When it comes to cozy meals, chili is a TOTAL classic. It’s the perfect comfort food for cold days, game nights, or any time you want something hearty. But did you know there are SO many ways to make chili? Sure, there are traditional versions, but chili can also be surprising and fun.
I put together a list of 10 chili recipes to give you new ideas. These range from familiar favorites to unique twists, so you can try something different. No matter if you’re cooking for yourself or a big group, there’s a recipe here for you.
So, grab your pot and get ready to cook because these chili ideas are about to become your new go-to meals.
1. Bell Pepper Chili
This Bell Pepper Chili lets the natural sweetness of bell peppers shine through in every bite.
It makes a hearty and satisfying meal when served over a bed of fluffy white rice.
Simple ingredients come together for a dinner the whole family will enjoy.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
2. Chili (Vegan)
This Vegan Chili proves you don’t need meat to make a deeply flavorful and hearty bowl.
It relies on beans and vegetables for its texture, with a touch of molasses for a warm, slightly sweet flavor.
The recipe is very flexible, so you can easily customize it with whatever you have on hand.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
3. Easy Chili
This Easy Chili goes back to basics for a simple, no-fuss meal that still delivers big on taste.
Inspired by the classic Texas chili from the 1800s, this straightforward recipe is perfect for busy nights.
Just a few simple ingredients are all it takes to make a pot of pure comfort.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
4. Frito Pie Chili
This chili is made specifically to be the perfect topping for a classic Frito Pie.
It has the right consistency to hold up against crunchy corn chips and melted cheese.
Spoon it over Fritos for a fun, easy dinner that everyone will love.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
5. Pedernales River Chili
This Pedernales River Chili was a favorite of President Lyndon B. Johnson, created by his family cook Zephyr Wright at his Texas Hill Country ranch.
It uses lean venison or beef with tomatoes and onions for a lighter but deeply savory taste.
This historic recipe offers a delicious taste of Texas history.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
6. Texas Easy Chili
This Texas Easy Chili sticks to true Texas tradition by leaving the beans out.
It builds a bold, pure flavor using chili powder and tomato juice with tender cubes of beef.
It is a straightforward and honest bowl of chili that gets the job done right.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
7. Bean Chili
This Bean Chili puts hearty beans front and center for the perfect simple and filling meal.
It is a classic, no-fuss recipe where the beans soak up all the rich, savory flavors of the broth.
An easy and affordable dinner that satisfies every time.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
8. Chili Colorado
Chili Colorado features tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, red sauce.
Dried chiles give the dish its deep, smoky warmth and beautiful color.
It is a true taste of the Southwest that is perfect on its own or with warm tortillas.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
9. Award-Winning Chili
This Award-Winning Chili is a European-style poultry chili featuring chicken and Dutch southwestern influences.
It brings the flavors of Holland and the Netherlands to your bowl for a unique twist.
Perfect for anyone seeking a hearty and award-worthy chili experience.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
10. Backdoor Chili
Backdoor Chili is a Texas-style chili made for cookoffs with no beans at all.
It delivers bold, authentic chili flavor that stands out in any competition.
This recipe is a must-try for fans of classic, meaty chili.
Recipe from Foodista.com.