45 Sizzling Chili Recipes to Spice Up Your Kitchen Adventures

My friend Linda recently hosted a chili cook-off that transformed her backyard into a flavor-packed fiesta. As spoons clinked against bowls and laughter filled the air, I realized just how versatile and exciting chili can be.

From classic beef to creative vegetarian options, each pot told a unique story of comfort and creativity.

Table of Contents

1. Classic Beef and Bean Chili

Nothing beats the timeless appeal of a hearty beef and bean chili. This recipe combines tender chunks of beef with a medley of beans, simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. The secret lies in the blend of spices – a perfect balance of chili powder, cumin, and a hint of smoked paprika.

To elevate this classic, try topping it with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve it alongside some warm cornbread for a meal that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

Classic Beef & Bean Chili from The Pantry by Hilary.

Classic Beef and Bean Chili from Unilever Food Solutions.

Classic Beef Chili from The Kitchn.

Rating: 5.

2. White Chicken Chili

For a lighter twist on traditional chili, this white chicken version is a game-changer. Succulent pieces of chicken breast are simmered with white beans in a creamy broth infused with green chilies and aromatic spices. The result is a comforting bowl that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

Add a squeeze of lime juice just before serving to brighten the flavors. This chili pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or a side of fluffy rice.

White Chili II from Allrecipes.

Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: 4, 6(206).

White Chicken Chili for Two from Dessert for Two.

Cooking Time: 30 min. Rating: 4.4.

Easy White Chicken Chili from Allrecipes.

Cooking Time: 50 min. Rating: 4.6.

3. Vegetarian Three-Bean Chili

Who says chili needs meat? This robust vegetarian option proves that plant-based recipes can be just as hearty and flavorful. A trio of beans – kidney, black, and pinto – forms the base of this colorful chili. Bell peppers, corn, and diced tomatoes add texture and sweetness.

The key to making this chili shine is a good quality vegetable broth and a generous helping of chili powder and cumin. Serve it topped with sliced avocado and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly cheesy flavor.

EASY THREE BEAN CHILI RECIPE (VEGAN) from The Simple Veganista.

Cooking Time: 30 min. Rating: 5.

Vegetarian Three-Bean Chili from Epicurious.

Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 4, 8(18).

Three-Bean Vegetarian Chili from Allrecipes.

Cooking Time: 1 h 15 min. Rating: 4.6.

4. Slow Cooker Chunky Beef Chili

Let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting with this set-it-and-forget-it chili recipe. Large chunks of beef become melt-in-your-mouth tender as they simmer all day in a rich, spicy sauce. The low and slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Toss in some diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for added depth and nutrition. This chili is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a comforting meal without much fuss.

Slow Cooker Chunky Beef Chili with Sweet Potatoes from The Real Food Dietitians.

Cooking Time: 8 h 20 min. Rating: 5.

Slow-Cooked Chunky Chili from Taste of Home.

Cooking Time: 4 h 15 min. Rating: 4.6.

Slow-Cooker Beef Chilli Recipe from Sainsbury’s.

Cooking Time: 8 h 40 min.

5. Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili

Give your chili a smoky twist with this chipotle turkey version. Ground turkey provides a leaner protein option, while chipotle peppers in adobo sauce lend a deep, smoky heat. The addition of fire-roasted tomatoes enhances the overall flavor profile.

Balance the heat with a touch of honey or maple syrup. This chili is fantastic served over a baked sweet potato or with a side of quinoa for a nutritious, well-rounded meal.

Smoky Chipotle Turkey & Sweet Potato Chili with Beans & Sour Cream from Dinnerly.

Cooking Time: 30 min.

Chipotle Turkey Sweet Potato Chili from The Real Food Dietitians.

Cooking Time: 35 min. Rating: 5.

Turkey and Hominy Chili With Smoky Chipotle from NYT Cooking – The New York Times.

Cooking Time: 1 h 30 min. Rating: 5.

