Get ready to turn up the heat with these 18 sizzling hot chili recipes! Whether you’re a seasoned chili enthusiast or just looking for a new way to spice up your meal routine, we’ve got you covered. From classic Texas-style red chilies to bold and adventurous options like jalapeño popper chili, there’s something on this list for every palate.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of spicy chilies, featuring recipes that range from mildly zesty to downright incendiary. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty beef-based chili or a vegetarian black bean option, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron and get ready to fire up your stovetop or slow cooker – it’s time to get cooking!
Classic Texas Red Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili that’s a staple of Texas cuisine. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family.
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 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red 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 ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
White Chicken Chili
This creamy white chicken chili is a comforting and flavorful twist on traditional chili recipes. With its rich and velvety texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onions, and garlic over medium-high heat until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, white beans, chicken broth, heavy cream, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetarian Black Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian black bean chili that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos, sour cream, shredded cheese, and crushed tortilla chips for topping
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
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: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Beef Chili
Transform your taste buds with this bold and flavorful chili recipe, perfect for a cozy night in or a party gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 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 as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
A hearty and comforting chili recipe perfect for a chilly day. This slow cooker turkey chili is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 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 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
4. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chicken broth to the slow cooker.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Three-Bean Chili with Ground Beef
This classic chili recipe is a staple of comfort food, packed with tender ground beef, three types of beans, and a rich tomato-based broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups chopped canned 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 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute.
4. Add canned tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Spicy Green Chile Pork Chili
Experience the bold flavors of New Mexico with this hearty and spicy chili recipe, featuring tender pork and a tangy kick from green chile peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chile peppers
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the pork over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onions, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and green chile peppers. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is tender.
5. Add the red kidney beans and water to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cincinnati-Style Chili
This classic recipe for Cincinnati-style chili is a staple of the city’s culinary scene. A unique blend of spices and ground beef creates a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for serving over pasta or on top of a hot dog.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground allspice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: pasta or hot dog for serving
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 chopped onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, cinnamon, and allspice to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours for added flavor.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve over pasta or on top of a hot dog.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes – several hours
Sweet Potato and Quinoa Chili
A hearty and nutritious chili recipe that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the nutty flavor of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 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 potato with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add quinoa and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Add roasted sweet potato, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and reduce heat to low. Let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes.
Chocolate-Infused Chili Con Carne
Elevate your chili game with this unique recipe that combines the bold flavors of traditional chili con carne with the deep, velvety richness of dark chocolate. This twist on a classic will surprise and delight even the most skeptical palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
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, garlic, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook until the vegetables are soft and the mixture is fragrant.
3. Stir in the chocolate chips and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Chili
Get ready to spice up your meal with this creamy and bold Jalapeño Popper Chili recipe, packed with the flavors of roasted peppers, onions, and a hint of heat.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cups chopped fresh jalapeños (about 4-5 peppers)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 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 diced onion, garlic, jalapeños, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the canned tomatoes and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Bison and Bacon Chili
This hearty, comforting chili combines the rich flavors of bison and bacon with a depth of spices and aromas. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or as a twist on traditional beef chili.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground bison
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the bison in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the crumbled bacon, onion, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for at least 30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Pumpkin and Black Bean Chili
This hearty chili combines the warmth of pumpkin with the earthiness of black beans, perfect for a cozy fall 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), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, and pumpkin. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Gochujang Chili
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this spicy and savory chili recipe, featuring gochujang as its star ingredient.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef or pork
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, potatoes)
– 2 tablespoons gochujang paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground meat in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the vegetable oil, onion, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, gochujang paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger; stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Mushroom Chili
Warm up with a hearty and flavorful lentil and mushroom chili that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water/broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
2. In a separate pan, cook onion and garlic over medium-high heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and bell pepper to the pan; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 8 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked lentils with mushroom mixture, diced tomatoes, and any desired jalapenos/hot sauce. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Carolina Reaper Hot Chili
This recipe combines the intense heat of the Carolina Reaper pepper with the rich flavor of beef and beans to create a chili that will leave you breathless.
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 Carolina Reaper peppers, diced (use gloves when handling)
– 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: jalapenos or other hot peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and Carolina Reaper peppers; cook 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 30 minutes or longer for flavors to meld.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped onions, sour cream, or shredded cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cornbread-Topped Chili Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of chili with a crispy cornbread topping. Perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing main dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cornbread mix, milk, egg, and melted butter.
6. Pour the chili mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the cornbread mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and chili is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Philly Cheesesteak Chili
A twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, this hearty chili combines tender beef, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and melted cheddar cheese with a rich, slightly sweet tomato base. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing tailgating party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, chili powder, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let chili cook while you prepare the cheese topping: Melt cheddar cheese in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat.
6. Serve hot, topped with melted cheese and any desired toppings (e.g., sour cream, chopped onions).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to heat up your meals with these 18 spicy chili recipes! From classic Texas red chili to sweet potato and quinoa chili, there’s something for every palate. Try smoky chipotle beef chili or slow cooker turkey chili for a hearty meal. For vegetarians, options include vegetarian black bean chili and three-bean chili with ground beef. And for those who like it extra hot, try spicy green chile pork chili or Carolina Reaper hot chili. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or an adventurous twist, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
