If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with vibrant veggies, look no further than the best buffalo chicken and vegetables crock pot recipes. These slow cooker dishes combine the spicy tang of classic buffalo sauce with tender chicken and an array of nutritious vegetables, making for a comforting yet healthy dinner option.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or simply want a fuss-free recipe that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas, these crock pot buffalo chicken meals are sure to delight your taste buds and simplify your cooking routine.
Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you juicy chicken infused with spicy buffalo goodness, alongside perfectly cooked vegetables that soak up every bit of sauce. Plus, crock pot recipes are great for busy households — just set it and forget it!
Ready to spice up your weeknight dinners with these delicious buffalo chicken crock pot recipes? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These buffalo chicken and vegetables crock pot recipes deliver on multiple fronts. First, they are incredibly easy to prepare — just toss ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work magic.
The buffalo sauce adds a zesty kick that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and veggies without overpowering them.
Secondly, the recipes are versatile. You can swap vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference, making it perfect year-round.
The slow cooker method ensures the chicken remains tender and juicy, while the vegetables become perfectly tender but not mushy.
Lastly, these recipes are healthier alternatives to traditional buffalo wings and fried sides. With fresh vegetables and lean chicken, you’re getting a balanced meal that’s full of flavor and nutrition.
It’s a win-win for taste and wellness!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup buffalo hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, bell peppers, broccoli florets)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions, fresh parsley
Equipment
- Slow cooker/crock pot (6-quart size is ideal)
- Mixing bowl for buffalo sauce
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or fork for shredding chicken
- Serving plates or bowls
Instructions
- Prepare the buffalo sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the buffalo hot sauce and melted butter until fully combined. Set aside.
- Layer the crock pot: Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the mixed vegetables on top.
- Add the chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Place the chicken over the vegetables in the crock pot.
- Pour the sauce and broth: Pour the buffalo sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables. Add the chicken broth to keep everything moist and tender.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir to coat with the buffalo sauce and vegetables.
- Final simmer: Let the mixture cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on low to absorb flavors.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and if desired, drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over the top for a creamy contrast.
Tips & Variations
“For a healthier twist, swap butter with olive oil or use a light version of buffalo sauce.”
- Vegetable swaps: Feel free to add zucchini, cauliflower, or green beans for variety.
- Spice level: Adjust the buffalo sauce quantity according to your heat preference, or add a dash of cayenne pepper for extra kick.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream just before serving.
- Meal prep: This recipe stores well in airtight containers for up to 4 days, perfect for lunches or quick dinners.
- Make it vegan: Try substituting the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and use vegan butter and buffalo sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 35 g |
Carbohydrates | 12 g |
Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
Fat | 15 g |
Saturated Fat | 6 g |
Sodium | 900 mg |
Vitamin A | 80% DV |
Vitamin C | 60% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This buffalo chicken and vegetables crock pot recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over steamed rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or alongside warm cornbread for a comforting meal.
For something lighter, enjoy it with a fresh green salad or roasted sweet potatoes.
To cool down the heat, include a side of celery sticks and carrot sticks with a creamy dip like ranch or blue cheese. This combo is reminiscent of classic buffalo wing accompaniments but much healthier and more filling.
Feeling adventurous? Try these recipes alongside other crowd-pleasers like our Awesome Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes for Easy Meals or add a vibrant grain salad from our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals collection.
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken and vegetables crock pot recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy a spicy, flavorful meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the hard work, melding the zesty buffalo sauce with tender chicken and wholesome vegetables, creating a dish that’s both hearty and healthy.
Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, these recipes offer flexibility, convenience, and a delicious kick of heat that everyone will appreciate.
Perfect for chilly evenings or busy days, this recipe invites you to experiment with your favorite veggies and spice levels. Don’t forget to explore more comforting, healthy recipes like our Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals to keep your meal planning exciting and nutritious.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Buffalo Chicken and Vegetables Crock Pot Recipe
Description: A spicy and flavorful buffalo chicken dish cooked slowly with fresh vegetables. Perfect for an easy, healthy meal with a kick.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT4H
Total Time: PT4H15M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 2 cups baby carrots
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crock pot.
- Pour buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing over the chicken.
- Add garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add baby carrots, broccoli, bell pepper, and onion around the chicken.
- Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
- Shred the chicken with two forks and mix with vegetables and sauce before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 35 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 12 g
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