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Toss this sauce on frozen chicken in your slow cooker, and watch it become the life of the party

Effortless Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the zesty kick of buffalo chicken, especially when it’s made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken recipe is perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors but is too busy to spend hours in the kitchen. Made with frozen chicken breasts, this dish is not only convenient but also a crowd-pleaser. It’s great for game day, a casual dinner, or even when you need something easy to whip up for meal prep for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This fiery dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic touch, serve it with some crunchy celery sticks and creamy blue cheese dressing to balance the heat. It also goes great in a wrap or as a topping for a zesty buffalo chicken salad. If you’re looking for something a bit heartier, toss it on a hoagie roll for an epic buffalo chicken sandwich or serve it over a bed of steamy white rice.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (frozen)
  • 1 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker

  • Place the Chicken: Place the frozen chicken breasts into the slow cooker.

2. Make the Buffalo Sauce

  • Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the buffalo wing sauce, chicken broth, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Cook the Chicken

  • Pour the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
  • Cover and Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

4. Shred the Chicken

  • Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks, mixing it well with the sauce.
  • Soak in Sauce: Let the shredded chicken soak in the sauce for an additional 30 minutes on low to enhance the flavors.

Variations & Tips

1. Spice It Up

  • Extra Heat: For those who like it extra spicy, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few drops of extra hot sauce to the mix.

2. Lighten It Up

  • Healthier Option: If you’re looking for a lighter version, substitute the butter with Greek yogurt to thicken the sauce after the chicken is cooked and shredded.

3. Add Fresh Herbs

  • Herbal Twist: Try adding different herbs like dill or cilantro for a fresh twist.
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Serving Suggestions

1. Classic Pairings

  • Celery Sticks and Blue Cheese Dressing: Serve with crunchy celery sticks and creamy blue cheese dressing for a classic buffalo chicken experience.

2. Sandwiches and Wraps

  • Buffalo Chicken Sandwich: Toss the shredded buffalo chicken on a hoagie roll with lettuce and tomatoes for an epic sandwich.
  • Buffalo Chicken Wrap: Wrap it in a tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese for a quick and delicious meal.

3. Over Rice

  • Buffalo Chicken Bowl: Serve over a bed of steamy white rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh chicken breasts instead of frozen. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as fresh chicken may cook faster.

2. What Can I Substitute for Buffalo Wing Sauce?

You can use your favorite hot sauce mixed with a bit of melted butter and vinegar. This will mimic the tangy and spicy flavor of buffalo wing sauce.

3. How Can I Make It Less Spicy?

Reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce or mix in some additional chicken broth or cream. This will dilute the heat while maintaining the flavor.

4. Can I Cook This Recipe on the Stovetop?

Yes, you can cook this on the stovetop. Simmer the chicken and sauce in a covered pot over low heat until the chicken is cooked through, then shred it.

5. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

6. Can I Freeze Buffalo Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze shredded buffalo chicken. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

7. What Other Dishes Can I Make with Leftover Buffalo Chicken?

Use leftover buffalo chicken to make buffalo chicken quesadillas, pizza, or stuffed bell peppers. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, zesty flavors but doesn’t have the time to spend in the kitchen. Its simplicity and versatility make it a great addition to your meal rotation, whether you’re preparing for game day, a family dinner, or meal prep. Try out the variations and serving suggestions, and enjoy the delicious, fiery goodness of buffalo chicken made easy!