These chili recipes bring a mix of bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and warming spices perfect for cooler weather or a filling dinner any night. From classic slow cooker styles to adventurous takes with chocolate, brisket. You’ll find recipes that cover the full range—meaty, veggie-packed, smoky, sweet, spicy, and everything in between. Each dish simmers into a cozy, satisfying bowl that’s simple to make and big on flavor.

Chili Mac and Cheese – Two Comfort Foods, One Pot!

Chili Mac and Cheese – Two Comfort Foods, One Pot!. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

This mashup combines creamy mac and cheese with the bold flavor of chili in a single pot. The noodles cook right in the chili, absorbing every bit of seasoning. It’s a hearty and comforting meal that brings the best of both worlds. Great for feeding a crowd or freezing leftovers for later.
Get the Recipe: Chili Mac and Cheese – Two Comfort Foods, One Pot!

Easy Chili Recipe

Easy Chili Recipe. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

This version keeps it classic with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. It’s simple, straightforward, and comes together quickly on the stovetop. You can customize it with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions. Ideal for weeknights or game day meals.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chili Recipe

Beanless Chili

A bowl of easy chili topped with cheese, onions, and a lime wedge, served with a slice of cornbread on a plate with a spoon—perfect for cozy weeknight dinners.
Beanless Chili. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

This meat-heavy chili skips the beans for a thicker, more stew-like result. It’s often favored by low-carb eaters or those who like a bold, smoky flavor. The focus stays on the meat and seasoning without the extra filler. Best served with cornbread or tortilla chips for scooping.
Get the Recipe: Beanless Chili

Beer Chili Recipe

A bowl of easy chili with ground meat, beans, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped onions—perfect for lazy weeknight dinners—sits next to a can and a bowl of extra cheese.
Beer Chili Recipe. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

This chili uses beer to deepen the flavor and add a hint of bitterness that balances the spice. Choose a dark beer for richness or a lighter ale for subtle hops. It’s a favorite for tailgates and potlucks. Serve with shredded cheese and a squeeze of lime for extra zing.
Get the Recipe: Beer Chili Recipe

Brisket Chili

Brisket chili in a bowl topede with green onions and avocado.
Brisket Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Tender chunks of slow-cooked brisket bring a smoky, melt-in-your-mouth texture to this version. It takes a little longer to prepare but delivers deep flavor in every bite. The beef holds up well against bold spices and thick tomato base. Great for serving with rice or baked potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Chili

Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili

Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This unique combo uses ground chicken, diced apples, and sharp cheddar for a savory-sweet dish. The apples soften during cooking, adding texture and a hint of sweetness. It’s a lighter take on chili that still feels rich and comforting. Add extra cheese on top for a gooey finish.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili

Chipotle Black Bean Chili

A white bowl filled with raspberry black bean chili topped with cilantro and Greek yogurt.
Chipotle Black Bean Chili. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

This smoky vegetarian chili is packed with black beans, tomatoes, and chipotle peppers in adobo. The chipotle adds heat and depth without overpowering the other ingredients. Serve it over rice or with tortilla strips for added crunch. It’s filling and full of bold, earthy flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Black Bean Chili

Chocolate Lamb Chili

Chocolate Lamb Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Ground lamb and dark chocolate create a rich, slightly sweet chili with unexpected complexity. The chocolate doesn’t make it taste like dessert, but it smooths out the spices and deepens the sauce. This is a great option when you want something more adventurous. Serve with warm flatbread or polenta.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Lamb Chili

Crock Pot Chili for Two

Crock Pot Chili served in two white bowls with spoon.
Crock Pot Chili for Two. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Sized down for small households, this recipe makes just enough for two hearty servings. It uses the same ingredients as a full-sized batch, just in smaller amounts. The slow cooker lets the flavors meld beautifully with minimal effort. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy with a side salad or bread.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chili for Two

Crockpot Chili

Image shows a closeup of a bowl of Crockpot beef chili.
Crockpot Chili. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

A classic slow cooker version with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a mix of spices. Just toss everything in and let it simmer low and slow. It’s great for busy days when you want dinner ready with no extra steps. Freezes well and reheats even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Chili

White Bean Veggie Chili

White Bean Veggie Chili. Photo credit: Low Calorie Eating.

Loaded with white beans, peppers, corn, and zucchini, this vegetarian chili is bright and hearty. The broth is usually seasoned with cumin, garlic, and lime for a fresh finish. It’s great with avocado or a dollop of sour cream on top. A colorful option that’s big on flavor.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Veggie Chili

White Chicken Chili

Two cast iron bowls filled with White Chicken Chili.
White Chicken Chili. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

This creamy chili features shredded chicken, white beans, green chilies, and a touch of cream cheese or sour cream. It’s mild, rich, and full of texture. The lighter color and flavor make it a nice alternative to tomato-based versions. Best served with tortilla strips or cornbread muffins.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

A bowl of hearty Texas Roadhouse chili.
Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

This copycat version includes seasoned ground beef, a blend of spices, and no beans, just like the restaurant version. It’s thick and rich with a deep red color and slightly smoky finish. Great topped with cheese and a few jalapeño slices. Serve with a buttered roll or side of fries.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Spicy Hummus Turkey Chili

Spicy Hummus Turkey Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Ground turkey and hummus team up in this spicy chili with bold Mediterranean undertones. The hummus makes it creamy and rich without needing dairy. Add extra chili flakes or harissa for more heat. Serve with pita chips or warm flatbread for dipping.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Hummus Turkey Chili

Slow Cooker Chunky White Chicken Chili

Slow Cooker Chunky White Chicken Chili. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

This version keeps the ingredients in larger pieces, giving it a stew-like feel. With white beans, thick-cut vegetables, and pulled chicken, it’s both filling and rustic. The broth stays light but flavorful with green chilies and garlic. Excellent for ladling into deep bowls on a cold night.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chunky White Chicken 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 spiced meat sauce is served over spaghetti and topped with cheese, onions, and beans. The unique spice blend includes cinnamon and cocoa, giving it a sweet-and-savory twist. It simmers all day for a tender, flavorful finish. A regional favorite that’s worth trying if you haven’t.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cincinnati Chili

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.

This meat-packed version skips the beans for a smoother texture and richer flavor. It’s all about the seasoning and slow-cooked depth. Great for serving over rice, fries, or hot dogs. Perfect for anyone who prefers chili without the extras.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker No Bean Chili

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

This version combines shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and white beans for a spicy, creamy twist. It has all the flavor of buffalo wings in chili form. Top with blue cheese crumbles or celery sticks for full effect. A great option for game day or wing lovers.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Buffalo 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.

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