Buffalo Chicken Chili is the ultimate comfort food for anyone who loves the bold flavor of buffalo wings combined with the hearty goodness of chili. This recipe blends tender chicken, creamy textures, and a spicy kick into a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner, a game-day party, or a potluck, this chili never disappoints.
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Table of Contents
Unlike traditional beef chili, this version uses ground chicken and white beans for a lighter, yet flavorful alternative. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! With simple ingredients and multiple cooking methods—slow cooker, stovetop, or Instant Pot—you can create a satisfying meal with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Award-Winning Buffalo Chicken Chili
- Easy to Make – Just a few simple steps, especially when using a slow cooker.
- Bold and Creamy Flavor – Buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, and cream cheese bring a delicious twist.
- Perfect for All Occasions – Great for weeknights, parties, and everything in between.
- Customizable Spice Levels – Adjust the heat to suit your taste.
- Proven Crowd-Pleaser – Loved by everyone who tries it, earning its award-winning status.
Get ready to discover why this chili is a favorite among both buffalo wing lovers and chili fans.
Ingredients for the Best Buffalo Chicken Chili Crockpot Recipe
Making a flavorful Buffalo Chicken Chili starts with choosing the right ingredients. This recipe combines tender ground chicken, creamy beans, and spicy buffalo sauce to create a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Using a crockpot allows the flavors to develop slowly, resulting in a rich and delicious chili.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Buffalo Chicken Chili
- 1 pound ground chicken – Lean and flavorful, forming the perfect base. Always cook to the right temperature by checking a Chicken Internal Temperature Chart.
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans – Cannellini or great northern beans give the chili a creamy texture.
- 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted tomatoes – Adds depth with a smoky tomato flavor.
- 1 cup corn kernels – Provides a sweet balance to the spicy sauce.
- 2 cups chicken broth – Enhances the flavor and keeps the chili moist.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix – A blend of herbs that complements buffalo sauce perfectly.
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce – The key to that classic buffalo flavor.
- 8 oz cream cheese – Melts into the chili, creating a creamy consistency.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For browning chicken if you’re using the stovetop method.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle layer of flavor.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
- Optional toppings: Blue cheese crumbles, shredded cheddar, chopped cilantro, crushed corn chips.
Ingredient Tips for Buffalo Chicken Chili
Adjust heat by adding more buffalo sauce or a pinch of cayenne.
Use Frank’s Red Hot or a similar sauce for authentic flavor.
Swap cream cheese for a low-fat version if you prefer a lighter chili.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Chili (Slow Cooker, Stovetop, Instant Pot)
Cooking Buffalo Chicken Chili is straightforward and can be adapted to different kitchen appliances. Whether you prefer a slow cooker for convenience, a stovetop for quick preparation, or an Instant Pot for a faster option, this recipe delivers the same rich, spicy, and creamy result.
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili
- Brown the Chicken (Optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet, add ground chicken, and cook until it’s no longer pink. While optional, this step adds extra flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the browned chicken into the slow cooker. Add beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, corn, chicken broth, ranch seasoning, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook Low and Slow: Set the slow cooker to low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Add Cream Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cream cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve: Ladle the Buffalo Chicken Chili into bowls and top with blue cheese crumbles, cheddar, cilantro, or crushed chips.
Stovetop Buffalo Chicken Chili
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook until browned.
- Add Other Ingredients: Stir in beans, tomatoes, corn, chicken broth, ranch seasoning, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Make It Creamy: Add the cream cheese at the end, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- Serve Hot: Add toppings of your choice and enjoy.
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Chili
- Sauté Chicken: Using the Instant Pot’s sauté function, brown the chicken with olive oil.
- Mix Ingredients: Add beans, tomatoes, corn, broth, ranch mix, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Pressure Cook: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then use a quick release.
- Stir in Cream Cheese: After releasing pressure, mix in cream cheese until fully melted.
- Serve Immediately: Dish into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.
For another easy chicken dinner option, check out this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs recipe, which pairs beautifully with side dishes when you want something different.
Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Chili
To make your Buffalo Chicken Chili stand out, a few simple tips can take it from good to unforgettable. These suggestions will help you achieve the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and flavor, no matter which cooking method you choose.
Tips for the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Chili
- Brown the chicken first – While optional in slow cooker recipes, browning enhances flavor.
- Use quality buffalo sauce – The sauce is the star ingredient, so choose one with a rich, tangy heat.
- Adjust creaminess to taste – Add more cream cheese for a richer texture or reduce it slightly for a lighter chili.
- Control the heat – If you like it extra spicy, add more buffalo sauce or a dash of cayenne. For a milder chili, reduce the sauce slightly and balance with extra broth.
- Add toppings for texture – Blue cheese, shredded cheddar, or crushed chips give each bite a delicious crunch.
- Let it rest before serving – Allow the chili to sit for 5–10 minutes after cooking; it helps flavors blend.
Extra Serving Ideas
This chili pairs perfectly with cornbread, crusty bread, or even tortilla chips. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a fresh salad or a lighter side dish. If you enjoy variety in chicken dishes, try making a Chicken Caesar Salad Sandwich on another day for a lighter, yet flavorful option.
Recipe Variations for Buffalo Chicken Chili
One of the best things about Buffalo Chicken Chili is how adaptable it is. You can easily modify this recipe to suit different dietary needs, flavor preferences, or cooking styles. Below are several popular variations you can try.
Healthy Buffalo Chicken Chili
- Use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-sodium chicken broth.
