Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only, not medical advice. Always consult with a doctor before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.
What Is Buffalo Chicken Chili?
Buffalo chicken chili is a spicy, comforting twist on traditional chili. Instead of ground beef and chili powder, it uses shredded chicken and tangy buffalo sauce for a bold, addictive flavor. It’s everything you love about buffalo wings, heat, richness, and a touch of vinegar, blended into a creamy, hearty bowl of chili. Whether you serve it on a cold night or during game day, this dish hits the mark every time.
If you’ve never tried it before, picture this: tender chicken, beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, a swirl of ranch or blue cheese, and a warming heat that builds just right. It’s cozy without being boring and spicy without going overboard.
Table of Contents
What Exactly Makes Buffalo Chicken Chili Different?
Unlike classic beef chili, this version swaps the usual spices for buffalo wing-inspired flavors. The heart of the dish is hot sauce, Frank’s RedHot is a go-to, combined with shredded or diced chicken and creamy elements like ranch seasoning or cream cheese. Instead of red kidney beans, you’ll often find white beans or even black beans for a mellow contrast to the heat.
The result? A dish that’s bold, zesty, and layered with flavor.
What really makes this chili special is its flexibility. You can make it thick and creamy with dairy or keep it broth-based and spicy. Add celery for crunch, corn for sweetness, or even a swirl of Greek yogurt for richness. You’ll never be stuck in a one-note chili rut again.
Why It Became a Game Day Favorite
Let’s be honest, buffalo chicken chili wasn’t born from tradition. It was born from necessity and cravings. For me, it started when I had leftover rotisserie chicken, a half-bottle of buffalo sauce, and no time to shop. I threw it all in the slow cooker and hoped for the best.
It turned into a crowd-pleaser, especially for casual gatherings or football Sundays. People love chili. People love buffalo wings. Combine the two? Instant hit.
What’s more, it holds heat well, is easy to portion, and keeps beautifully for leftovers. It also pairs effortlessly with chips, cornbread, or even slider buns for a full-on tailgate spread.
If you’re short on time, using precooked chicken works like magic. That’s why I always keep some on hand. Check out this rotisserie chicken ideas post for more inspiration.
And if you’re leaning into smoky or spicy variations, you’ll love the flavors in this chipotle chicken recipe too.
Ingredients & Customizations
Buffalo chicken chili is one of those beautiful recipes where you can toss everything into one pot, walk away, and come back to something mouthwatering. But knowing what goes in, and how you can tweak it, makes all the difference between good and great.
Here’s what you need to get started, plus a few smart swaps and add-ins to make it your own.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this easy buffalo chicken chili, keep these staples on hand:
- Shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken, leftover baked chicken, or even poached chicken works great.
- Buffalo hot sauce – Frank’s RedHot is the classic choice for that signature vinegary kick.
- Canned beans – White beans like cannellini or navy beans are creamy and mild. You can also use black beans for contrast.
- Diced tomatoes – Fire-roasted or regular, canned tomatoes add depth and body.
- Chicken broth – Helps loosen everything up and adds extra flavor.
- Onions & garlic – Aromatics are key. Dice them small so they melt right in.
- Ranch seasoning or cream cheese – Adds richness and cools the spice just enough.
- Spices – A touch of cumin, paprika, and salt pulls it all together.
Want bold garlic flavor? Check out my garlic parmesan chicken pasta, a creamy classic that pairs perfectly with heat.
How to Swap or Adjust Based on What You Have
Cooking should feel forgiving, not rigid. This dish welcomes creativity:
1. Out of chicken?
Use ground chicken or turkey for a different texture. Even shredded tofu or canned jackfruit works for a vegetarian version.
2. Need it dairy-free?
Skip the cream cheese or ranch mix and stir in coconut milk or a splash of non-dairy cream at the end.
3. Lower carb?
Omit beans and bulk up with chopped cauliflower or extra chicken.
4. Want more veg?
Add celery, bell peppers, carrots, or corn. They soften nicely and give a little sweetness to balance the heat.
5. Can’t handle the heat?
Use half the buffalo sauce and add extra broth or tomato. A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt can cool things down too.
6. Crave creamy?
Melt in cream cheese or Greek yogurt at the end. That’s also a great time to add shredded cheddar for bonus richness.
I love to make this chili when I’m craving that creamy comfort factor. And for similar dishes that balance spice and richness, my marry me chicken pasta hits the spot every single time.
How To Make Buffalo Chicken Chili (Stovetop & Slow Cooker)
Buffalo chicken chili is one of the easiest dishes to cook whether you’ve got a lazy Sunday ahead or only 20 minutes to get dinner going. You can make it on the stovetop or let your slow cooker do the work, all you need is a few minutes of prep and some pantry staples.
