Buffalo Chicken Soup for Cold Days

Name: Buffalo Chicken Soup for Cold Days
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup buffalo sauce; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon celery salt; Salt and pepper to taste; Blue cheese crumbles (for topping); Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I can confidently say that this Buffalo Chicken Soup has become one of my favorite comfort foods for those chilly days. The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and tender chicken creates a warm and thrilling experience in every bite. I love how easy it is to make, and the rich flavors seem to develop even more when it simmers. Perfect for cozy nights in or to serve to guests, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy not just my hunger, but my soul as well.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:06:27.355Z

When I first decided to make Buffalo Chicken Soup, I was unsure how well the flavors of the classic buffalo wing would translate into a soup format. To my delight, the outcome was phenomenal! The key was using a good quality buffalo sauce and allowing the chicken to simmer long enough to absorb all the flavors. The addition of cream at the end makes the soup silky and helps to mellow out the heat.

This recipe is especially rewarding on those cold days when you need something to warm you up from the inside out. Adding a touch of blue cheese crumbles right before serving really elevates the soup and ties together the whole buffalo flavor experience.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of spicy flavor and creamy texture
It's quick to prepare for a warm meal any night of the week
Ideal for using up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken

Perfecting the Soup Texture

When making Buffalo Chicken Soup, achieving the right texture is essential for that comforting mouthfeel. The heavy cream is crucial as it adds richness and helps balance the spiciness of the buffalo sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy milk to reduce calories while still retaining a creamy texture. Additionally, stirring the cream in near the end of the cooking process helps prevent it from curdling.

One tip I love to share is to reserve a bit of the buffalo sauce to drizzle on top just before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal. Remember, you can always adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your personal preference for heat. If the soup becomes too thick after simmering, simply add more chicken broth or a splash of water until you reach your desired consistency.

Garnishing for Flavor and Presentation

Garnishing is more than just about aesthetics; it enhances the flavor profile of your soup. Blue cheese crumbles on top provide a tangy contrast that complements the spicy buffalo flavors beautifully. If blue cheese isn't your favorite, consider substituting it with feta for a similar texture or even a dollop of sour cream to mellow the heat. Chopped green onions bring a fresh crunch and a hint of onion flavor that brightens each bite.

Presentation can significantly elevate your soup. For a fun twist, serve the soup in bread bowls for a rustic feel or alongside crunchy tortilla chips to add texture. This not only makes for a hearty meal but also adds an enjoyable, interactive element to your dining experience. Feel free to get creative with your garnishes, using fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an added color and flavor burst.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup buffalo sauce
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon celery salt
Salt and pepper to taste
Blue cheese crumbles (for topping)
Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, add the chicken breasts to the pot and pour in the chicken broth.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the chicken to simmer for about 20 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.

Combine Ingredients

Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Pour in the buffalo sauce, heavy cream, and celery salt, mixing well. Simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and it's just as delicious reheated!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Buffalo Chicken Soup can be made ahead of time, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep. Once it has cooled completely, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in portioned containers. It will maintain its quality for about 2-3 months in the freezer. Be cautious not to freeze the soup with the heavy cream; instead, add it during reheating for the best texture.

When reheating, avoid rapid boiling as this can cause the cream to separate. Gently heat the soup over medium heat until warmed through, stirring often. If it seems too thick after reheating, adding a little more chicken broth will help restore the desired texture. Always taste and adjust the seasoning after reheating, as flavors can mellow out during storage.

Variations and Substitutions

There are countless ways to customize Buffalo Chicken Soup based on your dietary preferences and flavor profiles. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with hearty vegetables such as cauliflower, bell peppers, and carrots, and increase the amount of chicken broth for added depth. You can also use plant-based buffalo sauce or make your own using hot sauce and a vegan butter substitute for a fully dairy-free version.

If you're looking to spice things up more, consider incorporating additional ingredients like diced jalapeños or a splash of lime juice to brighten the flavors. For a smoky touch, adding smoked paprika will give your soup a unique depth. Don't hesitate to experiment, as this soup is versatile and forgiving to different ingredients and flavors!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?

Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken can save you time and still provide excellent flavor.

→ How spicy is this soup?

The spiciness depends on the buffalo sauce you use. For a milder version, try a less spicy sauce or adjust the amount to your taste.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the soup a day in advance. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You may use half-and-half or a plant-based cream if you want a lighter option.