Description
Easy Buffalo Chicken Chili is a quick and flavorful dish that combines the spicy tang of buffalo sauce with tender chicken, hearty beans, and classic chili spices. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this comforting chili delivers a bold flavor explosion with customizable heat levels, packed protein, and fiber-rich ingredients for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 to 1.5 pounds chicken breast or thighs, diced or shredded
Sauces and Liquids
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Beans
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
Spices
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until softened and fragrant to build the flavor base.
- Cook the Chicken: Add chicken pieces to the pot and cook until no longer pink on the outside. Shred the chicken in the pot after cooking or use pre-cooked shredded chicken to save time.
- Add Spices and Liquids: Sprinkle chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the chicken and onions. Stir to coat evenly. Pour in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and buffalo sauce, mixing everything together thoroughly.
- Simmer and Combine Beans: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add drained and rinsed beans. Simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to let flavors meld and the chili thicken.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings as desired by adding more buffalo sauce for heat or salt for brightness. Serve hot garnished with optional shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken as a quick shortcut to save time and add flavor.
- Add buffalo sauce gradually to control and customize the spice level.
- Rinse canned beans thoroughly to reduce sodium and avoid metallic taste.
- Simmering the chili uncovered enhances depth of flavor and yields a thicker texture.
- Use fresh garlic rather than garlic powder for enhanced aroma and taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg