5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken:
This slow cooker buffalo chicken recipe is a hands-off, weeknight-friendly version of the classic Buffalo flavor that originated in Buffalo, New York. Using just 5 simple ingredients, you get tender, juicy chicken infused with tangy, buttery hot sauce without frying or standing over the stove.
Benefits:
Quick & Easy: Only 5 ingredients and minimal prep for a flavor-packed meal.
Healthy & Lean: Made with skinless chicken breasts and low-sodium broth.
Versatile: Serve in sandwiches, wraps, salads, tacos, or over baked sweet potatoes.
Meal Prep Friendly: Cooks in one pot and keeps well in the fridge or freezer.
Ingredients (Serves 6):
2 ½ – 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup orange buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves garlic, minced)
Directions:
Prepare the slow cooker: Lightly spray or brush the slow cooker with oil to prevent sticking.
Layer the chicken: Place chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. Slight overlap is okay.
Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together orange buffalo sauce, chicken broth, and garlic powder. This keeps the chicken moist and evenly coated.
Add butter & pour sauce: Scatter butter over the chicken, then pour the buffalo sauce mixture evenly on top. Turn chicken once to coat.
Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2 ½–3 hours until chicken shreds easily.
Shred the chicken: Transfer chicken to a bowl or cutting board and shred with two forks. Skim excess fat from the liquid if desired.
Combine & heat: Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat in sauce. Let sit on WARM for 10–15 minutes if you want extra flavor absorption.
Serve & enjoy: Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve on buns, in wraps, over salads, or on baked sweet potatoes.
Tips & Variations:
Adjust the heat: Use mild buffalo sauce for less spice, or add cayenne or hot sauce for extra kick.
Creamy version: Add 2–4 ounces of cream cheese in the last 30 minutes for a rich, dip-like texture.
Alternative cuts: Boneless chicken thighs stay extra juicy; cook time is similar.
Make-ahead meal prep: Keeps 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer. Pack with sauce to retain moisture.
Flavor boosts: Try smoked paprika for subtle smokiness, honey for sweet-heat, or chopped celery for crunch.
Serving Suggestions:
Sandwiches & Sliders: Serve on brioche buns or crusty rolls with coleslaw.
Salads & Bowls: Spoon over romaine, cucumbers, and celery; drizzle with ranch or blue cheese.
Tacos & Wraps: Pair with shredded lettuce, avocado, and tortillas.
Sweet & Savory: Serve over baked sweet potatoes for a sweet-heat combination.
This slow cooker buffalo chicken is perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or meal prep. Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor your family and friends will ask for seconds!