In this section, I’ll walk you through both methods, then share key tips to help you nail the texture and flavor every single time.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Easy, Flexible Cooking
Stovetop Method (Total time: 30–40 minutes)
- Sauté the base: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil. Add diced onions and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Build the chili: Add shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, beans, tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir in your ranch seasoning or spices.
- Simmer gently: Let everything simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes. The sauce should thicken and the flavors will deepen.
- Finish with creaminess: Stir in cream cheese or Greek yogurt off the heat. Taste and adjust salt, spice, or tang as needed.
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili (Set it and forget it)
- Add everything except cream cheese to the slow cooker. That includes:
- Chicken (raw or cooked)
- Buffalo sauce
- Beans
- Tomatoes
- Broth
- Onions, garlic, and seasonings
- Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Before serving, shred the chicken (if it was raw) and stir in cream cheese or other creamy add-ins.
Want to save even more time? Toss in leftover grilled chicken like this Wendy’s grilled chicken wrap style, you’ll get smoky flavor and a super tender bite.
Pro Tips for Best Results
1. Use pre-shredded rotisserie chicken
This shortcut is your weeknight hero. It melts right into the sauce, soaks up all the flavor, and skips the need to cook raw chicken.
2. Add creaminess at the end
Always stir in dairy after cooking. Adding it too soon can cause curdling, especially in slow cookers.
3. Want it thicker?
Mash some of the beans or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water). Simmer for a few more minutes.
4. Balance the heat
Buffalo sauce varies in intensity. Taste early and often. If it’s too spicy, a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cream cheese works wonders.
5. Don’t skip toppings!
We’ll dive into this in the next section, but toppings take this dish from good to game-changing.
If you’re loving creamy spicy meals like this one, try my chicken salad without celery for a cool, crunchy lunch option, it pairs great with chili leftovers.
Buffalo Chicken Chili
Equipment
- 1 Large pot/Dutch oven Or use a slow cooker or Instant Pot
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- 2-3 cups Shredded chicken Rotisserie or cooked chicken
- 1 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing
- 1 Small onion Chopped
- 2 Celery ribs Diced
- 2 Garlic cloves Minced
- ¾ cup Buffalo wing sauce Like Frank’s RedHot
- 4 oz Cream cheese Softened
- ¼ cup Ranch dressing Or sour cream
- 1 can White beans Drained and rinsed 15 oz
- 1 cup Corn Frozen or canned drained
- 2 cups Chicken broth Add more if you like it soupier
- 1 tsp Paprika
- ½ tsp Garlic powder
- ½ tsp Onion powder
- Salt & pepper To taste
- Optional Toppings
- Green onions Sliced
- Blue cheese Crumbled
- Shredded cheddar Or pepper jack
- Avocado Diced
- Tortilla chips Or cornbread for serving
Instructions
- Sauté the base
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add flavor
- Stir in buffalo sauce, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 1 minute to release flavor.
- Combine ingredients
- Add shredded chicken, beans, corn, and chicken broth. Stir well.
- Simmer
- Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Cream it up
- Stir in cream cheese and ranch dressing until fully melted and creamy.
- Taste & adjust
- Add more buffalo sauce for heat or broth to thin. Adjust salt and spice to your liking.
- Serve & top
- Ladle into bowls and top with your favorites, green onions, cheese, avocado, or chips!
Notes
- For a keto version, skip the beans and corn, and increase the chicken and celery.
- To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese and ranch, or skip them entirely.
- Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- This chili gets even better the next day, perfect for meal prep!
Nutrition
Serving Ideas + Toppings Bar
One of the best things about buffalo chicken chili is how easy it is to serve. You can keep it simple in a bowl, or get creative with game day sliders, wraps, or loaded fries. And don’t even think about skipping the toppings, this is where flavor meets fun.
Whether you’re hosting a crowd or prepping lunches, this dish adapts beautifully.
Creative Ways to Serve Buffalo Chicken Chili
1. Classic Chili Bowls
Serve in deep bowls with your favorite toppings. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but also plays well with sides like cornbread, baked potatoes, or tortilla chips.
2. Chili Sliders
Spoon into slider buns, add a slice of cheddar, and toast lightly. Perfect for parties or picky eaters. I love using leftovers this way, just like my chicken sliders recipe.
3. Stuffed Wraps or Burritos
Wrap up the chili in a large tortilla with shredded lettuce and sour cream. Quick lunch idea with zero boredom.
4. Loaded Baked Potatoes
Split a baked potato and load it with buffalo chicken chili, ranch drizzle, and chopped scallions. The creaminess of the potato soaks up every drop.
5. Over Nachos or Fries
Want bar-style comfort food? Pour hot chili over tortilla chips or waffle fries, then layer on cheese, ranch, or blue cheese crumbles.
6. Chili Dogs
Top grilled hot dogs with chili and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar. Messy? Yes. Worth it? Also yes.
