The aroma drifting through my kitchen was like a gentle hug on a chilly evening, drawing me in with promises of warmth and comfort. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili—a dish that marries the robust flavors of classic Buffalo chicken wings with the heartiness of chili, making it the perfect antidote to dreary weather. This meal not only comes together effortlessly but also satisfies hunger with its hearty ingredients and gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can join in the feast. Imagine coming home to a bubbling pot of this delicious chili, ready to warm you from the inside out. Curious how to make this comforting delight? Let’s dive in!

Why is Buffalo Chicken Chili so special?

Hearty, Comforting Flavor: This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili delivers a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings.

Effortless Cooking: With minimal prep and a hands-off slow cooker approach, you can set it and forget it, saving you time—ideal for busy weeknights!

Crowd-Pleasing Dish: It’s a crowd favorite that combines the beloved flavors of Buffalo chicken wings, making it a hit for game nights or family dinners.

Gluten-Free Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-sensitive guests, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy a delicious meal.

Versatile Ingredients: Substitute chicken with turkey or mix in extra veggies like bell peppers for a delightful twist. Check out variations like Mexican Chicken Rice for creative inspiration!

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili Ingredients

For the Spice Mix
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the spices; adjust based on taste preference.
• Chili Powder – Provides the base flavor and warmth; substitute with cayenne for more heat.
• Ground Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy tone; no direct substitutes, but can omit if unavailable.
• Sweet Smoked Paprika – Gives a smoky depth to the dish; regular paprika can be used if necessary.
• Mustard Powder – Contributes tang and depth; can be replaced with prepared mustard (adjust quantity).
• Dried Oregano – Enhances the flavor profile with herby notes; fresh oregano can be used, adjusting the amount.
• Cayenne Pepper – Offers heat; adjust down for a milder taste.
• Onion Powder & Garlic Powder – Impart foundational flavors; can use fresh equivalents if preferred.
• Kosher Salt & Ground Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste.

For the Chili Base
• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing vegetables; can substitute with any neutral oil.
• Yellow Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; can use shallots as a substitute.
• Celery – Adds crunch and flavor; can be omitted for a simpler dish.
• Garlic – Essential for aromatic flavor; substitute with garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
• Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Nutritious base; vegetable broth can make a vegetarian version.
• Great Northern Beans – Contributes heartiness and creaminess; other beans can be used, but soaking times may vary.
• Fire-Roasted Canned Tomatoes – Adds depth and a slight smokiness; regular tomatoes can substitute, but add smoked paprika for flavor.
• Diced Green Chiles – Provides a bit of heat; can be omitted for milder chili.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – Keeps the chili moist and flavorful; can swap for chicken breasts or shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Neufchâtel Cheese (optional) – Creates creaminess in the chili; substitute with regular cream cheese if desired.

Enjoy crafting your own Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili with these carefully selected ingredients, bringing a delightful and comforting meal to your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, chili powder, ground cumin, sweet smoked paprika, mustard powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and ground pepper to create a flavorful spice mix. This aromatic blend is the heart of your Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili, so give it a good whisk to ensure it’s evenly mixed and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together olive oil, diced yellow onion, celery, minced garlic, and your prepared spice mix. Cover the bowl and microwave on high for 4 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the onions are softened and fragrant. This step adds depth to your chili, enhancing the Buffalo flavors as they meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Blend the Beans
While your vegetables are cooking, take half of the great northern beans and combine them with low sodium chicken broth in a blender. Puree until smooth to create a creamy base that will thicken your chili. Pour this bean mixture into your slow cooker; it’ll add richness to your Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili, setting the stage for the other delicious ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Now, drain and rinse the remaining beans and add them to the slow cooker alongside fire-roasted canned tomatoes, diced green chiles, and boneless skinless chicken thighs. Be sure to stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the chicken is well coated with the delicious blend of flavors for your chili.

Step 5: Cook the Chili
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender and juicy. If you’re including Neufchâtel cheese for added creaminess, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to melt into your chili for an irresistible texture.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili has finished cooking, it will be thick and hearty with a vibrant aroma wafting through your kitchen. Serve each bowl topped with your choice of cheese, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges for added brightness. Pair with tortilla chips, cornbread, or over rice for a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili Variations

Feel free to customize your Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili for delightful new twists that excite the taste buds!

Turkey Substitute: Swap chicken for ground turkey for a leaner option without sacrificing taste. It makes for a slightly different texture while still delivering that comforting flavor profile.
Different Beans: Mix up the beans by using black or pinto beans for varied textures and flavors. Each offers its unique creaminess and enhances the chili’s depth.
Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers or corn to amp up nutrition and sweetness, balancing the heat from the spices beautifully. These vibrant additions not only boost flavor but also add color to your dish.
Vegan Version: Replace the chicken with lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for a hearty plant-based option that’s just as filling. For a creamy finish, stir in some coconut milk toward the end.
Spice it Up: Increase the cayenne pepper or add sliced jalapeños for extra heat. This will definitely satisfy those looking for a spice kick right in their chili!
Creamy Touch: Skip the Neufchâtel cheese for a dairy-free version and use cashew cream or coconut yogurt, maintaining that rich, creamy texture without adding dairy.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked sausage or chorizo for an irresistible smoky kick that will make your chili experience even more delightful. This pairing adds warmth and boldness to each bite.
Buffalo Sauce Boost: Stir in your favorite Buffalo sauce right before serving for an extra layer of tangy flavor that enhances the original taste beautifully. Not only does this amp up the buffalo flavor, but it also adds a beautiful pop of color, too.

If you’re in the mood for more chicken recipes, check out our Chopped Chicken Bacon and Peach Glazed Chicken for tasty inspirations!

Make Ahead Options

These Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables and combine the spice mix up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can pre-measure the beans and chicken, keeping them sealed until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply mix the prepped ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic for 6-8 hours on low. This way, you’ll have a hearty and flavorful chili ready with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights so much easier!

Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. This is perfect for enjoying leftover chili on busy nights.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer bags or containers to keep your Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili safe from freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth to revive the creamy texture if needed.

Portioning: Consider portioning out servings before freezing; this makes it easy to enjoy a comforting meal whenever you crave it, without defrosting the entire batch!

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili

Spice Balance: Adjust cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference. Start low to avoid overpowering the dish with spice, enhancing the overall flavor.
Sautéing Vegetables: Microwaving or sautéing vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker boosts flavor and helps achieve a richer taste in your Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili.
Bean Consistency: If you prefer a creamier texture, reserve some cooked beans, mash them, and stir them in at the end. This adds heartiness to the chili.
Chicken Choice: Opt for boneless skinless chicken thighs for tenderness; if you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken works wonderfully too!
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge, or freeze for a quick meal later on—perfect for busy nights!
Serving Ideas: Top with crumbled blue cheese or avocado for extra flavor, and serve with crunchy tortilla chips for a delicious texture contrast.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili

Elevate your meal with scrumptious sides and pairings that perfectly complement the rich flavors of this hearty chili.

Creamy Cornbread: This sweet, fluffy bread adds a delightful texture contrast, perfect for soaking up the chili’s delicious broth.
Tortilla Chips: Their crispy crunch brings a fun element, providing a great way to scoop up chili while adding a savory bite.
Green Salad: A refreshing, lightly dressed salad introduces crispness and balances the spice with a burst of freshness—ideal for a complete meal.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and mellows the heat, making each bite more enjoyable while enhancing the dish’s comforting feel.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy goodness cools the spice and enhances creaminess, creating a luscious topping that beautifully complements the chili.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavors of this bread make it a comforting companion, perfect for sopping up the chili’s broth.
Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crunch provide an earthy note, balancing the bold flavors of the chili.
Cold Beer or Cider: A cold drink like a hoppy beer or crisp cider brings refreshment and helps cool the palate, creating a delightful pairing for a cozy night in.

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right ingredients for my Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose fresh produce like firm yellow onions and bright green celery. Look for chicken thighs that are plump and without any dark spots. Use canned tomatoes that are labeled fire-roasted for a smoky flavor—this truly elevates the dish!

How do I store leftovers from my Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili?
Very simple! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, it’s best to freeze the chili, where it will maintain its flavor for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers to avoid freezer burn!

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili? What’s the best method?
Yes, you can freeze it! To freeze, first, wait for the chili to cool completely. Then, portion it out into freezer bags or containers, making sure to leave some space for expansion. Label the bags with the date, and lay them flat in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

What should I do if my chili is too thick?
If your chili turns out thicker than you like, no worries! Simply stir in some chicken broth or water, a little at a time, until you’ve reached your desired consistency. If you like it creamier, try blending in a few more beans or even adding a splash of Neufchâtel cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Absolutely! To keep your Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili gluten-free, just ensure all your ingredients, like broth and canned tomatoes, are certified gluten-free. It’s a hearty meal everyone can enjoy without concern—feel free to serve it with gluten-free tortilla chips or cornbread!

Can I make Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prep the ingredients the night before by chopping vegetables and mixing the spice blend. Store them in the fridge, and simply add everything to your slow cooker in the morning. By dinner time, you’ll have a warm and comforting meal waiting for you!