Easy Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken: The Ultimate 5-Ingredient Recipe for Effortless Meals & Game Day
Craving that iconic Buffalo flavor without all the fuss? This incredibly easy Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken recipe is your answer! Made with just five simple ingredients, this dish is an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights, preparing meals in advance, hosting game day gatherings, or bringing a crowd-pleasing option to any potluck. Forget complicated steps and long ingredient lists; this recipe delivers tender, flavor-packed shredded chicken with minimal effort, making it a staple you’ll turn to again and again.
Why This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Recipe Is a Game-Changer
As someone who grew up in Buffalo, New York, I can confidently say that Buffalo chicken anything holds a special place in my heart. While classic Buffalo Chicken Wings are undeniably delicious, they aren’t always the most practical choice for everyday meals or large gatherings. The good news? You can achieve all the fiery, tangy goodness of Buffalo chicken in a far more versatile and convenient form: pulled Buffalo chicken made right in your slow cooker!
This recipe transforms chicken into a tender, shreddable delight infused with classic Buffalo flavor, perfect for a multitude of dishes. It’s truly a “dump and go” meal – simply combine your ingredients in the crockpot, set it, and let the slow cooker work its magic. This hands-off approach frees up your time, allowing you to focus on other tasks while a delicious, aromatic meal simmers to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe promises satisfying results with incredibly little fuss. It’s ideal for weekly meal prep, ensuring you have a flavorful protein ready to go for salads, sandwiches, or wraps, or as a centerpiece for your next casual get-together. After you master this batch, why not try my salsa shredded chicken for another easy slow cooker favorite?
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Shredded Buffalo Chicken
One of the best aspects of this Buffalo Chicken recipe is its minimal ingredient list. You literally dump all five core ingredients into your crockpot and let it do the rest. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this flavor-packed dish:
- Boneless Chicken Breast or Thighs: This forms the protein foundation and star of our dish. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a lean choice that shred beautifully. However, chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and tend to stay even more moist during slow cooking due to their higher fat content. You can use either boneless chicken breasts or thighs, or even a combination of both, depending on your preference and what you have on hand. Aim for about 2 pounds to yield plenty of shredded chicken for meals throughout the week.
- Frank’s RedHot Hot Sauce: This is the non-negotiable ingredient for authentic Buffalo flavor! Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce provides that signature tangy heat without being overwhelmingly spicy. Its balanced flavor profile is what makes Buffalo sauce truly special. While other cayenne pepper sauces can be used, Frank’s is widely considered the gold standard for a reason.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish. While the recipe suggests 4 cloves, feel free to “measure with your heart” – if you’re a garlic lover, don’t hesitate to add more! Minced garlic works best as it distributes its flavor throughout the sauce as it cooks.
- Ghee or Butter: This ingredient is crucial for adding richness, moisture, and a silky texture to the Buffalo sauce. Ghee (clarified butter) is an excellent choice for its nutty flavor and higher smoke point, but unsalted butter works perfectly fine and adds that classic, indulgent Buffalo flavor. It helps prevent the chicken breast from drying out and creates a more cohesive sauce.
- Dried Spices: A simple blend of onion powder, salt, and black pepper provides a fundamental layer of flavor that complements the hot sauce beautifully. Onion powder adds a subtle savory sweetness, while salt and pepper enhance all the other ingredients. You can also consider a pinch of garlic powder if you want extra garlic flavor without peeling more cloves, or a dash of smoked paprika for an added smoky note.
How to Make This Easy Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken
The beauty of this recipe lies in its sheer simplicity. You’ll be amazed at how little effort is required to produce such a flavorful and versatile dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Begin by placing your boneless chicken breasts (or thighs, or a mix) at the bottom of your slow cooker. Then, add the Frank’s RedHot hot sauce, minced garlic cloves, ghee or butter, and the dried spices (onion powder, salt, and pepper) over the chicken. Give everything a quick stir to ensure the chicken is well coated with the sauce and spices.
- Cook to Perfection: Cover your slow cooker with its lid. Cook on HIGH for 2-4 hours or on LOW for 5-6 hours. The cooking time will vary slightly depending on your slow cooker model and the thickness of your chicken. The chicken is ready when it is incredibly tender and can be easily shredded with a fork. It should practically fall apart when you touch it.
- Shred and Toss: Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board or in a large bowl. Using two forks, shred the chicken into desired pieces. Alternatively, for super-fast shredding, you can use a hand mixer directly in the pot (be careful not to splatter!). Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stirring it into the flavorful Buffalo sauce. Let it simmer on low for another 20-30 minutes, allowing the chicken to fully absorb the delicious sauce and flavors. This step is key for moist, flavorful shredded chicken.
- Serve and Enjoy: Taste the chicken and adjust seasonings if needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or a splash more hot sauce for an extra kick. Once seasoned to your liking, your Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken is ready to be served in any of the delicious ways suggested below!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs for this recipe instead of breasts?
- Absolutely! If you prefer chicken thighs, they work wonderfully in this recipe. Chicken thighs tend to be more forgiving in the slow cooker, staying incredibly moist and tender due to their higher fat content. I often combine both chicken breasts and thighs if I don’t have enough of one. You can substitute thighs for breasts without changing the cooking time, making it a simple swap based on your preference or what you have available. The rich flavor of thighs pairs beautifully with the tangy Buffalo sauce.
How to store and reheat leftovers?
This crockpot shredded chicken is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make a batch in advance and store it for future meals. Ensure the chicken is shredded and completely cooled before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating:
- Stovetop Method: For best results, reheat the buffalo chicken in a saucepan over medium heat. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of buffalo sauce, chicken broth, or even a little water to help keep it moist and revive the flavors. Stir occasionally until heated through.
