This easy slow cooker recipe yields tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a zesty buffalo sauce, delivering a spicy, flavorful meal. Perfect for busy days, it requires minimal prep and cooks hands-off. Serve the chicken in crisp lettuce wraps or over cauliflower rice for a healthy, low-carb option that’s as satisfying as it is convenient.

Ingredients

Imagine coming home to the irresistible aroma of tender, spicy buffalo chicken, ready to be devoured. This slow cooker recipe saves you time and delivers a healthy, protein-packed meal perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re meal-prepping or feeding a crowd, these buffalo chicken thighs will become a staple in your kitchen.

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup buffalo sauce (look for a low-sugar or sugar-free option)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the thighs dry with paper towels and season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Sear the Chicken (Optional): For extra flavor, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step is optional but recommended.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker. If you didn’t sear them, you can still proceed by placing them directly into the slow cooker.
4. Add Buffalo Sauce: Pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated. If using honey or a sweetener, mix it into the buffalo sauce first.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. OPTIONS: Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the sauce. Alternatively, transfer the chicken thighs to a cutting board and cut them into chunks before returning them to the sauce.
7. Serve: Serve the buffalo chicken in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option or over cauliflower rice for a hearty meal. Add toppings like diced celery, blue cheese crumbles, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.

Healthy Serving Suggestions

For a refreshing and low-carb option, serve the buffalo chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. Romaine or butter lettuce works excellently, complementing the spicy chicken’s crunch. If you’re craving something more substantial, try serving the chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice. It’s a fantastic way to soak up the flavorful sauce while keeping the meal light and healthy.

Beyond lettuce wraps and cauliflower rice, this buffalo chicken is incredibly versatile. Toss it into a salad for a protein boost, spoon it over a baked sweet potato for a balanced meal, or wrap it in a whole-grain tortilla if you’re not watching carbs.

Tips and Tricks

• Make It Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, use less buffalo sauce or mix it with chicken broth to dilute the spiciness.
• Add Veggies: Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding diced bell peppers or onions to the slow cooker with the chicken.
• Creamy Twist: For a creamy buffalo chicken, stir in a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

With its bold flavors and effortless preparation, this Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Thighs recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent on the go, or someone who loves good food, this dish delivers on all fronts. So, dust off your slow cooker and prepare to spice up your dinner routine!

Estimated Nutritional Information (Per 4 oz Serving)

• Calories: 230 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 0g (assuming sugar-free buffalo sauce)
  • Net Carbs: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg (varies significantly based on buffalo sauce and added salt)

My Takeaway

This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Thighs recipe is a fiery, fuss-free triumph that brings bold flavor and wholesome nutrition to your table with minimal effort. The tender, juicy chicken thighs, drenched in tangy buffalo sauce, offer a protein-packed punch that’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or satisfying your spicy cravings any day of the week. With eight versatile servings, you can enjoy it in lettuce wraps, over cauliflower rice, or customized with your favorite toppings, making it as healthy or hearty as you like. Simple to prepare and endlessly adaptable, this dish will become a go-to in your kitchen, proving that comfort food can be both delicious and good for you!

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