Why Make This Recipe
Buffalo Chicken Chili is a delightful twist on traditional chili, combining the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with the comforting warmth of a hearty stew. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a game day feast. It warms the soul and fills the belly, making everyone happy.
This chili is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. With ingredients that meld together beautifully in a slow cooker, you can enjoy a rich and savory dish with minimal effort. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or explore new flavors.
Equipment Needed for Buffalo Chicken Chili
To make Buffalo Chicken Chili, you’ll need a few basic kitchen items.
- Slow cooker (5-quart or larger)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Immersion blender (optional)
- Mixing bowl
Having these tools ready will make cooking easier and more enjoyable!
What You Need to Make Buffalo Chicken Chili
To create this flavorful chili, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds)
- 1 (15-ounce) can white beans, drained and rinsed (such as cannellini or white kidney)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes in their juices
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (5-ounce) can diced green chiles in their juices
- 1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce plus additional to taste
- 2 medium carrots, scrubbed and sliced into very thin coins
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (2 percent or whole)
- Blue cheese or feta crumbles for serving (optional)
- Thinly sliced green onions for serving (optional)
Make sure you have everything on hand before you start cooking!
How to Cook Buffalo Chicken Chili Step by Step
To get started, take your slow cooker and add the chicken breasts at the bottom. Spread the white beans evenly over the chicken. Next, pour in the can of fire-roasted tomatoes along with their juices. Then, add the low-sodium chicken broth and the can of diced green chiles.
Now it’s time to spice things up! Pour in the Buffalo wing sauce, then sprinkle in the sliced carrots. For the seasoning, add onion powder, garlic powder, celery salt, dried dill, and ground black pepper. Take a moment to stir everything together gently. You want to ensure the chicken is nestled nicely in the mixture.
Once all the ingredients are combined, cover the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours, or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. The key is to cook until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. When done, carefully remove the chicken and place it on a plate to cool for a bit.
While the chicken cools, grab an immersion blender if you have one. Use it to partially blend the soup inside the slow cooker. This gives the chili some nice texture while keeping it hearty. Shred the cooled chicken with two forks and return it to the slow cooker.
Now, it’s time to add cream cheese to make the chili creamy and rich. Stir it gently into the pot until it’s well incorporated. Continue cooking on HIGH for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the cream cheese to soften and blend completely.
While the chili is cooking, prepare to make it even creamier with Greek yogurt. In a small bowl, warm a few spoonfuls of the chili liquid and mix it with the Greek yogurt. This step is crucial to prevent curdling when you add it to the slow cooker.
After warming, stir the yogurt back into the chili, adjusting the seasoning to your liking. Once it’s ready, serve the chili hot. If desired, top each bowl with blue cheese or feta crumbles and sprinkle some thinly sliced green onions on top for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Chili
Making Buffalo Chicken Chili is about savoring each step along the way. The joy begins with gathering all your chosen ingredients and preparing them for your slow cooker. Pay attention to the freshness of the ingredients, which can greatly enhance the flavor.
Once you have everything ready, follow the steps to layer the ingredients in your slow cooker. Be sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, adjusting it based on how thick or thin you want your chili. The blending step adds a nice mouthfeel, so don’t skip it!
Making this dish is very forgiving, and you’ll find that you can season it to your taste as you go. Enjoy the aromas wafting through your kitchen as the chili cooks; it’s a part of the experience!
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Chili
Buffalo Chicken Chili is best served hot, straight from the slow cooker. Ladle generous portions into bowls, allowing everyone to enjoy the comforting warmth. Servings can be made more substantial by garnishing with blue cheese crumbles or feta for a tangy kick.
For an extra layer of flavor and color, thinly sliced green onions add a fresh crunch. Providing crusty bread or tortilla chips on the side is a delightful addition. These can be used for dipping or to scoop up your chili, making each bite a satisfying experience.
