Description
Buffalo Chicken Soup is creamy, cheesy, and boldly spiced with cayenne pepper sauce and ranch seasoning. This one-pot comfort meal combines tender shredded chicken, veggies, and a rich broth for a cozy dinner that’s perfect for game nights, cold evenings, or anytime you need a warm, flavorful pick-me-up.
Ingredients
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1 tbsp (15 g) butter
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
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2 ribs celery, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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6 cups (1.4 L) low-sodium chicken broth
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2–3 chicken breasts (about 680 g / 1 ½ lbs, boneless, skinless)
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¾ cup (180 ml) cayenne pepper sauce (e.g., Frank’s Red Hot)
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1 packet ranch seasoning OR 3 tbsp (24 g) homemade ranch seasoning
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1 tsp (5 ml) Worcestershire sauce
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
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1 ½ cups (170 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Optional toppings: blue cheese crumbles, green onions, crushed tortilla chips or Doritos
Instructions
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Heat butter in a large pot/Dutch oven over medium heat.
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Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, cook 30–60 seconds.
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Pour in chicken broth and nestle in chicken breasts.
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Bring to a gentle boil, cover, and cook 20–25 minutes (flip halfway) until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Remove chicken, shred with two forks (or a mixer for speed).
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Stir buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper into broth.
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Add cubed cream cheese. Let melt 3–5 minutes, then stir smooth.
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Return shredded chicken to pot, simmer 5–10 minutes.
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Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Cook 2–3 minutes more.
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Taste, adjust heat with more sauce if desired, and serve hot with toppings.
Notes
Adjust spice by using less buffalo sauce and adding more later if needed.
Shortcut: Use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking breasts.
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and less cheddar.
Add a splash of cream before serving for extra richness.
Slow cooker method: cook chicken, veggies, broth, and seasonings 6–7 hours on low, then stir in cheeses at the end.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup, Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop, One-Pot
- Cuisine: American