Slow-Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili

This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili is the perfect hearty and flavorful meal! Packed with tender shredded chicken, creamy cream cheese, and a kick of buffalo sauce, this easy recipe combines chili seasoning, chicken broth, and spicy cayenne pepper for the ultimate comfort food. Loaded with sweet corn, pinto chili beans, tomatoes, and fresh celery, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Serve with fresh cilantro, crispy tortilla strips, and creamy blue cheese for the perfect finishing touch. Quick to prepare, with minimal prep and cooking time, this slow cooker buffalo chicken chili is a great option for busy weeknights or game day. Gluten-free and full of bold flavors, it’s a delicious and satisfying choice for all your chili cravings!

Ingredients

For the Chili:

• 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 3 large breasts)
• 1.25 oz. McCormick® Chili Seasoning Mix
• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup buffalo wing sauce
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 14.5 oz. sweet corn, drained
• ½ cup finely diced celery
• 16 oz. BUSH’S® Mild Pinto Chili Beans
• 14.5 oz. Hunt’s® tomatoes, drained

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh cilantro
• Crispy tortilla strips
• Crumbled blue cheese

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Base:
   Place the chicken breasts, chili seasoning, cream cheese, chicken broth, buffalo wing sauce, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4 hours (or on high for 2 hours). Once done, use two forks to shred the chicken into thin strips directly in the slow cooker.
3. Add the Remaining Ingredients:
   Stir in the sweet corn, diced celery, pinto chili beans, and drained tomatoes. Mix until well combined.
4. Final Cook:
   Continue cooking for an additional 2 hours on low or 1 hour on high, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve and Garnish:
   Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your choice of garnishes, such as fresh cilantro, crispy tortilla strips, or crumbled blue cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Let your slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day.
• Buffalo Twist: Combines the bold flavors of buffalo wings with hearty chili for a unique and comforting dish.
• Versatile Garnishes: Personalize each bowl with your favorite toppings for added texture and flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for game day, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.

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Tips

• Cream Cheese Softening: Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Shredding Chicken: Use a hand mixer on low speed directly in the slow cooker for quick and even shredding.
• Control the Heat: Adjust the cayenne and hot sauce to suit your spice preference.
• Layering Flavors: Stir the base well before cooking to ensure even seasoning distribution.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for canned chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
• Beans: Experiment with black beans or kidney beans instead of pinto beans.
• Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based cream cheese and omit the blue cheese garnish.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but increase the cooking time slightly and ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding.

Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! Buffalo chicken chili tastes even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, let the chili cool completely, then freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.

What if my chili is too thick?
Add a splash of chicken broth or water and stir until you reach your desired consistency.

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Serving Suggestions

• Sides: Pair with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Game Day Spread: Serve alongside chips and guacamole for the ultimate party food.
• Leftovers: Use as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos for a fun twist.

This Slow-Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili combines the bold, tangy flavors of buffalo sauce with creamy, comforting chili for a dish that’s sure to impress. It’s simple, versatile, and perfect for any occasion!