- Swap the ranch seasoning for a homemade blend with herbs and spices to control sodium.
- Add extra vegetables such as diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost nutrition.
For more healthy chicken dinners, you might also enjoy this flavorful Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe, which offers a lighter yet satisfying option.
Buffalo White Chicken Chili Variation
- Replace fire-roasted tomatoes with extra beans and a bit of extra broth for a white chili base.
- Add more cream cheese or even a splash of heavy cream for a smoother, creamier texture.
- Consider topping with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for a milder, creamy flavor.
Low-Carb Buffalo Chicken Chili
- Omit the beans and corn to lower carbs while keeping the delicious buffalo flavor intact.
- Increase the amount of chicken and add low-carb vegetables like cauliflower rice or diced zucchini.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a satisfying, keto-friendly version.
Other Flavor Variations
- Extra Spicy: Mix in chopped jalapeños or add hot sauce to taste.
- Milder Version: Use less buffalo sauce and add a touch more cream cheese.
- Loaded Toppings: Garnish with avocado slices, sour cream, or even crispy bacon.
For another creamy and comforting chicken dish, try the Easy Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas recipe. It’s a perfect companion to your weeknight menu.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Chili
Serving Buffalo Chicken Chili with the right accompaniments can make the meal even more enjoyable. This creamy and spicy chili pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings, allowing you to customize each bowl to your liking.
Perfect Side Dishes
- Cornbread – The slightly sweet flavor balances the heat of the chili.
- Crusty Bread – Great for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Tortilla Chips – Adds a crunchy texture and is perfect for scooping.
- Side Salad – A fresh salad can lighten the meal while complementing the richness of the chili.
Best Toppings to Try
- Blue Cheese Crumbles – For that classic buffalo wing combination.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully into the hot chili.
- Chopped Cilantro – Adds a burst of freshness.
- Crushed Corn Chips – For extra crunch and flavor.
Make It a Complete Meal
Pairing this dish with lighter chicken recipes throughout the week ensures variety in your menu. For example, the Low Carb Kung Pao Chicken Recipe is a great alternative when you want something spicy but lighter on calories.
Storage, Make-Ahead, and Reheating Tips
One of the great things about Buffalo Chicken Chili is how well it stores and reheats. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep or for making ahead when you have a busy schedule.
How to Store Buffalo Chicken Chili
- Refrigerator: Store cooled chili in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. For best results, allow it to cool completely before freezing.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the chili up to the cooking stage and store it in the refrigerator overnight.
- You can also cook it fully, then reheat it on the stove or in the slow cooker the next day—this often enhances the flavors.
How to Reheat
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, stirring halfway through.
- Slow Cooker: Reheat on low for 1–2 hours if serving to a crowd.
For another dish that reheats beautifully and works great for meal prep, try the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole—it’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect for leftovers.
FAQs About Buffalo Chicken Chili
To help you perfect your Buffalo Chicken Chili, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about this recipe. These tips will make cooking easier and ensure delicious results every time.
Can I use shredded chicken instead of ground chicken?
Yes. Shredded chicken works great in this recipe, especially if you have leftover cooked chicken. Just add it to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients.
How spicy is Buffalo Chicken Chili?
The spice level depends on the type and amount of buffalo sauce you use. Start with the suggested amount and adjust to taste. For a milder version, reduce the sauce and add more cream cheese.
Can I make this chili dairy-free?
Yes. Use dairy-free cream cheese and check that your buffalo sauce is dairy-free as well. The texture will still be creamy, and the flavor remains bold.
Can I cook this recipe in advance?
Absolutely. This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Buffalo Chicken Chili
This Buffalo Chicken Chili combines all the flavors you love—spicy buffalo sauce, creamy textures, and tender chicken—into one unforgettable bowl. Whether you prepare it in a slow cooker, on the stovetop, or in an Instant Pot, the result is a rich, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
By following this guide, you’re not just making chili; you’re creating a recipe that’s award-winning in taste and guaranteed to impress. Add it to your weekly meal rotation, and don’t forget to try other delicious chicken recipes like the Easy Creamy White Chicken Enchiladas to keep your menu exciting.
Printable Buffalo Chicken Chili Recipe Card
Here is the easy-to-follow recipe card for Buffalo Chicken Chili, including cooking times and ingredients for quick reference. You can print it or save it for later use.
PrintBuffalo Chicken Chili
A creamy and spicy Buffalo Chicken Chili made with ground chicken, white beans, and tangy buffalo sauce. Perfect for slow cooker, stovetop, or Instant Pot, this award-winning recipe is ideal for weeknights, potlucks, and game day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes (or 6 hours slow cooker)
- Total Time: 50 minutes (or 6 hours 10 minutes)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
1 lb ground chicken
1 can (15 oz) white beans
1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted tomatoes
1 cup corn kernels
2 cups chicken broth
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
8 oz cream cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: blue cheese crumbles, shredded cheddar, cilantro, crushed corn chips
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown ground chicken until no longer pink (optional for slow cooker).
2. Transfer chicken to slow cooker and add beans, tomatoes, corn, broth, ranch seasoning, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. (For stovetop, simmer 30–40 minutes; Instant Pot, cook 10 minutes high pressure.)
4. Stir in cream cheese 30 minutes before serving until fully melted and creamy.
5. Ladle into bowls, add your favorite toppings, and serve hot.
Notes
For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-sodium broth.
To make it spicier, add extra buffalo sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Leftovers taste even better the next day and freeze well for up to 3 months.
For more chicken recipes, check out our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs or Street Corn Chicken Salad Recipe.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
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