crockpot buffalo chicken + broccoli

Written By Caite Cutler

(inspired by Half-Baked Harvest)

This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken + Broccoli comes together quick and easy (my cooking core values) - perfect for throwing into the slow cooker on a football Sunday morning or using as an easy weeknight dinner. It’s creamy, high in protein, and has a few extra veggies in there because we could all use them :-)

note: I’m a self-proclaimed “spice wimp” and I did not find this dish overly spicy!

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs (or a mix of both)

  • 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped

  • 3–4 cups chopped broccoli

  • 1 yellow onion, chopped

  • ½ cup hot sauce

  • ¼ cup water

  • 4 tbsp salted butter

  • 6 oz cream cheese*

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar*

Spice Mix:

  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika

  • 1 tbsp dried parsley

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp chipotle chili pepper

  • Salt + pepper to taste

*For dairy-free: sub dairy-free ricotta for cream cheese and plant-based cheddar shreds for cheddar
**Optional: drizzle with extra buffalo sauce for serving
***Omit broccoli and peppers for a more traditional buffalo chicken dip

Instructions:

  1. Layer chopped onion and chicken into the bottom of the slow cooker (onion first, chicken on top). Sprinkle with all seasonings.

  2. Pour in hot sauce and water, then add butter. Cook on low 3–4 hours or high 1–2 hours until the chicken is tender.

  3. Stir in cream cheese, cheddar, broccoli, and bell pepper. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, or until the sauce is creamy and the veggies are just tender.

Leftover Ideas:

  • Buffalo Chicken Wraps: Add the mixture to a whole-grain wrap with lettuce and avocado for an easy grab-and-go lunch.

  • Stuffed Sweet Potatoes: Reheat and spoon over baked sweet potatoes, then top with green onions or a drizzle of ranch.

  • Buffalo Chicken Bowls: Serve over rice or cauliflower rice with a squeeze of lime for a balanced, filling bowl.

Macronutrient Breakdown (per serving, ~6 servings):

  • Protein: 35–38g

  • Carbohydrates: 8–10g

  • Fiber: 2–3g

  • Fat: 18–22g

This combo gives you steady energy and keeps you full thanks to the mix of lean protein, healthy fats, and colorful fiber.

Caite Cutler
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