As the temperatures drop, there’s nothing like a hearty bowl of chili to warm your belly and your soul. And when it comes to adding some serious heat to your mealtime routine, spicy chilies are just what the doctor ordered. From classic beef-based recipes to innovative vegetarian and vegan options, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering spicy chili recipes to spice up your menu.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring different regions and cultures that have perfected the art of chili-making. Whether you’re a fan of traditional beef chilies or prefer plant-based options with a kick, we’ve got something for everyone. So grab your apron, fire up the stove, and get ready to experience the thrill of cooking with these sizzling spicy chili recipes!
Classic Beef Chili with Beans
Classic Beef Chili with Beans Recipe
A hearty, comforting chili that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering. This recipe is a tried-and-true favorite that combines tender beef, flavorful spices, and creamy beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef 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 softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth; stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegetarian Black Bean Chili
This flavorful chili recipe is a perfect blend of spices, beans, and vegetables, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying vegetarian meal. With minimal prep time and cooking, you can enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, shredded cheese, and cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper over medium heat until tender.
2. Add the cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Chicken Chili with Green Chilies
A creamy and flavorful twist on traditional chili, this recipe combines tender chicken, white beans, and roasted green chilies for a deliciously different spin.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced green chilies
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, green chilies, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the chicken broth and white beans. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chili has thickened slightly.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in the heavy cream to add a creamy touch.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Turkey Chili with Sweet Potatoes
Spicy Turkey Chili with Sweet Potatoes: A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional chili that combines tender turkey, sweet potatoes, and a kick of heat from chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, red bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chipotle pepper, diced tomatoes, and sweet potato. Add water as needed to cover the ingredients.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Slow Cooker Three-Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe perfect for a chilly day or a weeknight dinner. This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and simmered to perfection, making it a great option for busy households.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 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
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and add the remaining ingredients. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Texas-Style No-Beef Chili
This Texas-style chili recipe is a twist on the classic, substituting beef with tender and flavorful chicken. The result is a rich, smoky, and spicy dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 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 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cincinnati-Style Skyline Chili
Experience the bold flavors of Cincinnati’s iconic chili dish with this simple recipe. This beloved regional specialty is characterized by its thin, rich broth and unique blend of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground allspice
– 1/2 tsp ground cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 cups beef broth
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef 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 diced tomatoes, cinnamon, allspice, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the tomato paste and beef broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Pumpkin and Black Bean Chili
As the seasons change, warm up with this comforting and flavorful Pumpkin and Black Bean Chili. This recipe combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the earthiness of black beans for a unique twist on traditional chili.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the onion, garlic, and bell pepper over medium heat until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, pumpkin puree, and water (if desired). Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Chili with Dark Chocolate
This chili recipe combines the deep flavors of chipotle peppers, dark chocolate, and a hint of smokiness to create a bold and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt.
4. Add diced tomatoes, beans, and dark chocolate chips. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors meld together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa and Lentil Chili
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the comforting warmth of lentils, perfect for a cozy evening meal or packed lunch. The result is a nutritious and filling chili that’s easy to make and customize to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups water or broth.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until tender.
3. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Simmer mixture for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Combine cooked quinoa with chili mixture. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bison Chili with Hatch Green Chilies
This hearty bison chili is a twist on the classic, featuring the rich flavor of hatch green chilies. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a cozy dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground bison
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup hatch green chilies, chopped
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or other hot peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground bison in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the canned tomatoes, beef broth, and chopped hatch green chilies.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Vegan Sweet Potato and Corn Chili
Warm up with this hearty, plant-based chili that’s perfect for a cozy night in! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and corn with a hint of smokiness from cumin and paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 can corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until softened.
4. Add cumin, paprika, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn kernels, and roasted sweet potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Chili with Cream Cheese
This rich and creamy chili is a twist on the classic Tex-Mex dish, featuring spicy jalapeños and a tangy cream cheese kick. Perfect for a chilly evening or game-day gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 onion, garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, cream cheese, and chopped cilantro. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and add the chopped jalapeños. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Korean-Inspired Gochujang Chili
A spicy and savory take on traditional chili, this Korean-inspired recipe combines the bold flavors of gochujang paste with tender beef and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp gochujang paste
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in gochujang paste, beef broth, diced tomatoes, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Instant Pot Chili with Ground Sausage
Ready in under an hour, this chili recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The ground sausage adds a meaty depth to the dish, while the beans and tomatoes provide fiber and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground sausage (such as Italian-style or Chorizo)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the ground sausage until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir again.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook for 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Chili Cheese Fries with Beef Chili
Elevate your snack game with this mouthwatering recipe, combining the comforting flavors of beef chili and crispy fries topped with melted cheese, sour cream, and chives.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen French-fry-style potatoes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup beef chili (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook frozen fries according to package instructions until crispy. Drain excess oil.
3. In a large skillet, warm the beef chili over medium heat until heated through.
4. Arrange fries on a baking sheet and spoon warmed chili over the top.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the chili.
6. Drizzle sour cream over the cheese, followed by chopped chives.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Chili Pork Stew
This Green Chili Pork Stew is a delicious and comforting meal perfect for a chilly evening. Tender chunks of pork, combined with the bold flavors of green chili peppers, onions, and garlic, make for a truly satisfying bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups green chili peppers (canned or fresh), chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 8-10 corn tortillas for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the pork cubes over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, green chili peppers, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Pour in chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until pork is tender.
4. Serve hot with tortillas, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Mango and Pineapple Chili
Spicy Mango and Pineapple Chili Recipe Summary: This unique chili recipe combines the sweetness of mango and pineapple with a spicy kick from jalapeños, making it a perfect blend of flavors for any meal or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chopped fresh mango
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water or beef broth (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, mango, pineapple, jalapeño, chili powder, and cumin.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 mouth-watering chili recipes! From classic beef and vegetarian options to unique twists like pumpkin and black bean, there’s something for everyone. Satisfy your cravings with spicy turkey and slow cooker three-bean chilies, or try something new like Korean-inspired gochujang chili or jalapeño popper chili. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty bowl or some loaded chili cheese fries, these recipes are sure to warm your belly and your heart.
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