Toppings That Add Texture & Flavor
Think of toppings like accessories, small additions that change the whole vibe.
| Topping | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Sour cream or Greek yogurt | Cools down the heat and adds creaminess |
| Crumbled blue cheese or feta | Adds tang and depth—great with buffalo sauce |
| Chopped green onions | Fresh and crisp—cuts through the richness |
| Tortilla strips or crackers | Crunch factor that everyone loves |
| Hot sauce drizzle | Turns up the volume if you like it spicy |
| Chopped bacon | Smoky and salty—always a win |
For a richer, spicier dish, take a note from my blackened chicken alfredo, flavor layering is everything.
Want a full toppings bar? Set out bowls of everything above, let guests serve themselves, and you’ve got a buffalo chili bar that rivals any restaurant. It’s also a genius move for picky eaters or family dinner nights.
Storage, Reheating & Meal Prep Tips
One of the best things about buffalo chicken chili—besides its flavor—is how well it keeps. Whether you’re making a big batch for game day or meal prepping lunches, this chili holds up like a champ. It reheats beautifully, freezes like a dream, and actually tastes better the next day.
Let’s talk about how to store it, reheat it, and prep it ahead without losing texture or flavor.
How Long It Lasts in the Fridge or Freezer
This chili is one of those dishes that’s even better the next day. Here’s how to store it safely:
- In the fridge:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it cool fully before sealing and refrigerating. - In the freezer:
Freeze portions in sealed containers or freezer bags for 2 to 3 months. Lay flat if using bags to save space. - Reheating from frozen:
Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove or microwave.
Avoid freezing with cream cheese or dairy already mixed in, add those fresh when reheating for best texture.
Best Ways to Reheat Without Drying It Out
Microwave Method:
Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring each time, until hot.
Stovetop Method:
Pour into a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
Slow Cooker Reheat (for large portions):
Place cold chili into the slow cooker and warm on low for 1–2 hours, stirring once or twice.
Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips
Buffalo chicken chili is a meal prep dream. Here’s how to work smarter, not harder:
- Chop all your ingredients the night before. Store them in separate containers.
- Use pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie or shredded leftover grilled chicken for speed.
- Prep a double batch and freeze half for later. Label with date and spice level.
- Portion into single servings for grab-and-go lunches.
For another freezer-friendly spicy dinner idea, check out my chicken riggies recipe. It’s bold, saucy, and just as easy to prep in advance.
Want something cool and flavorful for lunch the next day? My Ina Garten curry chicken salad is perfect as a refreshing companion to leftover chili.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is buffalo chicken chili made of?
Buffalo chicken chili is made with shredded chicken, hot sauce, beans, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and broth. It may also include ranch seasoning or cream cheese for a creamy, spicy flavor.
Is buffalo chicken chili spicy?
Yes, it has a medium heat level from the buffalo sauce. You can reduce the spice by using less hot sauce or adding cream cheese, ranch, or sour cream to mellow it out.
Can I use rotisserie chicken in buffalo chicken chili?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is one of the best shortcuts. It shreds easily and soaks up the buffalo flavor perfectly.
How long does buffalo chicken chili last in the fridge?
Buffalo chicken chili lasts up to 4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best results, let it cool before storing.
Can I freeze buffalo chicken chili?
Yes. It freezes well for 2–3 months. For best texture, freeze it without any dairy, and stir in cream cheese or yogurt when reheating.
Can I make buffalo chicken chili in a crockpot?
Yes, it’s perfect for the slow cooker. Add all ingredients except dairy, cook on low for 6–8 hours, then stir in any creamy additions before serving.
What do you serve with buffalo chicken chili?
It’s great on its own or served with cornbread, baked potatoes, wraps, tortilla chips, or over fries and nachos for a fun twist.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients (especially the hot sauce and seasonings) are certified gluten-free. Always double-check labels.
Final Thoughts on Buffalo Chicken Chili
Buffalo chicken chili is more than just a fun twist on a classic—it’s bold, cozy, and ridiculously simple to make. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping for the week, or just craving something spicy and satisfying, this dish delivers every time.
It’s the kind of recipe that grows with your confidence in the kitchen. Want it hotter? Go for it. Need it dairy-free? No problem. Have leftover grilled chicken or a slow cooker? You’re halfway there.
“I created urdailyrecipes.com to share recipes that are simple, forgiving, and full of heart—and this buffalo chicken chili is all of that. I started cooking in my twenties with zero skills, and every great dish I’ve made since came from a little trial, a little error, and a lot of joy.”
— Lucy White, self-taught cook and founder of urdailyrecipes.com
This chili invites you to make it your own. Add toppings. Use leftovers. Freeze some for later. It’s not just a recipe—it’s a reminder that good food doesn’t need to be complicated to be unforgettable.
If you loved this, explore more of my easy, flavor-packed chicken recipes like:
- Chipotle Chicken Recipe
- Chicken Sliders Recipe
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes
