Perfect for those chilly evenings or game-day gatherings, this Buffalo Chicken Soup packs all the fiery flavors of your favorite wings into a comforting bowl. Packed with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and that signature buffalo kick, it’s a surefire way to warm up any crowd.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of shredded chicken and buffalo sauce creates a deeply flavorful base that’s both spicy and satisfying.
- Adding cream cheese and cheddar gives the soup a rich, creamy texture that balances the heat perfectly.
- It’s incredibly versatile – serve it as is, or top with blue cheese crumbles and green onions for extra flavor.
- This recipe is a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
- It’s easily customizable to suit your heat preference, making it a hit for everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced celery, carrots, and onion, sautéing until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds a flavorful foundation for your soup.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
Pour in the chicken broth and buffalo sauce, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the shredded chicken. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 3: Add the Creamy Elements
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses have completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving that velvety texture we’re after.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer on low heat for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This ensures every spoonful is packed with flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as extra buffalo sauce, blue cheese crumbles, or sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy the spicy, creamy goodness.
Tips and Tricks
For those who love a bit of extra heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or extra buffalo sauce to the soup. If you’re short on time, using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. To make the soup even creamier, blend half of it before adding the cheeses. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, as the buffalo sauce can vary in saltiness. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
Recipe Variations
- For a vegetarian twist, replace the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
- Add cooked pasta or rice to make the soup more filling.
- Swap the cheddar cheese for blue cheese for a more authentic buffalo wing flavor.
- Include diced potatoes for a heartier version of the soup.
- Use different types of hot sauce to vary the heat level and flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything except the cheeses to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cheeses during the last 30 minutes of cooking, stirring until melted.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
If your soup is thinner than you’d like, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the soup. Simmer for a few minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup before adding the dairy products. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove, adding the cream and cheeses as you warm it up.
Summary
This Buffalo Chicken Soup is a creamy, spicy, and utterly delicious twist on classic buffalo wings. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it on game day or just craving something warm and flavorful, this soup hits all the right notes.
