Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

When I think of easy meals that ignite memories of friends gathered around a table, slow cooker buffalo chicken always comes to mind. Whether it’s a weekend game day, a potluck, or a busy weeknight, this dish never disappoints. It’s spicy, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying. But what pairs perfectly with this zesty chicken? Let me set the stage for you.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken

1. Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and creaminess of coleslaw balance the heat of buffalo sauce well. The refreshing cabbage tones down the spice kick.

2. Sweet Cornbread: A slice of warm, buttery cornbread provides a perfect contrast to the bold flavors of the chicken. It’s sweet, fluffy, and a must-try.

3. Celery and Carrot Sticks: A classic pairing that adds freshness. Slather on some ranch dressing for a crunchy side that cools the palate.

4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes provide a comforting side. Top them with any leftovers from the chicken and drizzle on more sauce for a knockout dish.

Welcome! If your taste buds are ready for an adventure, you’re in the right place. I’m excited to share my journey with slow cooker buffalo chicken. Using a slow cooker means you can prepare this flavorful dish while tackling your day-to-day activities. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’m here to simplify your cooking experience. I believe that every bite should be satisfying and packed with flavor, yet easy enough to prepare without a fuss.

Have you ever marveled at a dish that seems to contain a universe of flavors? That’s buffalo chicken for you. It tells a story, with each ingredient contributing to the finale. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe together and unveil the magic of slow cooker buffalo chicken.

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What is Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken?

Slow cooker buffalo chicken is a simple yet delicious dish made by cooking chicken in a spicy buffalo sauce. The ingredients blend over time, infusing the tender chicken with flavor. After several hours in the slow cooker, you can shred the chicken easily, making it perfect for sandwiches, wraps, salads, or just served with your favorite sides.

What Does It Taste Like?

When you bite into this dish, expect a burst of flavor. The buffalo sauce provides a strong, tangy heat that envelopes the tender chicken. As you chew, the richness from the butter and seasoning creates a well-rounded palate experience. There’s a subtle layer of garlic as well—adding depth without overpowering the star of the show. It’s fiery yet satisfying, perfectly blending comfort and excitement with every forkful.

Why This Recipe Works

Here are four reasons this recipe is a winner:

1. Easy Preparation: You toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker in under ten minutes. No intricate steps, just throw it all in and let it do its thing.

2. Flavor Development: Cooking in a slow cooker allows flavors to meld beautifully. The longer cooking time helps the chicken absorb every ounce of spice and richness.

3. Versatility: This chicken can be served in countless ways. Whether as a taco, sandwich, salad topping, or simply on its own with sides, it’s incredibly adaptable.

4. Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe can easily be made in advance and stored. You can make a big batch, serve it fresh, and then have delicious leftovers to enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken

Gather these ingredients for a delightful dish:

• 2 Tablespoons of unsalted butter: This adds richness and smooths out the heat.
  
• ½ cup buffalo-style hot sauce: Adjust to your preferred spice level.
  
• 1 Tablespoon garlic powder: For a depth of flavor.
  
• 3 Tablespoons ranch seasoning blend: Adding a herby touch and balance to the sauce.
  
• 2 lbs chicken breast, boneless and skin removed: The base of our meal, ensuring it’s tender and juicy.
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by greasing your slow cooker with a bit of cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze later.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, combine the buffalo sauce, unsalted butter, garlic powder, and ranch seasoning. Whisk it until everything blends uniformly.

Step 3: Add Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.

Step 4: Set the Slow Cooker

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for about 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender it becomes.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken. Use two forks to shred it before mixing it back into the sauce for that extra flavor infusion.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your buffalo chicken warm with sides of your choice. You might want to keep extra sauce nearby for drizzling over everything!

Notes

Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you like it spicier, add more buffalo sauce at the beginning or at the end.
  
• Use Tailored Seasonings: Experiment with a homemade ranch blend if you have the spices on hand.
  
• Add Veggies for Texture: Incorporate diced vegetables like bell peppers or onions to spice things up.
  
• Make It a Casserole: Mix the shredded chicken with cooked pasta and cheese for a buffalo chicken casserole.
  
• Freeze Leftovers: If you have any chicken left, it freezes well for up to three months for convenient meals later.
  

Nutrition Information

How to Store the Leftovers?

Let the chicken cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, pack the chicken in freezer-safe bags. When you want to enjoy it again, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as necessary.

Sides for Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken

1. Cornbread: A slice of this can be perfectly complemented by the spicy chicken, balancing out flavors splendidly.

2. Dill Pickles: The acidity and crunch of pickles cut through the heat, providing a crisp contrast.

3. Mac and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese offers comfort alongside the spicy quotient, creating a delightful pairing.

4. Mixed Greens Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a zesty vinaigrette can lighten up the meal beautifully.

Alternative Choices for Ingredients

1. Hot Sauce: If you do not have buffalo sauce, any hot sauce can work, but mix in a bit of butter to replicate that buttery taste.

2. Chicken Thighs: You can substitute breasts with thighs; they tend to be juicier and work just as well.

3. Vegan Alternatives: If you’re looking for a plant-based version, shredded jackfruit or tofu can be substitutes that absorb the flavors wonderfully.

4. Ranch Seasoning: Create your own by mixing dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Conclusion

Slow cooker buffalo chicken has a reliable way of bringing joy to the table, and it perfectly fits into the busy schedules we all juggle. It’s a dish that doesn’t just taste amazing—it’s also straightforward to prepare. Whether you enjoy it in a sandwich, over rice, or straight from the bowl, I guarantee it will become your go-to meal. Trust me; you won’t regret adding this to your cooking repertoire.

Now, let’s get cooking and savor every delightful bite! Enjoy!

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