Are you ready to ignite your taste buds and warm up with a hearty, comforting bowl of goodness? Look no further! We’ve got 18 mouth-watering spicy chili recipes that will satisfy your cravings and leave you craving more. From classic beef chilies to vegetarian and vegan options, we’ve got something for everyone.
Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking for a new twist on an old favorite, our collection of recipes has got it covered. With flavors ranging from smoky chipotle to sweet pumpkin, there’s no excuse not to give one (or two, or three…) a try. So grab your apron, fire up the stove (or slow cooker), and get ready to dive into the world of spicy chili!
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Classic Beef Chili with Beans
A hearty and comforting recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This classic beef chili with beans is a simple and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of 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
– 2 cups 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 red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in the 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 to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetarian Three-Bean Chili
This hearty and flavorful vegetarian chili recipe is a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. With the combination of three types of beans, aromatic spices, and rich tomato sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the chili powder, cumin, and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the black beans, kidney beans, cannellini beans, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture 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. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Chicken Chili with Green Chilies
This creamy white chicken chili is a twist on traditional chili recipes, featuring tender chicken breast cooked in a rich and flavorful sauce with the added kick of green chilies. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 (15 oz) can Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-6 green chilies, diced (depending on desired heat level)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken, cumin, and paprika. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, beans, chicken broth, half-and-half or heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chili has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the diced green chilies and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the smokiness of chipotles with the richness of turkey, perfect for a cozy evening or a crowd-pleasing party. With a depth of flavor and a touch of spice, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and chipotle peppers; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili
This hearty, comforting chili recipe is perfect for a chilly evening. Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and creamy texture to this flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups canned diced tomatoes
– 1 cup canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced green chilies
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
5. Add the cubed sweet potato, canned tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir well.
6. Top with diced green chilies.
7. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Vegan Lentil Chili
This hearty, plant-based chili is a perfect blend of spices and flavors that will warm your belly and your soul. With a kick from the jalapeños and a depth from the lentils, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your vegan kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeños; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Texas-Style No-Beef Chili
Get ready to spice up your chili game with this mouth-watering, no-beef version that’s packed with flavor! This Texas-style recipe is a twist on the classic, featuring tender vegetables and a rich, smoky tomato base.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced green chilies
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes over medium-high heat until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the green chilies, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
3. Add the red kidney beans and water to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Cincinnati-Style Skyline Chili
Cincinnati-Style Skyline Chili Recipe
This classic recipe is a staple of Cincinnati’s culinary scene, featuring a thin, rich chili served over spaghetti and topped with a mound of shredded cheese. With its unique flavor profile and signature presentation, this chili is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz spaghetti
– Shredded cheddar cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve the chili over cooked spaghetti and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin and Black Bean Chili
This hearty chili combines the warmth of pumpkin with the rich flavor of black beans, perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small pumpkin (about 1 lb), cooked and diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin and chili powder; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, black beans, pumpkin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in water; bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa and Chickpea Chili
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian chili that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the protein-rich goodness of chickpeas, perfect for a cozy evening meal or packed lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 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 bell pepper until tender.
3. Add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Once quinoa is cooked, fluff with fork and add to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bison Chili with Dark Chocolate
This hearty chili combines the bold flavor of bison with the deep richness of dark chocolate, creating a unique and delicious twist on a classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground bison
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos, sour cream, or shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Brown the bison in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika; cook 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, and dark chocolate chips; stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Chili
Jalapeño Popper Chili is a twist on traditional chili recipes, adding the bold flavors of jalapeños and cream cheese to create a mouthwatering dish. Perfect for a chilly evening or a party with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh jalapeños
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeños; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and chili powder.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Gochujang Chili
Gochujang chili is a spicy and savory Korean-inspired dish that’s perfect for warming up on a cold day. This recipe combines the bold flavors of gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger with tender beef and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp gochujang
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or wok, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil, then sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the browned beef back into the pot, along with the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Lamb Chili with Apricots
Moroccan Lamb Chili with Apricots: A flavorful twist on traditional chili, this recipe combines the rich flavors of lamb and spices with the sweetness of apricots for a truly unique dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked chickpeas
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add lamb and cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and chickpeas. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until lamb is tender.
5. Stir in chopped apricots. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Cornbread-Topped Chili
Warm up with a hearty bowl of chili topped with a crispy cornbread crust. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
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 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– Butter or cooking spray for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon.
3. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and beef broth.
5. Simmer for 20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in heavy cream to add richness.
7. Meanwhile, prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions using milk instead of eggs.
8. Pour cornbread mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Instant Pot Spicy Sausage Chili
Warm up with this bold and spicy chili recipe made with juicy sausage, tender beans, and a kick of heat. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as Andouille or chorizo), sliced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the sausage until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Fire-Roasted Tomato Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering. This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted tomatoes with the richness of ground beef and beans.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fire-roasted tomatoes (see note)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in fire-roasted tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beans, chili powder, and cumin.
5. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Chili
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional chili, this Thai-inspired recipe combines the warmth of curry with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef or pork (or a combination)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp Thai red curry paste
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground meat over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in the curry paste, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and water (if using). Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with a spicy kick! This article shares 18 mouth-watering chili recipes that are perfect for hearty meals. From classic beef and vegetarian options to unique twists like sweet potato, pumpkin, and dark chocolate, there’s something for everyone. Try the Smoky Chipotle Turkey Chili or the Spicy Vegan Lentil Chili for a flavorful meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and new, these spicy chili recipes will satisfy your cravings.
