Are you ready to spice up your week with a meal that you do not have to slave away at in the kitchen? This Buffalo Chicken Bowl is packed with tender chicken infused with the perfect blend of spicy buffalo sauce. Served over a bed of rice, this Buffalo Chicken Bowl is the perfect make-ahead meal ready to change your world. Join me in this blog post, where we will prepare this flavorful Buffalo Chicken Bowl freezer meal together.

[MFD Email Sign Up – Something Free

Buffalo Chicken Bowl Freezer Meal

This Buffalo Chicken Bowl is packed with nutrients, tender chicken infused with the perfect blend of spicy buffalo sauce. Served over a bed of rice, this Buffalo Chicken Bowl is the perfect make-ahead meal ready to change your world.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 4

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings

Equipment

1 Slow Cooker
1 gallon freezer bag
1 High speed blender

Ingredients

2-3 lbs Chicken breasts (or Chicken thighs)

Buffalo Sauce (Blend Together)

1/2 cup Frank's Hot Sauce
1 tbsp Coconut aminos
1 tsp Apple cider vinegar
2 tsp Garlic powder
2 tbsp Olive oil
3/4 tsp Dried dill
1 tsp Onion powder
1/2 tsp Salt

For Serving:

2 cups Uncooked rice

Instructions

Prep | Freezer Directions

Prepare a gallon freezer bag, labeling according to your preferred method.
Add sauce ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. (You may have to scrap sides once or twice).
Add all ingredients, except for serving, to labeled gallon freezer bag.
Seal bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to three months.

Slow Cooker | Cooking Directions

Thaw the freezer bag in fridge 12-24 hours before cooking.
Dump the contents of the freezer bag into a slow cooker.
Cook on low 4-6 hours.
Remove chicken, shred, then mix back into buffalo sauce in the slow cooker.
Serve over a bed of rice.

Notes

Coconut aminos are used as a soy sauce substitute for those with gluten sensitivity or anyone following a specific diet. Soy sauce can be used as a replacement.

If desired use garlic powder instead of garlic cloves. 1 garlic clove = 1/2 tsp garlic powder.

This recipe is a buffalo sauce so it does have a kick to it.

Keyword Buffalo Chicken Bowl, Buffalo Chicken Bowl Freezer Meal Recipe, Easy Chicken Recipes, Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Recipe, Slow cooker Chicken Recipe

Don’t forget to Pin this recipe for later!

[MFD Email Sign Up – Something Free]

Your Questions Answered

Comment below if you have any questions we didn’t answer.

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Bowl Freezer Meal

Comfort Food: The warm, spicy flavors make it a cozy meal option, especially during colder months.
Economical: The ingredients are affordable, making it a budget-friendly family meal.
Portion-Controlled: You can easily measure out portions, helping to manage serving sizes.
Kid-Friendly: Adjust the spice level, and it’s a hit with the little ones too.
Stress-Free: Knowing dinner is already made can take a load off your shoulders.
Freezer-Friendly: Prepare a large batch and freeze it for those nights when you don’t feel like cooking.

Equipment Needed To Make Easy buffalo Chicken Bowl Recipe

1 Slow Cooker
1 gallon freezer bag
1 High speed blender

What to Pair with Your Make-Ahead Buffalo Chicken Bowls

Side Dishes:
Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Creamy Coleslaw
Garlic Butter Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Desserts:
No-Bake Cheesecake bites
Chocolate Chip Cookies
MIni Key Lime Pies

Mocktails:
Virgin Pina Colada
Cucumber Mint Lemonade
Strawberry Basil Spritzer

Popular Substitutions and Additions

Substitutions:
Frank’s Hot Sauce Substitute: Use 1/2 cup of Sriracha for a different kind of heat and a slightly sweeter flavor profile.
Coconut Aminos Substitute: Replace the 1 tbsp of coconut aminos with low-sodium soy sauce or tamari. Both are freezer-friendly and will add a similar umami depth to the dish.
Uncooked Rice Substitute: Swap out the 2 cups of uncooked rice for quinoa. Quinoa cooks up fluffy and has a slightly nutty flavor,

Additions:
Frozen Corn: Add 1 cup of frozen corn kernels to the dish. The sweetness of the corn pairs well with the spicy buffalo sauce and adds a bit of texture.
Frozen Broccoli Florets: Stir in 1 to 2 cups of frozen broccoli florets. They hold up well when frozen and reheated, adding a nutritious green element to the bowl.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt into the dish when heated, adding a creamy richness that complements the buffalo flavor. Use as a topping when you serve!

Best Way To Store Healthy Buffalo Chicken Freezer Meal Leftovers?

When you are ready to store your leftover Buffalo Chicken Bowl, make sure that you begin by allowing your recipe to cool to room temperature. This prevents condensation and freezer burn when stored.

You may also want to divide the leftovers into individual portions to make reheating easier later on. When ready to store, transfer leftovers into airtight containers or ziplock bags.

How Long Will Buffalo Chicken Bowl Freezer Meal Recipe Last In the Fridge?

When you have properly stored your leftovers in a storage device and allowed your leftover to cool to room temperature, your leftovers will remain fresh in the fridge for three to five days.

Can I Freeze Spicy Buffalo Chicken Bowl?

We designed this recipe to be a raw freezer meal, so we recommend prepping this recipe raw, freezing, and cooking when it is needed. To do this, blend up the sauce ingredients, and then place sauce and chicken in a freezer bag for storage.

If you have already cooked your meal, and you are needing some longer storage, the freezer is a great option. Know that the more times you freeze, thaw, reheat your leftovers, the more likely your food is to change flavor and texture.

