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

Scale

1 tbsp (15 g) butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 ribs celery, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups (1.4 L) low-sodium chicken broth
2–3 chicken breasts (about 680 g / 1 ½ lbs, boneless, skinless)
¾ cup (180 ml) cayenne pepper sauce (e.g., Frank’s Red Hot)
1 packet ranch seasoning OR 3 tbsp (24 g) homemade ranch seasoning
1 tsp (5 ml) Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
1 ½ cups (170 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Optional toppings: blue cheese crumbles, green onions, crushed tortilla chips or Doritos

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Instructions

Heat butter in a large pot/Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, cook 30–60 seconds.
Pour in chicken broth and nestle in chicken breasts.
Bring to a gentle boil, cover, and cook 20–25 minutes (flip halfway) until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove chicken, shred with two forks (or a mixer for speed).
Stir buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper into broth.
Add cubed cream cheese. Let melt 3–5 minutes, then stir smooth.
Return shredded chicken to pot, simmer 5–10 minutes.
Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Cook 2–3 minutes more.
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