Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken
Craving a tasty and effortless meal that will leave you asking for more?
This scrumptious recipe for slow cooker buffalo chicken is the answer. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can have tender and juicy chicken that is great for sandwiches, salads, or even as a standalone dish.
Enjoy the bold and spicy flavors of buffalo sauce, all cooked conveniently in your slow cooker.
Origins
The history of slow cooker buffalo chicken is intertwined with that of the original buffalo chicken wings, invented at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York in the 1960s. The dish was reportedly created by Teressa Bellissimo, who deep-fried chicken wings and then tossed them in a spicy sauce made with hot sauce and butter.
Served with celery and blue cheese dressing, the wings quickly became a hit and spread throughout the country. Eventually, this led to the invention of slow cooker buffalo chicken, which is now widely enjoyed at parties, game days, and other gatherings for its spicy flavor and tender, juicy chicken.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup Buffalo sauce
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Celery sticks and blue cheese dressing, for serving (optional)
Instructions
Let’s get started and whip up some delectable slow cooker buffalo chicken! These easy-to-follow steps will give you a savory meal that will tantalize your taste buds:
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Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This will boost the flavor of the dish.
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In a slow cooker, combine hot sauce, melted butter, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix together these ingredients.
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Put the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker and coat them with the sauce mixture. Make sure each piece is fully coated.
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Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 4-6 hours, until the chicken is tender and can be easily shredded.
The smell of the buffalo sauce combined with the tender chicken will get your taste buds going. Get ready for an amazing taste experience that will hit the spot!
Tips for Cooking
For the best results when cooking slow cooker buffalo chicken, take note of these helpful tips.
| Tips for Cooking | |
|---|---|
| 1. Use skinless chicken breasts | This helps to reduce the fat content of the dish and allows the flavors of the buffalo sauce to penetrate the meat better. |
| 2. Trim excess fat | Before placing the chicken in the slow cooker, make sure to trim any excess fat. This will prevent the dish from becoming greasy. |
| 3. Adjust the spice level | If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce used. Conversely, if you like it extra spicy, add more hot sauce to suit your taste. |
| 4. Shred the chicken | Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it. This will ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. |
Final Thoughts
To ensure a delicious and satisfying meal, keep these tips in mind when preparing your slow cooker buffalo chicken.
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Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. This will ensure that the chicken stays tender and moist throughout the cooking process.
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Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce according to your personal preference for spiciness. If you like it extra hot, add more sauce, and if you prefer a milder flavor, use less.
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Don’t forget to shred the chicken before serving so that the flavors can penetrate every bite and create a tasty and saucy dish.
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Lastly, serve your slow cooker buffalo chicken with your favorite sides, such as celery sticks, carrot sticks, and blue cheese dressing, for a complete meal.
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take to Cook Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken?
Cooking slow cooker buffalo chicken is an easy process that typically takes 4-6 hours. Simply add the ingredients to the slow cooker, set the timer, and let it cook until the chicken is tender and flavorful. This will ensure that you have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen chicken in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. The slow cooker will cook the chicken, giving it a tender and flavorful result. Follow these instructions to ensure your chicken comes out perfectly.
Can I Substitute the Hot Sauce With a Milder Option?
Yes, you can opt for a milder sauce instead. It may affect the flavor of the dish, so adjust the amount according to your preference.
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can substitute boneless chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Slow cooking them will help them absorb the buffalo sauce flavors. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Make Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Ahead of Time and Freeze It?
Yes, it is possible to prepare slow cooker buffalo chicken in advance and freeze it. Simply cook it according to the recipe, let it cool, and place it in an airtight container in the freezer.
