When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot quite like a warm, spicy bowl of chili. Whether you’re a classic beef-and-bean kind of person or more of an adventurous eater looking to try something new, there’s a type of chili out there for everyone. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 different types of chili recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more.
From hearty, meat-based options like our Classic Beef Chili with Kidney Beans and Texas-Style No-Beef Chili to vegetarian and vegan-friendly alternatives like Vegetarian Three-Bean Chili and Vegan Pumpkin Chili, there’s a chili recipe on this list that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate. So grab your apron, fire up your stove or slow cooker, and get ready to dive into the world of deliciously spicy chilies!
Classic Beef Chili with Kidney Beans
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and water; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 30-60 minutes
White Chicken Chili with Green Chilies
A creamy and flavorful twist on traditional chili, this recipe combines the comfort of chicken with the spicy kick of green chilies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) great northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 2 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 large green chilies, chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onions, and garlic in a little oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, white beans, chicken broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream and chopped green chilies.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetarian Three-Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian chili that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Texas-Style No-Beef Chili
Get ready to warm up with this hearty, flavorful Texas-style chili that’s perfect for a cozy night in! This vegan twist on the classic recipe is made without beef, but still packs plenty of punch from its rich, savory broth and tender veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in kidney beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors meld together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili
A hearty and aromatic chili that combines the richness of turkey with the deep smokiness of chipotles, perfect for a cozy gathering or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, and shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers; cook 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and kidney beans; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cincinnati-Style Chili with Spaghetti
Experience the unique flavors of Cincinnati’s signature chili dish by combining rich, meaty broth with spaghetti and a sprinkle of cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot over cooked spaghetti; sprinkle with cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Pork and Hominy Chili Verde
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional chili, this recipe combines tender pork, creamy hominy, and a burst of bright green chili verde sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups hominy (dried corn kernels)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup green chili verde sauce
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the pork cubes in a large pot over medium-high heat, then set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the hominy, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Pour in the chili verde sauce and diced tomatoes; stir to combine.
5. Return the pork to the pot; simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili
This vegetarian chili recipe combines the rich flavors of black beans, sweet potatoes, and spices to create a comforting and nutritious meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the sweet potato and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Lamb Chili with Cumin
Add a bold and flavorful twist to traditional chili with the addition of lamb, cumin, and a kick of heat. This spicy lamb chili is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the lamb in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, and cinnamon; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and crusty bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa and Lentil Chili
This vegetarian chili recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the comforting warmth of lentils, making it a perfect meal for any time of the year. With its rich aroma and deep flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until tender.
3. Add lentils, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, and optional jalapenos (if using).
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili
Looking for a spicy and savory chili recipe that’s perfect for game day or any cold winter evening? This slow cooker buffalo chicken chili is the answer! With its bold flavors and tender chicken, this hearty dish will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, buffalo wing sauce, onion, garlic, and chili powder to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegan Pumpkin Chili
Vegan Pumpkin Chili Recipe
Warm up with this deliciously comforting vegan pumpkin chili recipe! This hearty dish is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening, and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bison Chili with Dark Beer
This rich and flavorful chili combines the robust flavor of bison meat with the depth of dark beer, perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground bison
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup dark beer (such as stout or porter)
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, and shredded cheese for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the bison in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add diced tomatoes, dark beer, and red kidney beans to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Bring chili to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together and the meat is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with your desired toppings (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Chorizo Chili
Warm up with this bold and flavorful chili recipe that combines the rich flavors of chorizo sausage with tender beans, sweet tomatoes, and a hint of smokiness. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a crowd-pleasing addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Mexican chorizo sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the chorizo sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai-Inspired Coconut Curry Chili
Elevate your chili game with this creamy and aromatic Thai-inspired twist! This recipe combines the warmth of curry with the comfort of a classic beef chili.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, coconut milk, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Short Rib Chili
Elevate your chili game with this rich and flavorful short rib recipe, cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the short ribs until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, paprika, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Meat/Stew” button or “Manual” mode with 30 minutes of cooking time at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Fire-Roasted Tomato and Corn Chili
Savor the flavors of summer with this hearty, one-pot chili that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering. Roasting the tomatoes and corn brings out their natural sweetness, balancing the spicy kick from the jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place tomatoes and corn on a baking sheet, drizzle with oil, and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper over medium-high heat until softened.
4. Add roasted tomatoes and corn, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add diced tomatoes, beans, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Korean Gochujang Chili with Tofu
This recipe is a flavorful and spicy take on traditional chili, featuring the bold flavors of gochujang (Korean chili paste) and crispy tofu. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in gochujang, beef broth, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked tofu back into the pan and stir to coat with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your life with these 18 mouth-watering chili recipes! From classic beef and kidney bean combinations to international twists like Korean Gochujang and Thai-inspired coconut curry, there’s something for every palate. Discover unique flavor profiles like smoky chipotle turkey and spicy lamb cumin, or go vegan with pumpkin chili. Explore regional specialties like Cincinnati-style spaghetti and Texas-style no-beef chili. And don’t miss the slow cooker buffalo chicken and Instant Pot short rib options for busy days. Whether you’re a chili newbie or a seasoned pro, there’s a recipe here to satisfy your cravings.