This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy kick. Packed with tender shredded chicken, flavorful beans, and a creamy base, it’s a delightful fusion of traditional chili flavors with the bold taste of buffalo sauce. The addition of a ranch-yogurt topping adds a tangy contrast, making each bite wonderfully rich and satisfying. Perfect for those days when you want a simple yet flavor-packed meal, this dish is easy to prepare and cook in your slow cooker. Just set it, forget it, and come back to a warm, hearty, and spicy bowl of goodness. Whether it’s a family dinner or a game-day treat, this chili is bound to be a hit!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 (15-ounce) cans beans, drained and rinsed (black beans or kidney beans work well)
- 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes with garlic
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 (1-ounce) packet ranch dressing mix
- Chopped scallions (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips (for serving, optional)
Directions:
- In a 6-quart slow cooker, mix together the beans, diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, hot sauce, chili powder, and garlic powder. Nestle the chicken breasts into the mixture.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for about 3 hours or on LOW for about 5 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- In a small bowl, stir together the yogurt and ranch dressing mix until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the cream cheese until it is smooth and well combined with the chili. Cover and cook on HIGH for another 30 minutes until warmed through.
- Serve the chili topped with a dollop of the yogurt mixture, garnished with chopped scallions, and paired with tortilla chips, if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 3 hours on HIGH / 5 hours on LOW + 30 minutes | Total Time: 3.5 – 5.5 hours
Kcal: Approx. 360 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
A Slow Cooker Classic: The Best of Both Worlds
Buffalo Chicken Chili combines the best aspects of two beloved dishes: the warm, comforting heartiness of chili and the bold, spicy flavors of buffalo chicken. This unique pairing is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals but also appreciate a creamy, flavorful texture that only a slow-cooked dish can provide. The ease of preparation, thanks to the trusty slow cooker, makes this recipe a standout for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the main benefits of this Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is its convenience. Using a slow cooker means you can set it up in the morning and come home to a fully cooked, aromatic meal waiting for you. It’s essentially a dump-and-go recipe that requires minimal effort yet results in maximum flavor. Plus, slow cooking allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, making the chicken tender and the chili deeply flavorful.
Nutritional Benefits and Versatility
This chili is not just about flavor; it also packs a nutritional punch. Chicken is a great lean protein, making the dish filling without being overly heavy. The beans add extra protein and fiber, helping to keep you full longer and providing a great source of plant-based nutrients. The bell peppers and diced tomatoes contribute a variety of vitamins, especially vitamin C and antioxidants. Even better, the yogurt-based topping, flavored with ranch seasoning, adds creaminess without the added calories of heavy cream or cheese.
The recipe can easily be customized to fit different dietary needs. Want to make it dairy-free? Simply swap out the Greek yogurt for a plant-based version, or omit the cream cheese. Looking for extra heat? Add sliced jalapeños, chipotle powder, or a splash of extra hot sauce. You can even add more vegetables like corn, zucchini, or carrots to boost the nutrient content further.
Perfect for Meal Prepping and Leftovers
Chili is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal meal prep option. The flavors deepen as they sit, making leftovers just as delicious, if not more. You can easily store this chili in the fridge for up to four days or freeze portions for up to three months. It’s a fantastic recipe to have on hand for those days when you need a quick lunch or dinner.
Crowd-Pleaser for Parties and Gatherings
If you’re planning to host a game day gathering, potluck, or casual get-together, Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is sure to please a crowd. Its bold, spicy flavors are reminiscent of buffalo chicken wings, making it a great choice for events where finger foods or hearty, easy-to-serve dishes are a hit. Serve it with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or rolls to offer a variety of dipping and scooping options. It’s a fun twist on traditional chili that’s guaranteed to be a conversation starter.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavors
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It uses pantry staples like canned beans, diced tomatoes, and chili powder. The combination of chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, and ranch seasoning adds depth and flavor without needing to fuss over complex ingredients. This makes the recipe not only cost-effective but also very easy to throw together with ingredients you likely already have on hand.
A Great Balance of Creamy and Spicy
One of the standout elements of this chili is the contrast between the creamy base and the spicy buffalo flavor. The cream cheese melts into the dish, creating a luscious, velvety texture that coats every bite. The hot sauce delivers a fiery kick that is perfectly balanced by the yogurt-based ranch topping, which cools down the heat and adds a tangy twist. This balance makes the chili not only flavorful but also addictively delicious. Each spoonful is packed with a combination of spice, creaminess, and zest.
Hearty Yet Light
While traditional chilis can be heavy and sometimes greasy, this buffalo chicken version offers a much lighter feel without compromising on flavor. Using chicken breasts keeps the dish lean, while the use of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream reduces fat content while adding creaminess. This balance makes it a satisfying yet health-conscious option for chili lovers who want something filling but not overly indulgent.
Kid-Friendly and Adjustable Heat
Though the recipe calls for hot sauce and a bit of spice, it can easily be modified for those who prefer milder flavors. Simply reduce the amount of hot sauce, or use a mild buffalo sauce instead. The creamy elements and the yogurt-based topping also help to tone down the heat, making this a great option for family dinners where everyone’s spice tolerance may vary. Kids love the familiar taste of buffalo chicken, and the shredded chicken is easy for them to eat.
Serving Suggestions for Added Variety
While this chili is fantastic on its own, there are a number of ways to elevate your serving. Here are some ideas:
- Loaded Chili Bowls: Top with shredded cheese, jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips for added crunch and flavor.
- Chili Nachos: Pour over a bed of tortilla chips, sprinkle with cheese, and pop under the broiler until bubbly for an epic nacho platter.
- Baked Potato Topping: Spoon the chili over baked potatoes or sweet potatoes for a filling and hearty meal.
- Buffalo Chicken Chili Tacos: Stuff the chili into soft taco shells or wraps, and top with lettuce, diced tomatoes, and avocado for a fun twist on taco night.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To store the Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. For fridge storage, it will keep well for up to four days. If freezing, divide the chili into portions and store it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the consistency.
Pairing Ideas for a Complete Meal
This chili pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:
- Cornbread or Corn Muffins: The slight sweetness of cornbread is a perfect complement to the spicy chili.
- Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with ranch or blue cheese dressing adds a cooling element to the meal.
- Rice or Cauliflower Rice: Serving the chili over a bed of rice or cauliflower rice makes for a hearty and satisfying bowl.
- Veggie Sticks: Carrot, celery, and cucumber sticks make for a refreshing and crunchy side, echoing the flavors of buffalo chicken wings.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Recipe
Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili is a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a family favorite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, entertaining guests, or simply warming up on a chilly day. With its creamy, spicy, and hearty profile, this chili stands out as a unique twist on the classic dish. Whether you’re a fan of buffalo flavors or simply looking for a comforting yet healthy meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