To store in the freezer, allow your recipes to cool to room temperature, portion out for easy reheating, then store in a freezer safe bag, or glass container. Place the portions in the freezer for up to three months.

How To Reheat Quick Buffalo Chicken Freezer Recipe?

When you are ready to reheat your leftovers, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until thoroughly warmed. If your meal is frozen, it is best to allow the meat to thaw in the fridge overnight for even reheating.

What goes well with Buffalo Chicken Bowls?

Buffalo Chicken Bowls are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of side dishes and beverages. For a well rounded meal, consider serving them with crisp celery sticks or a fresh green salad to balance the bold flavors of the buffalo sauce.

A side of roasted vegetables also adds a healthy, satisfying crunch. If you are looking for something more heaty, try pairing the bowl with loaded mashed potatoes or cheesy garlic bread. If you are looking for some mocktails that are unique, make a cool cucumber lime spritzer that complements the spicy kick of the buffalo sauce. Adding sides and beverages makes for a very fulfilling meal.

How do you eat Buffalo Chicken Dip?

Buffalo Chicken Dip is a crowd pleaser that can be enjoyed in many different ways. The most popular way to eat it is by skipping it up with tortilla chips or crackers, which provide a crunchy twist to the creamy, spicy dip.

You can also serve it with a variety of sliced vegetables like celery, carrots, or bell peppers for a healthier option. For a more filling snack, spread the dip on a baguette slice or use it as a topping for baked potatoes. It is also delicious on sandwiches or wraps.

Why is Buffalo Sauce so popular?

Buffalo sauce has gained popularity due to its unique combination of flavors. It is a balance between tangy, spicy, and savory, making it irresistible and versatile for many dishes, including freezer meals like Buffalo Chicken Bowls.

The sauce typically combines a hot sauce with vinegar, and butter, resulting in a creamy texture with just the right amount of heat. Its bold flavor enhances everything it touches, appealing to a variety of people and can be adjusted to suit different heat preferences and dietary needs.

What regional variations exist in Buffalo Chicken Bowl Recipes?

Buffalo Chicken Bowl Recipes can vary significantly depending on the region, reflecting on local ingredients that are available as well as local tastes. In the south, you might find versions that incorporate more local sides like Mac and Cheese or Collard greens.

In states of the midwest, Buffalo Chicken Bowls often include ranch dressing or blue cheese, adding a cooling contrast to the spicy buffalo sauce. In the west, the bowls might be more health-focused, featuring quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.

Each regional variation incorporates unique twists on the classic Buffalo Chicken Bowl, including other regional ingredients that are more available.

What substitutions can be made to a Buffalo Chicken Bowl to make it healthier?

To make a Buffalo Chicken Bowl healthier, consider these simple substitutions. Instead of white rice, use brown rice or cauliflower rice. This adds fiber and reduces the carbs of the dish. For a leaner protein option, substitute chicken breast for chicken thighs, this cuts down on fat content.

You can also replace traditional buffalo sauce with a homemade version using Frank’s hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and some olive oil, which eliminates preservatives and unhealthy fats. Incorporating more vegetables as well increases the nutrients of your meal.

Can I prepare a Buffalo Chicken Bowl in advance?

Yes, you can absolutely prepare a Buffalo Chicken Bowl in advance, making it an ideal option for a freezer meal. To prepare in advance, mix the buffalo sauce in a blender, then combine with the chicken in a labeled gallon freezer bag.

When you are ready for heat, thaw in the fridge overnight and get your slow cooker ready. Preparing Buffalo Chicken Bowls in advance saves time during busy weekdays and ensures you always have a delicious home-cooked meal ready to go.

How Spicy is a typical Buffalo Chicken Bowl?

The spiciness of a typical Buffalo Chicken Bowl can vary based on the amount of buffalo sauce used and the specific brand of hot sauce in the recipe. Buffalo Chicken Bowls generally have a moderate spice level, enough heat for spice lovers without overwhelming the palate.

If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix in a bit of ranch dressing. On the other hand, if you want a more fiery kick, add extra hot sauce or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper.

How can I make a Buffalo Chicken Bowl Kid-Friendly?

To make a Buffalo Chicken Bowl more kid-friendly, start by reducing the amount of Buffalo Sauce to lower the heat level. You can also mix in a bit of ranch or blue dressing, which helps cool down the spice and adds a creamy texture that kids often enjoy!

Another option is to serve the chicken separately from the rice and let your child add as much or as little as they like. With these adjustments, you can create a freezer meal that the whole family will love.

How do I make a dairy-free buffalo chicken bowl?

Making a dairy-free Buffalo Chicken Bowl is easy with some simple swaps. Replace butter in the buffalo sauce with a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or olive oil. For creaminess, you can use coconut milk or dairy-free ranch dressing instead of traditional dairy-based options.

Many buffalo sauce brands are naturally dairy-free, but it’s always a good idea to check the label. Serve the dish over your choice of grains and vegetables, and you have a flavorful dairy free freezer meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.

What is the best type of Chicken to use for a Buffalo Chicken Bowl Recipe?

For a buffalo chicken bowl recipe, the best type of chicken to use is boneless/skinless chicken breasts. It cooks quickly, shreds easily, and absorbs the buffalo sauce well, ensuring a flavorful bit every time.

Chicken breasts is also a leaner option, making it a healthier choice for this dish. You may also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you are looking for a more tender, juicer texture. They have a bit more fat, which can also add richness to the dish

If you like this recipe here are some other Chicken recipes you’re sure to love: