Buffalo Chicken Soup for Cold Days

Name: Buffalo Chicken Soup for Cold Days
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup buffalo sauce; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 cup carrots, diced; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: blue cheese crumbles for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Buffalo Chicken Soup on chilly days. There's something special about the combination of spicy buffalo sauce, tender chicken, and creamy broth that warms me from the inside out. The depth of flavor in this soup is incredible, and it's surprisingly easy to whip up during a busy weeknight. Each bowl is not only packed with deliciousness but also comes with the added bonus of being a one-pot meal that’s perfect for leftovers. I can't wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:25:27.575Z

When I first crafted this Buffalo Chicken Soup, it was a chilly Saturday afternoon, and I wanted something cozy yet full of flavor. I experimented with different ingredients, and I discovered that adding cream cheese creates a rich and velvety texture. The spice from the buffalo sauce elevates the dish, making it simply irresistible. I like to pair it with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop!

During my many attempts, I've found that using freshly cooked chicken gives the best flavor. Whether it's leftover roast chicken or a quick poach, the results are remarkable. I also recommend adjusting the buffalo sauce to your heat preference—don’t be afraid to play around with it, as it can be tailored to suit your taste. Enjoy every spoonful!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy and creamy flavor profile that warms you up.
Quick to prepare, making it a great weekday meal.
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for cold weather.

      

Cooking with Buffalo Sauce

Buffalo sauce is the star of this soup, contributing a fiery kick that elevates the overall flavor. When selecting your buffalo sauce, choose one that suits your heat preference. If you enjoy a milder taste, opt for a sauce that is labeled as 'mild' or 'medium.' Additionally, if you want to play with flavor, consider mixing in some ranch seasoning or even a splash of hot sauce to create your unique twist.

For a deeper flavor profile, you can allow the soup to simmer longer after adding the chicken broth and buffalo sauce, letting the ingredients meld beautifully. A gentle simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes will enhance the spice's richness and aroma, making the soup even more comforting on cold days.

Cream Cheese and Texture Tips

The cream cheese not only lends a velvety texture to the broth, but it also balances the heat from the buffalo sauce. To ensure smooth integration, make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. Cut it into smaller chunks before adding it to the broth; this helps it melt evenly and prevents any lumps in your soup.

If dairy is a concern, you can substitute the cream cheese with a vegan alternative like cashew cream or a plant-based cream cheese. This substitution maintains the creaminess while accommodating dietary preferences or restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful soup.

Leftover Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Buffalo Chicken Soup keeps well for up to four days in the refrigerator, stored in an airtight container. When reheating, use a medium heat to prevent the cream cheese from separating. If it appears too thick after refrigeration, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

For serving, consider topping the soup with blue cheese crumbles for an extra layer of flavor. Pair it with a crusty bread or serve it with a side of celery sticks and carrot chips for a complete meal. If you're hosting, try presenting the soup in individual bowls garnished with fresh parsley to impress your guests!

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup buffalo sauce
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup carrots, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: blue cheese crumbles for serving

Make sure to adjust the ingredients based on your preference for heat and creaminess!

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Add Garlic and Chicken

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, then add the shredded chicken.

Combine Broth and Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and buffalo sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

Add Cream Cheese

Lower the heat and mix in the softened cream cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated.

Season and Serve

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with blue cheese crumbles if desired.

Enjoy this comforting soup with a slice of fresh bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the soup. If you prefer it milder, use less buffalo sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

In the absence of cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken makes for a quick, equally tasty alternative. Simply shred the chicken and incorporate it directly into the soup at the stage after sautéing the vegetables. It cuts down prep time significantly while still yielding that homemade flavor.

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with chickpeas or white beans. This substitution not only provides protein but also contributes a lovely texture that complements the creamy broth. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavors without the chicken's savory notes.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it convenient for larger gatherings. To double the recipe, simply increase the quantities of each ingredient proportionately, ensuring your pot is large enough to hold the increased volume. An 8-quart stockpot is ideal for a doubled batch.

If you're short on time for meal prep, consider making the soup in a slow cooker. After sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to the slow cooker, set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, and allow the flavors to develop without further supervision.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves you time.

→ How can I make this dairy-free?

Replace the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream alternative and use coconut milk for creaminess.

→ What should I serve with the soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple salad.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.