Spicy Buffalo Chicken Red Lentil Chili
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with this hearty and flavorful Buffalo Chicken Red Lentil Chili! Combining the bold flavors of buffalo sauce with the comforting warmth of chili, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for game day, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. Packed with protein-rich chicken and fiber-filled red lentils, it’s a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and even easier to love.
This recipe is a fusion of classic buffalo chicken flavors and the heartiness of chili, creating a unique dish that’s both spicy and comforting. Whether you’re a fan of buffalo wings or just love a good bowl of chili, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why This Buffalo Chicken Red Lentil Chili Recipe Works
This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find items—just a pot and a few basic ingredients. Second, it’s highly customizable. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste, add extra veggies, or even swap the chicken for another protein. Finally, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!
Plus, this chili is packed with nutrients. The red lentils add a boost of fiber and protein, while the chicken keeps it lean and satisfying. It’s a meal that’s as good for you as it is delicious.
What’s In Buffalo Chicken Red Lentil Chili?
The magic of this chili lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Breast: Lean and protein-packed, it’s the star of the dish.
- Red Lentils: High in fiber and protein, they add heartiness and thickness to the chili.
- Buffalo Sauce: The key to that signature spicy, tangy flavor.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Form the base of the chili, adding richness and acidity.
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth and helps cook the lentils.
- Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and celery provide a flavorful foundation.
- Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and paprika enhance the flavor profile.
- Toppings: Blue cheese crumbles, green onions, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for the perfect finish.
How To Make Buffalo Chicken Red Lentil Chili
This recipe is straightforward and comes together in just a few simple steps. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Sauté the chopped onions, celery, and garlic until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Add the diced chicken breast to the pot and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Add the Base Ingredients
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and red lentils. Mix well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Chili
- Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 5: Add the Buffalo Sauce
- Stir in the buffalo sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with blue cheese crumbles, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Sides for Buffalo Chicken Red Lentil Chili
Pair your chili with these delicious sides:
- Cornbread: Sweet and crumbly, it’s the perfect complement to the spicy chili.
- Celery Sticks: A classic buffalo wing accompaniment that adds a refreshing crunch.
- Garlic Bread: Great for soaking up every last bit of chili.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with ranch dressing to balance the heat.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I Make This Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for extra lentils or add diced vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How Spicy Is This Chili?
The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce you use. For a milder version, choose a mild buffalo sauce or reduce the amount. For extra heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months.
Other Recipes To Try
- Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos: A vegetarian twist on buffalo flavors, perfect for taco night.
- Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili: A hearty, meatless chili with a touch of sweetness.
- Spicy Lentil and Sausage Soup: A comforting soup with a kick of spice.
- Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers: A creative way to enjoy buffalo chicken in a low-carb format.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Red Lentil Chili
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 lb 450g chicken breast, diced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup red lentils rinsed
- 1 can 14 oz crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toppings: blue cheese crumbles green onions, ranch dressing
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onions, celery, and garlic until softened.
- Cook Chicken: Add chicken and cook until no longer pink. Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add Base Ingredients: Stir in lentils, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25-30 minutes.
- Add Buffalo Sauce: Stir in buffalo sauce and simmer for 5 more minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with blue cheese, green onions, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with extra lentils or veggies and use vegetable broth.
- Make Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Toppings: Get creative with toppings like avocado, sour cream, or jalapeños.
Nutrition
Enjoy your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Red Lentil Chili! Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!