Are you ready to warm up your taste buds with a hearty and delicious bowl of chili? Look no further than this Buffalo Chicken Chili recipe! Bursting with spicy Buffalo wing sauce, tender ground chicken, and an array of flavorful ingredients, this chili is sure to become a favorite comfort food in your home. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot. Join us as we dive into the world of flavorful chili and learn how to make this irresistible Buffalo Chicken Chili.
Ingredients:
Meat:
- 2 lbs ground chicken breast
- 1/2 cup hot Buffalo wing sauce
Produce:
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
Canned Goods:
- 1 can (19 ounces) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) white kidney or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
Condiments:
- 5 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Oils & Spices:
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Push the vegetables to the side of the pot and add the ground chicken. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through.
- Add the Seasonings:
- Stir in the chili powder, ground paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken and vegetables with the spices.
- Combine the Remaining Ingredients:
- Add the Buffalo wing sauce, diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, and drained white beans to the pot. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir until everything is well combined.
- Simmer the Chili:
- Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust Seasonings and Serve:
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Extra Spicy: For an extra kick of heat, add additional hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the chili.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground chicken with plant-based ground meat or extra beans for a vegetarian version of this chili.
- Slow Cooker Method: To make this chili in a slow cooker, simply brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to a slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken? A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. Both meats are lean and will work well with the flavors of the chili.
Q: Can I make this chili ahead of time? A: Yes, this chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Is Buffalo wing sauce the same as hot sauce? A: Buffalo wing sauce is typically a combination of hot sauce, butter, and other seasonings. It has a richer flavor compared to plain hot sauce and is commonly used in Buffalo-style dishes.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this chili? A: Yes, this chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some modifications to make a keto-friendly version of this Buffalo Chicken Chili:
- Beans Substitute: Omit the kidney beans and white beans to reduce the carb content. Instead, add extra vegetables such as diced bell peppers or zucchini.
- Buffalo Sauce: Use a low-carb Buffalo wing sauce or make your own by combining hot sauce with melted butter and spices.
In conclusion, this Buffalo Chicken Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it up for game day, a cozy dinner at home, or meal prep for the week ahead, this chili is sure to satisfy your cravings for something warm and comforting. With its bold flavors and simple preparation, it’s a recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of deliciousness with this Buffalo Chicken Chili!
Share your experience with this recipe and any creative variations you try. Happy cooking!
