crockpot buffalo chicken & broccoli

This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken + Broccoli is the ultimate cozy dish, inspired by a similar recipe from Half-Baked Harvest.

Whether you're meal prepping for the week or whipping up something easy for game day, this recipe brings bold flavors with minimal effort.

Think slightly spicy, creamy, and loaded with veggies—plus, it's customizable for dairy-free diets! note: I’m a self-proclaimed “spice wimp” and I did not find this dish overly spicy!

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs (can sub breasts)

• 1 bag pre-chopped broccoli

• 1 chopped yellow onion

• 1 chopped yellow bell pepper

• 1/2 cup hot sauce

• 4 tbsp salted butter

• 6 ounces cream cheese**

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese**

• spice mix

  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika

  • 1 tbsp dried parsley

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 1/2 tsp chipotle chili pepper

  • salt + pepper

• buffalo sauce for serving (optional)

STEPS:

1. layer onion and chicken into the bottom of the slow cooker and sprinkle with spice mix.

2. pour hot sauce + 1/4 cup of water, and add the butter.

3. cook on low for 3-4 hours, or high for 1-2 hours.

4. after cooking time, raise the heat to high if not there already. stir in cream cheese, cheddar, and add broccoli + peppers.

5. cover and cook for 15 mins or until sauce is creamy.

6. option to add buffalo sauce for serving.

***my husband is dairy-free so I substituted Kite Hill Ricotta for cream cheese and a plant-based shredded cheddar cheese from 365 brand. you’d never know the difference!

And that’s it—simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor! Whether you're a buffalo sauce lover or just craving a hassle-free dinner, this dish delivers.

Bonus: it makes amazing leftovers! Feel free to drizzle on extra buffalo sauce if you want an extra kick. Enjoy!