6. Cincinnati-Style Chili

Take a culinary trip to Ohio with this unique Cincinnati-style chili. Unlike traditional versions, this chili is seasoned with a blend of warm spices like cinnamon, allspice, and even a hint of chocolate. It’s typically served over spaghetti and topped with cheese, onions, and beans.

Don’t be afraid to embrace the unconventional nature of this dish. The combination of flavors might surprise you, but it’s beloved for a reason. Serve it “five-way” with all the toppings for the full Cincinnati experience.

Authentic Cincinnati Chili from Allrecipes.

Cooking Time: 3 h 45 min. Rating: 4.7.

Cincinnati Chili from Simply Recipes.

Cooking Time: 3 h 40 min. Rating: 4.8.

Cincinnati-Style Chili from Food Network.

Rating: 4.4.

7. Pumpkin Black Bean Chili

Embrace the flavors of fall with this pumpkin black bean chili. The addition of pumpkin puree lends a velvety texture and subtle sweetness to the dish. Black beans provide a hearty base, while a mix of vegetables adds color and nutrition.

Spice it up with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of cinnamon to complement the pumpkin. This chili is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and fiber. Top it with roasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch.

Vegetarian Pumpkin Chili with Black Beans from She Likes Food.

Cooking Time: 40 min. Rating: 5.

Black Bean ‘n’ Pumpkin Chili from Taste of Home.

Cooking Time: 4 h 20 min. Rating: 4.7.

Easy Pumpkin Black Bean Chili from Tried and True Recipes.

Rating: 4.8.

8. Spicy Chorizo and Sweet Potato Chili

For those who like their chili with a kick, this spicy chorizo and sweet potato version delivers. The bold flavors of chorizo sausage are balanced by the natural sweetness of diced sweet potatoes. A blend of kidney beans and black beans adds substance and protein.

Don’t shy away from adding a generous amount of chili powder and cayenne for heat. Cool it down with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of queso fresco. This chili is perfect for game day gatherings or chilly evenings.

Chorizo Sweet Potato Chili from Budget Bytes.

Cooking Time: 45 min. Rating: 4.9.

Black Bean, Chorizo & Sweet Potato Chili from Taste of Home.

Cooking Time: 6 h 20 min. Rating: 4.9.

Spicy chorizo and tomatillo chili with sweet potato and pumpkin seeds from Sunbasket.

Rating: 4. Ingredients: 4, 0(5267).

9. Vegan Lentil and Quinoa Chili

Pack your chili with plant-based protein using this vegan lentil and quinoa recipe. Red lentils cook down to create a thick, hearty texture, while quinoa adds a nutty flavor and extra protein. Load it up with veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for added nutrition.

Enhance the umami flavor with a splash of soy sauce or tamari. This chili is not only delicious but also budget-friendly and perfect for meal prep. Serve it with a side of crusty whole-grain bread for a complete meal.

Red Lentil Quinoa Chili from Peas and Crayons.

Rating: 5.

Lentil & Quinoa Chili {vegan & gluten free} from Ambitious Kitchen.

Rating: 4.8.

Lentil and Quinoa Chili from Food.com.

Rating: 5.

10. Creamy Buffalo Chicken Chili

Combine the flavors of your favorite game day snack with classic chili in this creamy buffalo chicken version. Shredded chicken is mixed with white beans and corn in a tangy, spicy sauce inspired by buffalo wing sauce. A touch of cream cheese adds richness and helps mellow the heat.

Garnish with crumbled blue cheese and sliced green onions for an authentic buffalo chicken experience. This unique chili is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next potluck or party.

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Chili {Paleo, Whole30} from The Paleo Running Momma.

Cooking Time: 45 min. Rating: 4.6.

Buffalo Chicken Chili from Carlsbad Cravings.

Cooking Time: 35 min.

Award Winning Buffalo Chicken Chili (Slow Cooker) from MamaGourmand.

Cooking Time: 8 h 10 min. Rating: 4.5.

