Ingredients Breakdown
For the Chili
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium |
| Celery stalks (diced) | 2 stalks |
| Garlic cloves (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great) | 3 cups |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Buffalo sauce | 1 cup |
| Diced tomatoes (canned, drained) | 1 (15 oz can) |
| Cannellini beans (canned, drained and rinsed) | 1 (15 oz can) |
| Black beans (canned, drained and rinsed) | 1 (15 oz can) |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste) |
For the Creaminess
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese (cubed, softened) | 1 (8 oz block) |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1/2 cup |
For Toppings
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Green onions (sliced) | To taste |
| Crumbled blue cheese or ranch drizzle | To taste |
| Tortilla chips or crusty bread | For serving |
Preparation Overview
| Step | Time Needed |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, diced celery, and minced garlic.
- Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the aroma fills the kitchen.
Step 2: Build the Base
- Add the shredded chicken, chicken broth, buffalo sauce, diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, and black beans into the pot.
- Stir in the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt (adjust seasoning to your taste).
- Stir everything to combine, bringing it to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Simmer the Chili
- Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and develop richness.
Step 4: Add the Creaminess
- After simmering, stir in the cream cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the chili becomes creamy and smooth.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle the creamy chili into bowls.
- Top with sliced green onions, crumbled blue cheese or a ranch drizzle, and serve with crispy tortilla chips or crusty bread on the side.
Pro Tips for Success
✔ Buffalo Sauce: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce depending on how spicy you like your chili. If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the buffalo sauce and add more chicken broth.
✔ Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works great because it’s already cooked and seasoned, saving you time!
✔ Creaminess: For extra creaminess, you can add more cream cheese or even a bit more cheddar cheese.
✔ Simmering: Allowing the chili to simmer for a full 20 minutes lets all the ingredients meld together, giving the chili depth of flavor.
Perfect Pairings
- Side Dish: Tortilla chips, cornbread, or a simple side salad with ranch dressing.
- Beverage: Pair with a cold beer, sparkling water, or a refreshing lemonade to balance the spice.
Health Benefits
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
- Beans: Full of fiber, helping with digestion and keeping you full longer.
- Celery: A low-calorie vegetable, high in vitamin K and antioxidants.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Not Stirring the Cream Cheese Properly: Make sure the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated to avoid clumps.
❌ Overcooking the Beans: Be careful not to cook the beans too long; you want them tender but not mushy.
❌ Under-seasoning: This chili benefits from bold seasoning, so adjust the salt and buffalo sauce to match your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Chili is a creamy, spicy, and comforting meal that’s sure to become a favorite. The combination of buffalo sauce with shredded chicken, beans, and a rich creamy base creates a balanced yet indulgent dish. Perfect for cold days, game days, or anytime you want a hearty, flavorful bowl of chili! Enjoy!
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