Buffalo chicken chili: 7 Steps to Spicy Comfort

Name: Buffalo chicken chili: 7 Steps to Spicy Comfort
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb shredded cooked chicken; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup buffalo wing sauce; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

July 29, 2025

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Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: buffalo chicken chili! On those chilly, gray days when the wind howls outside, nothing warms my soul quite like a big bowl of this spicy goodness. The first time I made it, I was trying to impress a few friends during a game night. I wanted something hearty that would fuel our excitement, and wow, did this chili deliver! The combination of shredded chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and tender beans creates a symphony of flavors that just wraps you in a cozy hug. As it simmers on the stove, the mouthwatering aroma fills the house, making it impossible not to sneak a taste or two! I love how easy it is to whip up and how it brings everyone together around the table. Trust me, once you try this buffalo chicken chili, you’ll find yourself making it again and again, especially on those cold, crisp evenings.

buffalo chicken chili - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the best buffalo chicken chili. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb shredded cooked chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for ease, or cook your own chicken fillets for a fresher taste.
2 cups chicken broth: Homemade or store-bought, this adds depth to your chili.
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained: These beans add heartiness and a lovely texture.
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained: They bring a rich flavor that complements the chili perfectly.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Look for those with green chilies for an extra kick!
1 cup buffalo wing sauce: This is where the magic happens! Choose your favorite brand for just the right amount of spice.
1 cup corn kernels: Fresh, frozen, or canned—corn adds sweetness and crunch.
1 onion, chopped: A must for a flavorful base.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything’s better with garlic!
1 tsp cumin: This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor.
1 tsp chili powder: For that extra kick that ties it all together.
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season to your liking!

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create a delicious and comforting bowl of buffalo chicken chili!

How to Prepare Buffalo Chicken Chili

Making buffalo chicken chili is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love how it all comes together. Let’s dive into the steps that will lead you to a hearty, spicy bowl of comfort!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, grab a large pot—this is where the magic happens. Start by heating a splash of oil over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and those delightful aromas fill your kitchen. Wow, you’ll be tempted to dig in already!

Next, it’s time to add the star of the show—your shredded cooked chicken. Stir it into the pot for a minute to warm it through. Then, pour in the two cups of chicken broth and the cup of buffalo wing sauce. This is where you can adjust the spice level. If you like it fiery, don’t hold back! Give everything a good stir, letting those flavors mingle.

Now, it’s time to add the beans, diced tomatoes, and corn. Be sure to drain the beans beforehand; we don’t want any excess liquid diluting our chili! Sprinkle in the cumin and chili powder, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, and once you see those bubbles, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time allows the flavors to deepen and develop, so don’t rush it!

Once the time is up, check the flavor and adjust if necessary. Serve your buffalo chicken chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings, like shredded cheese or fresh green onions. Trust me, this is the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Buffalo chicken chili is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal ready in under an hour!
Comforting Flavors: The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and savory chicken creates a warm, cozy dish perfect for any chilly evening.
Meal Prep Friendly: This chili stores beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Just reheat and enjoy throughout the week!
Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level and add your favorite toppings for a personal touch.

Once you try it, you’ll see why this buffalo chicken chili is a staple in my kitchen!

Tips for Success

To make your buffalo chicken chili truly shine, here are some pro tips that I swear by:

Adjusting the Spice: If you’re feeling bold, add extra buffalo sauce! For a milder flavor, start with half a cup and taste as you go.
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to mix in other beans like pinto or even lentils for a twist. You can also use ground turkey or beef if you prefer.
Serving Ideas: Serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. Don’t forget toppings like avocado, sour cream, or chopped cilantro for a fresh kick!

These little tweaks can elevate your buffalo chicken chili to new heights, making it even more delicious!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed in this buffalo chicken chili! Each serving is estimated to provide around 350 calories, making it a hearty meal option. You’ll find about 10g of fat, with 3g being saturated fat. It’s also a protein powerhouse, delivering approximately 30g of protein per bowl, thanks to the chicken and beans. Carbohydrates come in at about 40g, with a nice 10g of fiber to keep you feeling full. Just a heads-up, the sodium content is around 800mg, so be mindful if you’re watching your intake. These values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of the deliciousness you’re enjoying!

FAQ Section

Can I freeze buffalo chicken chili?

Absolutely! Buffalo chicken chili freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Just let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. I recommend portioning it out for easy meals later on. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Trust me, it tastes just as delicious after freezing!

What toppings go well with buffalo chicken chili?

Oh, the toppings can really take your buffalo chicken chili to the next level! Some of my favorites include:

Shredded cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack melt beautifully on top!
Green onions: They add a nice crunch and freshness.
Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream balances out the heat.
Avocado: Creamy avocado slices bring a rich texture.
Fresh cilantro: For a burst of flavor and color!

Feel free to mix and match to find your perfect combination!

How spicy is buffalo chicken chili?

The spice level of your buffalo chicken chili can be easily adjusted to suit your taste! If you love heat, stick with the full cup of buffalo wing sauce. For a milder version, start with half a cup and taste as you go, adding more if you dare! Remember, the type of buffalo sauce you use can also affect the heat, so pick one that matches your spice tolerance. No matter what, it’s all about finding that perfect balance for you!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover buffalo chicken chili is super simple! Just let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days; it tastes even better as the flavors meld together! If you want to store it longer, feel free to freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to label your containers so you know what’s waiting for you in the freezer.

When it’s time to enjoy your chili again, you can reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just pop it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between. Easy peasy!