Buffalo Chicken Chili is a game-changer in the world of comfort food. Imagine all the bold and spicy flavors of your favorite Buffalo chicken wings transformed into a warm, hearty bowl of chili.
Why We Love This Buffalo Chicken Chili Recipe
There are countless reasons to love Buffalo Chicken Chili, but let’s highlight a few. First off, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it on any occasion, from cozy family dinners to Super Bowl parties. Not only does it appeal to chili lovers, but it also satisfies fans of Buffalo wings with its bold and tangy taste.
Another reason is the simplicity of preparation. With just a handful of ingredients that you often already have on hand, you can create a dish that feels gourmet. It requires minimal effort due to the one-pot cooking method, which means less cleanup for you. Additionally, the recipe allows you to customize your chili with various toppings, giving you the freedom to cater to everyone’s taste.
Finally, Buffalo Chicken Chili is a fantastic make-ahead option. It stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. When you’re looking for a dish that warms the soul and pleases the palate, this chili stands out as a favorite.
Ingredients about Buffalo Chicken Chili
For the best Buffalo Chicken Chili, quality ingredients matter. Here is what you’ll need to cook up this delightful dish.
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into about 3 pieces
- 15 oz can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 28 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 oz can diced green chiles, drained
- 2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce
- 3 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
Garnishes
- Dollop of sour cream
- Drizzle of buffalo wing sauce
- Minced celery
- Minced green onions
- Blue cheese crumbles
- Sprinkle of black pepper
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Chili Directions
Making Buffalo Chicken Chili is not only easy, but it’s also a joy to create. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your chili turns out perfect every time.
Begin with the Base: Grab a large Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot. Heat over medium heat and add the olive oil and unsalted butter. Allow them to warm together, creating a flavorful base.
Sauté the Vegetables: Once the butter is melted, toss in the diced onion and celery. Sauté these for about five minutes or until they soften and become fragrant. This step builds the flavor profile right from the get-go.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for about 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Incorporate the Chicken and Beans: Next, add the cut chicken breasts, drained beans, fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with their juices), drained green chiles, chicken broth, buffalo wing sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir all the ingredients well to combine them into a harmonious mix.
Bring it to a Boil: Increase the heat slightly to bring the pot to a low boil. This helps to meld together those zesty flavors.
Simmer: Once boiling, reduce your heat to medium-low. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Shred the Chicken: After the simmering time, carefully remove the chicken pieces from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken until it’s in bite-sized pieces.
Cream Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk the softened cream cheese with a bit of the broth until you achieve a smooth consistency. Then stir in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until well mixed.
Combine: Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add the cream cheese mixture. Stir everything together until combined, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serve Hot: Your Buffalo Chicken Chili is now ready to be served. Enjoy it hot with your favorite garnishes and sides!
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Chili
Serving Buffalo Chicken Chili is just as enjoyable as making it. This dish is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but you can enhance your experience with various sides and garnishes.
You can start by ladling the chili into individual bowls, ensuring each serving gets a generous amount of shredded chicken and beans. Next, customize your bowls with a dollop of sour cream, a drizzle of buffalo wing sauce, and a sprinkle of minced celery or green onions. For an extra punch, consider adding blue cheese crumbles, which pair excellently with the spicy flavors.
To complement the chili, consider serving it with warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. A side salad filled with fresh greens can also lighten up the meal. It’s a perfect balance that rounds off the rich and spicy flavors of the chili.
Expert Tips: Buffalo Chicken Chili
To elevate your Buffalo Chicken Chili to the next level, here are some expert tips:
- Use Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best texture. If you can, use organic chicken for a healthier option.
- Adjust the Spice Level: The amount of buffalo wing sauce can be tailored to your taste. If you prefer a milder chili, start with less sauce and adjust as needed. Conversely, add extra for a fiery dish.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t shy away from personalizing your garnishes! Avocado slices, diced jalapeños, or crispy tortilla strips can add delightful variety.
- Consider Slow Cooking: If you want to prep ahead, consider using a slow cooker. Brown your vegetables and chicken first, then transfer everything into the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.
- Don’t Skip the Cream Cheese: The cream cheese adds a unique creaminess to the chili that balances with the spiciness. Make sure to incorporate it for a richer flavor experience.
How to Store Buffalo Chicken Chili
After you savor your Buffalo Chicken Chili, you may find yourself with leftovers. Storing it correctly will maintain its deliciousness for days to come. Allow the chili to cool completely before placing it in airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days.
If you want to enjoy it longer, consider freezing it. Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. When stored correctly, it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Variation of Buffalo Chicken Chili
One of the most delightful aspects of Buffalo Chicken Chili is its versatility. Here are some ideas to mix things up:
- Add More Veggies: Include additional vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or carrots for added nutrition and texture.
- Swap the Beans: While great northern beans are delicious, you can use black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for variety.
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian twist, replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini, or use a meat substitute.
- Spicy Alternative: For those craving extra heat, include diced jalapeños or use a spicy buffalo sauce. You can also garnish with spicy salsa or hot sauce for added flair.
- Different Proteins: Try using ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken instead of chicken breasts for a slightly different flavor profile.
FAQ about Buffalo Chicken Chili
If you have any questions about Buffalo Chicken Chili, you’re not alone! Here are the common queries answered:
What is Buffalo Chicken Chili?
Buffalo Chicken Chili is a flavor-packed dish combining traditional chili ingredients with the spicy and tangy flavors found in Buffalo chicken wings. It’s hearty and comforting, yet still has that beloved Buffalo kick.
Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes, Buffalo Chicken Chili is ideal for make-ahead preparation. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.
What can I serve with Buffalo Chicken Chili?
Consider serving it with cornbread, crusty bread, or even over rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Don’t forget the garnishes like sour cream and green onions!
How spicy is Buffalo Chicken Chili?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. If you prefer it milder, reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce and add it gradually to test the heat.
Can I freeze my leftovers?
Absolutely! Make sure to store the chili in airtight containers, and it can last for up to three months in the freezer.
Buffalo Chicken Chili
Equipment
- Dutch Oven
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 Tbsp. unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion diced
- 2 stalks celery diced
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1.5 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into about 3 pieces
- 15 oz. great northern beans drained and rinsed
- 28 oz. fire-roasted diced tomatoes undrained
- 4 oz. diced green chiles drained
- 2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 3 tsp. chili powder
- 2 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 4 oz. cream cheese softened and cubed
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chicken, drained beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), green chiles, chicken broth, buffalo wing sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove chicken pieces, shred them with two forks, and return to the pot.
- In a small bowl, whisk cream cheese with a bit of the broth until smooth. Stir in sour cream until well mixed.
- Add the cream cheese mixture back to the pot and stir until combined. Serve hot with your favorite garnishes.
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