Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that packs a punch of flavor, then you’ve got to try my buffalo chicken chili recipe spicy easy! This chili is a delightful blend of tender shredded chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and hearty beans, all simmered together to create a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors. Seriously, it’s like a hug in a bowl! Plus, it comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something spicy and satisfying. Trust me, your taste buds are going to thank you for this one!
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Chili Recipe Spicy Easy
- 1 lb shredded chicken – I love using rotisserie chicken for ease, but any cooked chicken will do!
- 2 cups chicken broth – This adds a rich base to the chili. You can use homemade or store-bought, whatever you have on hand!
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained – These add protein and heartiness; don’t skip rinsing them to get rid of any excess sodium!
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained – Sweet corn complements the spiciness of the buffalo sauce perfectly.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies – This gives the chili that extra kick and flavor—yum!
- 1 cup buffalo sauce – Here’s where the magic happens! Feel free to adjust this based on your spice tolerance.
- 1 medium onion, diced – A must for that aromatic base; sauté until they’re soft and sweet!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better, right?
- 1 tsp cumin – This earthy spice adds depth to the flavor.
- 1 tsp chili powder – Just the right amount to boost the warmth without overpowering the buffalo sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Always adjust to your liking!
How to Prepare Buffalo Chicken Chili Recipe Spicy Easy
- Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté them together until the onions are soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. This step is so important because it builds the base of flavor!
- Next, add in the shredded chicken to the pot along with the chicken broth. Stir it all together, and let it mingle for a minute.
- Now it’s time to toss in the black beans, corn, and those zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies. Give everything a good stir to combine. This is where the colors and textures start to come alive!
- Pour in the buffalo sauce, and sprinkle in the cumin and chili powder. Stir well to ensure every bite gets that delicious spicy goodness. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld and deepen, making each spoonful extra satisfying. You might want to give it a stir occasionally—just to show it some love!
- Once the chili is thickened and bubbling, it’s time to serve! Ladle it into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, green onions, or even a dollop of sour cream if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every spicy, hearty bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This buffalo chicken chili comes together in just about 40 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time.
- Bold Flavors: The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and savory ingredients creates a flavor explosion that’ll have your taste buds dancing!
- Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein from the chicken and beans, this chili is hearty yet low in calories, so you can indulge without the guilt.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level by varying the amount of buffalo sauce, and there are so many delicious toppings to choose from!
- Great for Meal Prep: This chili stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for lunches throughout the week.
- Family-Friendly: Even the picky eaters will enjoy this dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone can dig into!
Tips for Success
Alright, my friend, here are some of my best tips to help you nail this buffalo chicken chili recipe spicy easy and make it absolutely unforgettable!
- Adjust the Spice: If you’re not a fan of too much heat, start with half the amount of buffalo sauce and taste as you go. You can always add more for that fiery kick!
- Garnish like a Pro: Don’t skip the toppings! Shredded cheese, sliced green onions, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing take this chili to the next level. It adds color and extra flavor!
- Let it Chill: If you have the time, let your chili sit for a couple of hours or even overnight before serving. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Make it a Meal: Serve this chili with some crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping. It makes for a hearty meal that’s even more satisfying!
- Storage Savvy: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Just remember, the chili tends to thicken as it sits, so you might want to add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to loosen it up.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure your buffalo chicken chili turns out perfectly every time. Happy cooking!
Variations on Buffalo Chicken Chili Recipe Spicy Easy
One of the things I love most about this buffalo chicken chili recipe spicy easy is how versatile it is! You can mix and match ingredients to create your own flavor masterpiece. Here are some variations to inspire your next batch:
- Bean Bonanza: Swap out the black beans for kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different texture and taste. Each bean adds its own unique flavor!
- Veggie Power: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn to amp up the nutrition and add some color. You can sauté them along with the onions for extra flavor!
- Spice It Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a bit of diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Just be careful—taste as you go!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten up the dish. Stir in some chopped herbs just before serving for a fresh finish.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some cream cheese or shredded cheddar during the last few minutes of cooking for a creamy, cheesy twist. It makes the chili even more comforting!
- Smoky Flavor: Try adding a bit of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky depth that pairs wonderfully with the buffalo sauce.
Feel free to get creative and make this chili your own! With these variations, you’ll never get bored of this delicious dish. Enjoy experimenting in the kitchen!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep your delicious buffalo chicken chili spicy easy fresh and ready to enjoy again! First off, if you’ve got leftovers (which I hope you do, because it’s even better the next day!), let it cool down a bit before packing it away.
Transfer the chili into an airtight container—this is key for keeping the flavors locked in! It’ll last in the fridge for about 4 to 5 days. Just make sure you label it with the date, so you know when to dig in!
If you want to store it for a longer time, you can freeze it! Just pour the cooled chili into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space at the top since it will expand when frozen. It should keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ve got a couple of options! You can pop it in the microwave for a quick reheat—just make sure to stir it halfway through to heat it evenly. Or, if you have a bit more time, pour it into a pot on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through, and if it looks a little thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Easy peasy!
And there you have it—your buffalo chicken chili spicy easy will be just as tasty the next time you serve it. Enjoy every bite again, my friend!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional information for this delicious buffalo chicken chili recipe spicy easy! It’s nice to know what you’re serving up, right? Here’s a quick breakdown of the typical values per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, especially with different brands of buffalo sauce or chicken broth. It’s always a good idea to double-check your labels if you’re keeping an eye on those numbers. But one thing’s for sure—this chili is a hearty and satisfying option that packs a protein punch!
FAQ About Buffalo Chicken Chili Recipe Spicy Easy
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have frozen chicken, just make sure to thaw it first. You can either microwave it for a quick defrost or let it sit in the fridge overnight. Once it’s thawed, shred it and follow the recipe as usual!
How can I make this chili less spicy?
If you’re looking to tone down the heat, start by using less buffalo sauce. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt when serving, which helps cool down the spice while adding creaminess!
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Of course! Simply swap the shredded chicken for a plant-based protein like chickpeas or lentils. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to beef it up. Just make sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth!
What toppings do you recommend?
There are so many delicious options! I love topping my chili with shredded cheese, diced green onions, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing. Avocado slices, crispy tortilla chips, or even chopped cilantro can really elevate your dish!
Can I use different types of beans?
Definitely! This recipe is super flexible. You can swap out the black beans for kidney beans, pinto beans, or even white beans. Each type will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the chili!
For more information on the health benefits of beans, check out this Healthline article.
For more delicious chicken recipes, visit Dinner Ideas with Chicken.
For a great side dish, consider making Garlic Butter to complement your chili!
Print
Buffalo Chicken Chili Recipe Spicy Easy: 5 Comforting Servings
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A spicy and easy buffalo chicken chili recipe that delivers bold flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shredded chicken
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
- Add the shredded chicken, chicken broth, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes.
- Stir in the buffalo sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of buffalo sauce.
- Top with cheese or green onions for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: buffalo chicken chili recipe, spicy chili, easy chili recipe
