Buffalo Chicken Chili

When game day comes around, you’ll want to have a rolodex of recipes to choose from. Enter this buffalo chicken chili. It’s straightforward to prepare; you only need to combine some fridge and pantry staples in a slow cooker. This hearty soup depends on the spicy kick of buffalo sauce and the richness of cream cheese to evoke a sense of nostalgia. For an extra kick consider topping it off with crumbles of sharp blue cheese.

Buffalo Chicken Chili Ingredients

• Navy beans: We prefer navy beans because they have a creamy and buttery flavor that tastes delicious in this chili.
• Chicken broth: The chicken broth helps create the base of the chili and provides savory flavors.
• Fire-roasted tomatoes: We use canned fire-roasted tomatoes because they give this chili a smoky and spicy flavor.
• Tomato sauce: We pour tomato sauce into the chili base for umami bites.
• Buffalo wing sauce: The buffalo sauce adds spicy and tangy flavors to this chili.
• Seasonings: We add onion and garlic powder to impart savory notes into this chili.
• Chicken: We prefer chicken breast because it absorbs all of the flavors of this chili.
• Cream cheese: The cream cheese melts into this chili, infusing rich and tangy tastes.

Directions   

Step 1: Cook the ingredients in the slow-cooker

In a 4-or 5-quart slow-cooker, combine the navy beans, chicken broth, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, buffalo sauce, onion powder and garlic powder. Then add the chicken and cover the slow-cooker. Cook the ingredients on low for five to six hours—or until the chicken is tender.

Step 2: Shred the chicken and serve

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Next, stir in the cream cheese. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low until the cheese melts—about 30 minutes. Stir everything until blended. Serve with desired toppings.

Buffalo Chicken Chili Recipe Variations

• Use different beans: This chili recipe calls for navy beans but you can use black, pinto or kidney instead. 
• Add scallion cream cheese: Swap the plain cream cheese for a scallion one to enhance the flavor of this buffalo chicken chili. 
• Top with cheese: We recommend topping this buffalo chicken chili with blue cheese. You can also add cotija, cheddar or goat cheese.

How to Store Buffalo Chicken Chili

Allow your buffalo chicken chili to cool and come to room temperature. Then, divide it into smaller portions and store it in an airtight container. Refrigerate the leftovers for three to four days.

Can you make this recipe for buffalo chicken chili ahead of time?

This buffalo chicken chili is ideal for game day celebrations. The nice part? You can make it a few days in advance. Follow the recipe and store it in the refrigerator for three to four days. Reheat it once you’re ready to serve.

Can you freeze this buffalo chicken chili?

You can freeze this chili for up to two to three months. Storing it in a large silicone ice tray makes it easier to reheat the soup. When it’s time to eat, pop the cubes out and melt them in a saucepan.

How long does this buffalo chicken chili last?

You can store buffalo chicken chili in the refrigerator for three to four days or in the freezer for two to three months. 

Buffalo Chicken Chili Tips

What type of buffalo sauce do you recommend for this recipe?

 You can use whichever buffalo sauce you prefer for this chili recipe. We’ve rounded up a list of our go-to hot sauces that taste delicious in this dish. You can also make a homemade buffalo sauce, too.

What else can I add to this buffalo chicken chili recipe?

This recipe is delicious and you can upgrade it further by adding any vegetables hanging out in your fridge like spinach, corn or zucchini. You can also mix in all types of beans, like pinto, black or kidney to boost its hardiness. Another option is to experiment with different cheeses, such as gouda, cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.

What can I serve alongside this buffalo chicken chili soup?

For game day, a bowl of tortilla chips is one of the most delicious and simple sides you can serve with this chili. However, if you want to go the extra mile, bake honey cornbread or buttery rolls to eat with this decadent dish.