- Microwave Method: You can also use the microwave for quick reheating. Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-60 second intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Be aware that microwaving can sometimes slightly dry out the chicken, so add a little liquid if needed.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker?
Yes, you can! For a quicker cooking time, you can use an electric pressure cooker like an Instant Pot. Place all ingredients in the inner pot. Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 10-12 minutes for chicken breasts (or 15 minutes for thighs), followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Then, shred and toss as instructed.
How can I adjust the spice level?
The beauty of homemade Buffalo chicken is that you can tailor it to your palate! If you prefer it milder, you can reduce the amount of Frank’s RedHot slightly or add a tablespoon of butter or cream cheese at the end to mellow out the heat. For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper along with the other spices, or increase the amount of Frank’s RedHot hot sauce to your liking. You can also serve with extra hot sauce on the side for those who want to amp up the heat individually.
Creative Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken
The versatility of this Shredded Buffalo Chicken recipe is truly one of its greatest assets. Once you have a batch ready, the possibilities are endless! Here are some of my personal favorite and highly recommended ways to serve it, ensuring there’s an option for every craving and occasion:
- Buffalo Chicken Salads: My personal favorite way to enjoy this chicken is over a fresh, crisp salad. Combine it with mixed greens, chopped celery, carrots, and a drizzle of my dairy-free ranch dip or Whole30 Caesar dressing for a healthy and satisfying meal. The coolness of the dressing perfectly balances the chicken’s heat.
- Stuffed Baked Potatoes: Load this flavorful chicken into fluffy baked potatoes or sweet potatoes (buffalo chicken stuffed sweet potatoes are fantastic!). Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, chives, and maybe a sprinkle of blue cheese for a hearty, comforting meal.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb and refreshing option, spoon the buffalo chicken into crisp lettuce cups. Add a few diced cucumbers or shredded carrots for extra crunch.
- Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas: A game-day favorite! Spread the shredded chicken onto tortillas, sprinkle with cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, and grill until golden and gooey. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
- Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls/Spring Rolls: Combine the chicken with a little cream cheese or shredded cabbage, roll into egg roll wrappers, and bake or air fry until crispy. Perfect for football parties or as a fun appetizer.
- Creamy Buffalo Chicken Dip: While the recipe doesn’t include cream cheese, you can easily turn this into a dip! Simply mix the shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, a bit more hot sauce, and some shredded cheddar or mozzarella. Bake until bubbly and serve with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or crackers.
- Buffalo Chicken Tacos or Sliders: Pile the chicken into small tortillas or slider buns. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing for quick and easy crowd-pleasing meals.
- Mac and Cheese Topping: Elevate your favorite mac and cheese by stirring in or topping it with this spicy shredded chicken. It adds a delicious kick and a boost of protein.
- Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches or Wraps: Serve the chicken warm on toasted buns with a slice of provolone, or wrap it up in a large tortilla with lettuce, tomato, and a creamy dressing for a satisfying lunch.
- Buffalo Chicken Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with the shredded buffalo chicken, shredded cheese, and bake until melted. Top with diced green onions, jalapeños, and a drizzle of ranch or sour cream.
- Buffalo Chicken Pizza: Use the shredded chicken as a topping on your homemade or store-bought pizza crust. A base of ranch dressing instead of tomato sauce, topped with mozzarella, red onion, and the buffalo chicken makes for a unique and delicious pizza.
Truly, anything you can add chicken to, you can definitely add this Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken to for a little extra heat, tang, and incredible flavor. It’s a versatile foundation for countless meals.
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
This recipe thrives on simplicity, and that extends to the equipment you’ll need. A reliable slow cooker is key. I personally use my 3-quart slow cooker for this recipe, which is perfect for smaller batches or if you’re cooking for 2-4 people. If you’re feeding a larger crowd or prefer to make more for meal prep, a 6-quart or larger slow cooker would be ideal. As mentioned earlier, if you have an electric pressure cooker, like an Instant Pot, you can utilize its slow-cooker function and follow the same instructions, or use the pressure cook setting for a faster turnaround.
Other Buffalo Chicken Recipes to Make
If you love the bold flavors of Buffalo chicken as much as I do, you’re in luck! There are many exciting ways to incorporate this beloved profile into your cooking. Here are some other fantastic buffalo chicken recipes to inspire your next meal:
- Whole30 Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
- Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
- Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Wings
- Buffalo Tuna Stuffed Avocado
- Whole30 Buffalo Chicken Tenders (Air Fryer)
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken
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Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless chicken breast or chicken thighs – for best results, use a combo of both for flavor and moisture
- 1 cup Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce – the classic choice for authentic Buffalo flavor
- 4 garlic cloves – minced, or measure with your heart for extra garlicy goodness
- 1/3 cup ghee or unsalted butter – for richness and to keep chicken moist
- 1 tablespoon onion powder – adds savory depth
- salt and pepper – to taste, adjust at the end of cooking
Instructions
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Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker. Top with Frank’s RedHot sauce, minced garlic cloves, ghee or butter, and onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to ensure all chicken pieces are coated evenly.
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Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 2-4 hours or on LOW for 5-6 hours. The chicken is ready when it is fork-tender and shreds easily. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker.
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Once tender, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker (you can use tongs) and shred it using two forks. Alternatively, for speed, you can shred it directly in the pot using a hand mixer. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and toss it thoroughly with the rich Buffalo sauce. Allow it to cook on low for an additional 20-30 minutes to absorb all the wonderful flavors.
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Taste the chicken and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or hot sauce if desired. Serve warm over your favorite salad, stuffed in a wrap or baked potato, or however you choose to enjoy this delicious Buffalo chicken!
Notes
One serving is approximately 4 ounces of shredded Buffalo chicken.
For an extra creamy texture, you can add 2-4 oz of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking, stirring until melted and combined.
Nutrition
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