This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is a flavorful, spicy twist on classic chili. Made with shredded chicken, beans, and bold buffalo sauce, it’s the perfect hearty meal for game day or a cozy dinner. Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy a delicious, protein-packed dish with just the right amount of heat.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 (15-ounce) can white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup buffalo sauce
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
• ¼ cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
• ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)

Directions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a slow cooker.
2. Add the white beans, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and buffalo sauce.
3. Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours.
5. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
6. Stir in the cubed cream cheese until melted and well combined.
7. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and crumbled blue cheese if desired.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: ~30g
• Carbohydrates: ~35g
• Fat: ~12g
• Saturated Fat: ~5g
• Fiber: ~8g
• Sugar: ~5g
• Sodium: ~900mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking – The slow cooker does all the work, making it a set-it-and-forget-it meal.
• Bold Buffalo Flavor – If you love buffalo wings, this chili delivers that same spicy kick in a comforting bowl.
• Protein-Packed & Nutritious – Loaded with lean chicken and fiber-rich beans, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or freeze for later.
• Great for Gatherings – Whether it’s game day, a potluck, or a cozy night in, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.

The Origin of Buffalo Chicken Chili

Buffalo chicken is a staple in American cuisine, originating in Buffalo, New York, where the famous Buffalo wings were first created in the 1960s. Since then, the tangy, spicy buffalo sauce has been used in various dishes, including dips, sandwiches, and now chili.

Traditional chili is known for its robust, smoky flavors and is typically made with beef and tomatoes. However, as food trends evolved, people began experimenting with alternative proteins, resulting in creative variations like white chicken chili and buffalo chicken chili. This dish takes inspiration from both, blending the creaminess of white chili with the fiery kick of buffalo sauce.

What Makes Buffalo Chicken Chili Unique?

Unlike traditional chili recipes that rely on tomato-based broths and ground beef, buffalo chicken chili introduces a whole new level of flavor and texture. Some standout features of this dish include:

• Buffalo Sauce: This gives the chili its signature heat and tanginess, setting it apart from classic chili recipes.
• Creamy Base: Unlike tomato-heavy chili, this dish incorporates cream cheese, creating a smooth and velvety texture.
• Shredded Chicken: Instead of using ground meat, this chili features slow-cooked, pull-apart chicken for a heartier bite.
• Ranch Seasoning: A common pairing with buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning enhances the overall flavor with a hint of herby goodness.

Tips for Making the Best Buffalo Chicken Chili

1. Use High-Quality Buffalo Sauce – The flavor of your chili largely depends on the quality of your buffalo sauce. Opt for a well-balanced sauce that is both spicy and tangy.
2. Slow Cook for Maximum Flavor – Letting the chili simmer for hours allows the flavors to deepen, creating a rich and cohesive dish.
3. Adjust Spice Level – If you prefer a milder version, reduce the buffalo sauce and add more cream cheese to balance the heat.
4. Choose the Right Beans – White beans and black beans both work well in this recipe, adding creaminess and texture.
5. Garnish for Extra Flavor – Toppings like shredded cheddar, green onions, blue cheese crumbles, and even tortilla chips can enhance the dish.

Ways to Serve Buffalo Chicken Chili

• With Crusty Bread: A warm slice of bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy chili.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: Serving this chili over grains makes for an even heartier meal.
• Topped with Avocado: The creamy texture of avocado balances the heat of the buffalo sauce.
• As a Dip: Serve it with tortilla chips for a fun and shareable appetizer.

How to Store and Reheat

One of the best things about Buffalo Chicken Chili is how well it stores for later enjoyment.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.
• Freezing: This chili freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Health Benefits of Buffalo Chicken Chili

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s why it’s a great addition to your meal plan:

• High in Protein: Chicken and beans provide a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and energy.
• Rich in Fiber: Beans add fiber, which supports digestion and helps keep you full longer.
• Lower in Fat: Compared to beef-based chilis, this chicken version is lower in saturated fat.
• Contains Healthy Fats: Avocado, if used as a topping, provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply cook the chicken in a large pot over medium heat until fully cooked, then shred and return it to the pot with the remaining ingredients. Simmer for 30–40 minutes.

2. Is this chili very spicy?
The heat level depends on the buffalo sauce used. You can adjust the spice by reducing the buffalo sauce and increasing the cream cheese for a milder version.

3. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can cut down on cooking time. Just add the shredded chicken at the end and let it warm up in the slow cooker.

4. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative or use coconut milk for creaminess.

5. What other toppings can I add?
Besides the classic cheddar and blue cheese, you can top it with diced jalapeños, crispy bacon, or a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is a game-changing recipe that combines the best of both worlds—spicy buffalo chicken and comforting, creamy chili. Its bold flavors, easy preparation, and versatility make it a must-have in your meal rotation. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner, a meal prep staple, or a crowd-pleasing game-day dish, this chili won’t disappoint.