Introduction
As a busy mom, finding time to prepare a delicious and nutritious meal can often feel like an uphill battle. Between school runs, work commitments, and countless activities, it’s no wonder that many parents are constantly searching for quick and easy dinner solutions. Enter the crockpot buffalo chicken recipe! This dish is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a favorite for families across the country.
In this article, we’ll walk through the steps to create this mouthwatering buffalo chicken in your crockpot. Whether you’re looking for a hearty sandwich filling, a topping for your favorite salad, or simply a way to enjoy the classic buffalo flavor, this recipe has you covered. Let’s dive in!
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours on low
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 hamburger buns or tortillas (for serving)
- Optional toppings: celery, blue cheese, shredded lettuce, sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks, stirring to combine with the sauce.
- Serve the buffalo chicken on hamburger buns or tortillas, adding your choice of toppings.
Why Use a Crockpot?
Crockpots are a lifesaver for busy moms. They allow you to prepare meals in advance and let the slow cooker do all the work. Simply add your ingredients in the morning, set the timer, and come home to a warm, ready meal. This crockpot buffalo chicken is especially great because it requires minimal effort and yields maximum flavor. You can even customize it to suit your family’s tastes!
Meal Prep Tips
For those who love to meal prep, this buffalo chicken recipe is perfect. You can make a large batch and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days. It also freezes beautifully, so consider doubling the recipe and freezing half for a later date. Just be sure to cool the chicken completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.
Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about crockpot buffalo chicken is its versatility. Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:
Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches
Serve the shredded chicken on toasted hamburger buns with your favorite toppings. Blue cheese crumbles and sliced celery make excellent additions.
Buffalo Chicken Wraps
For a healthier option, wrap the buffalo chicken in a whole wheat tortilla with some lettuce and diced tomatoes.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Transform the chicken into a salad by serving it over a bed of greens. Add diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
Buffalo Chicken Nachos
Layer tortilla chips with shredded buffalo chicken, cheese, and jalapeños for a fun and indulgent appetizer.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this delicious meal, storing them is a breeze. Place the buffalo chicken in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or return it to the crockpot on low until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in your crockpot, but they may require additional cooking time. Make sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I make this recipe without ranch dressing?
Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can omit the ranch dressing or substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
How spicy is this buffalo chicken?
The spice level of the buffalo chicken can vary depending on the type of buffalo sauce you use. For a milder version, opt for a sauce labeled as “mild.”
What can I serve with buffalo chicken?
Buffalo chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, including carrot sticks, celery, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with chips for a fun game day snack!
Conclusion
This crockpot buffalo chicken recipe for busy moms is an absolute game-changer for weeknight dinners. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a delicious meal ready when you need it most. Whether you choose to serve it on a bun, in a wrap, or atop a salad, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
So the next time you’re juggling a million tasks, remember that dinner doesn’t have to be a hassle. Grab your crockpot, whip up this buffalo chicken, and enjoy a stress-free meal with your family. Happy cooking!
