
- Not only is it visually appealing with its vibrant colors, but it also serves as a true crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili Ingredients
• Dive into this flavor-packed dish with the freshest ingredients!
For the Chili Base
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – these are perfect for shredding into the chili after slow cooking.
- Buffalo sauce – adds that signature spicy kick; adjust the amount for your preferred heat level.
- Fire-roasted diced tomatoes – they bring a smoky flavor that complements the chili beautifully.
- Kidney beans – rinsing them helps to reduce the sodium and enhance the taste.
- Medium onion – provides a savory foundation and sweetness when sautéed.
- Garlic cloves – minced to release robust flavor; feel free to add more for garlic lovers!
- Bell peppers – any color works; they add a burst of freshness and color.
- Frozen corn – sweet and crunchy, this ingredient enhances the texture of your chili.
- Low-sodium chicken broth – using low-sodium keeps the dish balanced and healthy.
For the Spices
- Ground cumin – infuses warmth and earthiness into the slow cooker buffalo chicken chili.
- Chili powder – this spice blend adds depth and richness to your chili.
How to Make Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili
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Prep the Ingredients: Start by dicing the onion and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces, and mincing the garlic cloves until fragrant. Having everything ready will make it easier for you as you cook.
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Combine in the Slow Cooker: Place the diced vegetables into your slow cooker along with the boneless chicken breasts. Layering them creates a flavorful base for your chili.
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Add the Tomatoes and Sauce: Pour in the can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes and the buffalo sauce over the chicken and veggies. The sauce will contribute to the chili’s rich, spicy flavor.
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Add Beans and Broth: Rinse the kidney beans under cold water, drain them, and add to the slow cooker. Pour in enough low-sodium chicken broth until the ingredients are just covered, enhancing the chili’s consistency.
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Season the Mixture: Sprinkle ground cumin and chili powder generously over the mixture. Stir well to ensure every ingredient is infused with the delightful spices for a well-rounded flavor.
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Cook to Perfection: Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender enough to shred easily. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
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Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken and return it to the chili. Stir everything together for a hearty finish.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili Variations
Customize your Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili to match your taste and dietary preferences—let your creativity shine through deliciously!
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Spicy Kick: Increase the buffalo sauce or add sliced jalapeños for an extra heat boost that ignites your taste buds.
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Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth for a hearty, plant-based option without sacrificing flavor.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a block of cream cheese during the last hour of cooking for a rich and creamy texture that adds indulgence.
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Southwestern Twist: Toss in black beans, corn, and diced green chilies for a vibrant southwestern flair that will surprise your palate.
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Sweet Touch: Mix in a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to balance the spice with a hint of sweetness, creating delightful flavor layers.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten the dish just before serving, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal.
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Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a deep, smoky essence that transforms the chili into something extraordinary.
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Cheesy Delight: Top your chili with shredded cheese or crumbled feta just before serving; the melt-in-your-mouth goodness adds a delightful richness.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili?
Elevate your dining experience with these delightful pairings that enhance the bold flavors of your chili.
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Creamy Mac and Cheese: The rich creaminess and cheesy goodness balance the spicy kick, offering a comforting companion to the chili.
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Cornbread Muffins: Warm, sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast, soaking up the chili’s flavors with every bite. They’re a classic duo!
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Garden Salad: A light, fresh salad with crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that perfectly counters the hearty chili.
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Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on crusty bread offers a lush texture that complements the dish’s spice without overwhelming your palate.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread: This indulgent treat is perfect for scooping up chili while adding a satisfying, garlicky crunch to every delicious bite.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside for a fun, crunchy texture; dip them into the chili for an added kick to each chip!
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Ice-Cold Beer: A crisp lager or spicy IPA can enhance the flavor, cooling your palate during this spice fest while keeping the vibes relaxed.
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Chocolate Brownies: Finish your meal on a sweet note—rich, fudgy brownies contrast beautifully with the chili’s heat, satisfying that sweet tooth.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili
Fridge: Store any leftover chili in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps to keep the flavors fresh while the spices blend beautifully over time.
Freezer: For longer storage, portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy again.
Reheating: Heat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure even heating.
Leftovers: This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to blend.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili preparations are ideal for busy home cooks wanting to save time during the week! You can chop the onion, bell peppers, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can mix the dry spices (cumin and chili powder) in a small bowl and store them ahead as well. When you’re ready to enjoy your chili, assemble everything in the slow cooker with chicken breasts and liquids as described. Set it to cook, and let the slow cooker do its magic—this ensures a flavorful meal awaits you with minimal effort!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili, ensure your ingredients are prepped properly to save time later; keeping everything uniform in size helps with even cooking.
- A common mistake is not rinsing the kidney beans, as this can lead to an overly salty flavor, so make sure to drain and rinse them well.
- For a richer taste, consider sautéing the onions and garlic in a bit of oil before adding them to the slow cooker, as this enhances their flavor profile.
- Lastly, keep an eye on the cooking time, as chicken should be tender enough to shred after 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, but using a meat thermometer should register at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit for perfect peace of mind.
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs
How do I know which chicken breasts to select for my chili?
Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are plump and firm with no dark spots or unpleasant smells. Fresh chicken should have a light pink color, and the packaging should be intact with no leaks.
What’s the best way to store leftover chili?
To store your Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make it watery.
Can I freeze the leftover chili?
Very! To freeze your chili, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to leave some headspace for expansion, as it will thicken when frozen. It can be kept for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my chili is too spicy?
If you find your chili is a bit too fiery, don’t worry! You can balance the heat by adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese, which will mellow the flavors. Alternatively, stir in a bit of sugar or honey to counteract the spiciness.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, ensure the buffalo sauce is gluten-free if necessary, and check for allergens. Additionally, if you’re making this for pets, avoid ingredients like garlic and high-sodium broth, as they’re not suitable for them.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked and ready to shred?
To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you prefer the old-school method, the chicken should shred easily with a fork. If it’s still tough, give it another hour on low!
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by dicing the onion and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces, and mincing the garlic cloves until fragrant.
- Place the diced vegetables into your slow cooker along with the boneless chicken breasts.
- Pour in the can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes and the buffalo sauce over the chicken and veggies.
- Rinse the kidney beans under cold water, drain them, and add to the slow cooker.
- Pour in enough low-sodium chicken broth until the ingredients are just covered.
- Sprinkle ground cumin and chili powder generously over the mixture, stirring well.
- Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks before returning to the chili.
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