11. Moroccan-Inspired Lamb Chili

Take your taste buds on a journey with this Moroccan-inspired lamb chili. Ground lamb provides a rich, slightly gamey flavor that pairs beautifully with warm spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Chickpeas and diced tomatoes round out the dish, while a handful of dried apricots adds a subtle sweetness.

Finish the chili with a sprinkle of fresh mint and a dollop of yogurt. Serve it with warm pita bread or over a bed of couscous for a truly satisfying meal.

Moroccan Lamb Chili with Sweet Potatoes from Feed Me Phoebe.

Cooking Time: 50 min. Rating: 5. Ingredients: Sweet potato, ground lamb, greek yogurt, moroccan, fire roasted.

Moroccan Ground Lamb Chili from The Matbakh.

Cooking Time: 55 min. Rating: 5. Ingredients: Ground lamb, couscous, canned garbanzo beans, harissa, golden raisins.

Moroccan Spiced Lamb Chili from Dash of Jazz.

Cooking Time: 40 min. Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: Sweet potato, ground lamb, collard green, brown sugar, beef broth.

12. Green Chili Verde with Pork

Experience the tangy, zesty flavors of the Southwest with this green chili verde. Tender chunks of pork shoulder simmer in a sauce made from tomatillos, green chilies, and cilantro. The result is a bright, flavorful chili that’s a refreshing change from tomato-based versions.

Don’t forget to serve this chili with plenty of lime wedges for squeezing. It’s delicious on its own, but also makes a great filling for burritos or topping for nachos.

Chile Verde Pork from Tastes Better From Scratch.

Cooking Time: 2 hrs 50 mins. Rating: 5. Ingredients: Pork loin, chicken broth, fresh poblano chiles, garlic, fresh tomatillos.

Pork Chili Verde (Green Pork Chili) from Allrecipes.

Cooking Time: 2 hrs 40 mins. Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Boneless pork shoulder, sour cream, yukon gold potatoes, pickled red onions, cayenne pepper.

Ultimate Pork Chile Verde from Food.com.

Cooking Time: 3 hrs 45 mins. Rating: 5. Ingredients: Picnic pork roast, yellow bell peppers, jalapeno peppers, chicken broth, flour tortillas.

13. Hearty Bison and Beer Chili

For a twist on traditional beef chili, try using lean ground bison. This flavorful meat pairs wonderfully with a bottle of dark beer, which adds depth and richness to the sauce. Load it up with kidney beans, diced onions, and bell peppers for a truly hearty meal.

The key to this chili is letting it simmer low and slow, allowing the flavors to meld and the bison to become tender. Serve it topped with sharp cheddar cheese and a side of skillet cornbread for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Hearty Bison Chili from Be Wild Eats.

Cooking Time: 2 h 30 min. Rating: 5.

Bison Chili with Beer and Bacon from A Healthy Life For Me.

Bison and Bean Chili Recipe from The Lemon Bowl.

14. Sweet and Spicy Mango Black Bean Chili

Bring a taste of the tropics to your chili with this sweet and spicy mango black bean version. The natural sweetness of fresh mango balances perfectly with the heat of jalapenos and chili powder. Black beans provide a creamy texture and plenty of fiber.

To enhance the tropical flavors, add a splash of coconut milk or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes. This unique chili is perfect for summer gatherings or when you need a little sunshine in your bowl.

Mango Black Bean Chili from Carlsbad Cravings.

Mango Black Bean Chili from Punchfork.

Cooking Time: 40 min. Rating: 4.7.

Spicy Mango, Black Bean & Avocado Tacos from Love and Lemons.

Rating: 5. Ingredients: 5, 0(21).

15. Smoky Bacon and Beef Chili

Indulge in a rich and smoky chili experience with this bacon and beef combination. Start by crisping up some bacon, then use the flavorful drippings to brown the ground beef. The addition of smoked paprika and a dash of liquid smoke takes the smoky flavor to the next level.

Don’t forget to reserve some of the crispy bacon bits for topping. This chili is perfect for cooler weather and pairs beautifully with a cold beer or a glass of bold red wine.