Celebrate the simplicity of this dish by setting the table with a casual but inviting atmosphere. Friends and family gather around, ready to dive into this wonderful meal that blends the familiar with the bold.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Chili
Buffalo Chicken Chili is hearty enough to be a main dish, but it pairs wonderfully with various sides to round out your meal. Here are a few great options to consider:
- Cornbread: This sweet and buttery bread complements the spicy flavors of the chili beautifully.
- Salad: A light side salad with greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers cuts through the richness of the chili.
- Tortilla Chips: Offer these for a crunchy side. They are perfect for scooping and adding texture to each bite.
- Rice: A side of white or brown rice can help balance out the flavors if you want something more filling.
These side dishes enhance the overall dining experience and can add variety to your meal.
How to Store Buffalo Chicken Chili
If you find yourself with leftover Buffalo Chicken Chili, storing it is easy! First, allow the chili to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can affect the texture and taste.
Store the chili in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Place them in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. This method allows you to enjoy your delicious chili later without compromising flavor.
When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, simply thaw the chili overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s thoroughly warmed.
Tips to Make Buffalo Chicken Chili
Making Buffalo Chicken Chili can be fun and straightforward with these helpful tips! Use high-quality buffalo sauce for a more pronounced flavor. Don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of sauce according to your taste preference. It can be mild or spicy depending on your cravings!
Shredding the chicken into larger pieces can provide a heartier texture. For variations, add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. They can add nutritional value and beautiful colors to your dish.
If you prefer a thicker chili, consider mashing some of the beans against the side of the slow cooker before serving. This can create a creamier base without adding extra ingredients.
Variation
Buffalo Chicken Chili is versatile and can be easily tailored to your taste. Here are some variations to try:
- Spicy Additions: If you love heat, consider adding jalapeños or even some cayenne pepper to your mix.
- Vegan Option: Swap the chicken for shredded jackfruit and use vegetable broth to make it vegan-friendly.
- Bacon: For a smoky flavor, cook and crumble crispy bacon on top of the chili before serving.
Feel free to get creative with your ingredients, as the base recipe allows for multiple interpretations while maintaining its heartiness.
Best Time to Make Buffalo Chicken Chili
Buffalo Chicken Chili is excellent for any season, but the best time to make it might be during the colder months. When the temperatures drop outside, a warm bowl of chili is the ultimate comfort food.
It’s also perfect for gatherings and parties, especially during the fall and winter months. Think football games or holidays, when everyone gathers to enjoy good food and company.
This dish can be prepared in advance and served to a crowd, making it a practical choice for potlucks or family gatherings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Buffalo Chicken Chili, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a successful dish. One mistake is overcooking the chicken; it should be cooked just until tender for the best texture.
Another common error is under-seasoning. Remember to taste as you go! You want the flavors to be bold, so don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning levels throughout the cooking process.
Finally, be cautious not to skip the blending step. It’s key to achieving the right consistency. This will enhance the overall experience, ensuring it’s neither too thick nor too watery.
Nutritional Notes
Buffalo Chicken Chili is a nutritious option packed with protein from the chicken and beans. It’s also loaded with vitamins from the carrots and tomatoes. Using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream keeps the dish creamy while lowering fat content.
This chili offers a balanced meal, and with the option to adjust portions of ingredients, it can be tailored to fit different dietary needs. It also provides a satisfying source of energy, making it ideal for an active lifestyle.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust cooking times. Frozen chicken might take a bit longer to cook through.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To ramp up the heat, add extra Buffalo wing sauce, jalapeños, or hot sauce to taste when cooking.
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed are gluten-free, but always confirm labels, especially for processed items like sauces and broths.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Chili is a delicious dish that combines bold flavors with heartwarming comfort. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly evening or at a gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. The ease of preparation and the hearty ingredients make it a go-to recipe for many occasions.
Make this dish your own by experimenting with spices and ingredients, ensuring each bowl is filled with warmth and excitement. Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful chili, knowing you’ve created a meal that brings people together.
