These chili ideas go beyond the usual bowl. Packed with spice, depth, and creativity, they turn a humble classic into something new. It’s comfort food, reimagined and turned up a notch.

Apricot-Chili Glazed Fish

Apricot-Chili Glazed Fish. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

This Apricot-Chili Glazed Fish strikes the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. The apricot glaze adds a fruity brightness, while the chili brings just the right amount of heat. It’s an elegant yet easy dish that works beautifully for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Apricot-Chili Glazed Fish

Slow Cooker No Bean Chili

A bowl of chili topped with shredded cheese, sliced avocado, jalapeño, and a dollop of sour cream, placed on a black and white checkered cloth next to a spoon and halved avocado.
Slow Cooker No Bean Chili. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Hearty, meaty, and full of flavor, this Slow Cooker No Bean Chili is comfort food made simple. Just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it simmer to perfection. It’s the ideal way to warm up on a cool evening with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker No Bean Chili

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili

A bowl of Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili filled with shredded chicken, black and white beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and topped with blue cheese crumbles, chopped parsley, and a drizzle of buffalo sauce.
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili brings together tender chicken, white beans, and spicy buffalo flavor for a zesty twist on classic chili. It’s a dump-and-go meal that’s big on taste but light on prep time. Perfect for busy weeknights and even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili

Mixed Bean Chili

Mixed Bean Chili. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

This Mixed Bean Chili is a hearty, wholesome meal packed with plant-based protein and bold, smoky spices. The mix of beans adds great texture and richness, making it satisfying even without meat. It’s an easy, budget-friendly dish for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Bean Chili

Easy Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili

Easy Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Looking for a meat-free comfort dish that still feels hearty? This Easy Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili is packed with beans, veggies, and spices that blend together as it slow-cooks. It’s wholesome, flavorful, and the perfect cozy dinner for any crowd.
Get the Recipe: Easy Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili

Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili

Cincinnatti chili on top of spaghetti and covered with cheese, beans and onions.
Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili is a hearty, flavorful classic that’s rich in spices and slow-simmered to perfection. Serve it over spaghetti or rice for a fun twist on traditional chili night. Easy to make and even easier to love.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili

One Pot Steak and Black Beans Chili

A bowl of chili topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and avocado slices, accompanied by pieces of cornbread.
One Pot Steak and Black Beans Chili. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

This One Pot Steak and Black Beans Chili is flavorful, flexible, and easy to make your own. Cook it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or even make it vegetarian by skipping the steak. Either way, it’s a hearty, comforting meal that’s full of bold flavor.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Steak and Black Beans Chili

Vegetarian Chili

Two bowls of chili with onions and sour cream.
Vegetarian Chili. Photo credit: .

This Vegetarian Chili proves that comfort food doesn’t need meat to be satisfying. Packed with beans, vegetables, and rich tomato flavor, it’s both hearty and nourishing. Perfect for meal prep or cozy weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Chili

Vegan White Chickpea Chili

Vegan White Chickpea Chili. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Creamy, hearty, and full of spice, this Vegan White Chickpea Chili is a plant-based favorite you’ll want on repeat. It’s quick to make, naturally gluten-free, and packed with protein and flavor. A wholesome bowl that’s perfect for chilly days.
Get the Recipe: Vegan White Chickpea Chili

Instant Pot Vegan Acorn Squash Chili

Instant Pot Vegan Acorn Squash Chili. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This Instant Pot Vegan Acorn Squash Chili is a cozy fall-inspired meal that’s as healthy as it is satisfying. With pinto beans, squash, and warming spices, it’s both colorful and comforting. Plus, it’s ready fast with simple stovetop or pressure-cooker instructions.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Vegan Acorn Squash Chili

Turkey Chili Pie

Turkey chili pie in a skillet and serving bowls.
Turkey Chili Pie. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Turkey Chili Pie combines lean, flavorful turkey chili with a golden cornbread topping baked in one skillet. It’s hearty, wholesome, and comforting — everything you want in a weeknight dinner. A perfect one-pan meal for cozy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chili Pie

Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Chili

A bowl of chili soup with beans, shredded cheese, avocado slices, sour cream, and cilantro garnish, served with a spoon on a checkered tablecloth.
Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Chili. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Smoky chipotle peppers, tender chicken, and a mix of beans make this Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Chili an easy comfort meal with bold flavor. Just dump, set, and let the slow cooker do the work. It freezes beautifully for quick, satisfying dinners anytime.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Chili

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

Read More About Me

Follow Lucy on social media:

Posted in:

You May Also Like:

Sign up with your email address to receive a 5-day series of Southern Cooking Secrets, followed by weekly emails with recipes and tips. We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *