When the weather turns chilly, there is nothing quite like a steaming bowl of comfort food.
And let’s be honest, few meals hit the spot quite like a classic, hearty bowl of chili.
It is warm, it is filling, and it instantly makes any night feel cozy.
Plus, it is totally customizable, making it one of the BEST dinners to feed a crowd or just yourself on a lazy evening.
I put together a list of the best chili recipes, so you feel extra inspired to try something new in your kitchen.
These chili ideas include rich and meaty classics, plus unique twists with beans, veggies, and plenty of spice.
There is something for every type of appetite – and every kind of cooking “skill level.”
So whether you are hosting a weekend game day party, or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, these delicious bowls of comfort are sure to hit the spot.
Grab your favorite spoon and let’s dive into the list.
1. Bell Pepper Chili
Bell Pepper Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish packed with fresh bell peppers.
It makes a satisfying meal when served hot over a bed of fluffy white rice.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
2. Chili (Vegan)
Vegan Chili is a wholesome plant-based dish made with plenty of beans and fresh vegetables.
A touch of molasses gives this flexible recipe a rich flavor without using any meat.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
3. Easy Chili
Easy Chili brings a classic comfort food taste straight to your dinner table with very little effort.
This simple recipe follows a long tradition of making a warm and savory bowl of chili.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
4. Frito Pie Chili
Frito Pie Chili is a thick and meaty dish specifically made to top your favorite corn chips.
It creates a fun and tasty meal that is always a big hit at family gatherings.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
5. Pedernales River Chili
Pedernales River Chili is a historic Texas style dish that was a favorite of President Lyndon Johnson.
This flavorful recipe features tender meat cooked with tomatoes and onions without any added suet.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
6. Texas Easy Chili
Texas Easy Chili is a traditional beef and tomato dish made without any beans.
This classic recipe gets its bold flavor from a savory blend of chili powder and rich juice.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
7. Bean Chili
Bean Chili is a thick and hearty dish loaded with a variety of tender beans.
It is a warm and comforting meal that tastes great on a cold day.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
8. Chili Colorado
Chili Colorado is a rich and savory dish featuring tender meat simmered in a red sauce.
It delivers bold flavors that pair wonderfully with warm tortillas or rice.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
9. Award-Winning Chili
This award-winning chili brings a fun southwestern twist to your dinner table with tender chicken and bold flavors.
It is a hearty poultry dish inspired by recipes from around the world, including the Netherlands and other European kitchens.
Serve this warm bowl to your family on a cold night for a truly satisfying meal.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
10. Backdoor Chili
This authentic backdoor chili is a thick and meaty texas style meal made completely without beans.
It uses a traditional cookoff recipe that focuses purely on rich spices and savory meat.
Make this classic dish when you want a serious bowl of no beans chili that tastes just like the ones made by competition pros.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
11. Baked Chili With A Twist
This baked chili with a twist gives your standard weeknight dinner a brand new spin.
Cooking it in the oven creates a rich, thick texture that tastes amazing.
Top it with your favorite cheese for a simple and cozy hot meal.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
12. Best-Ever Veggie Chili
This best-ever veggie chili is packed with fresh beans, juicy tomatoes, and tender zucchini.
It is a healthy meatless meal that does not skimp on flavor or comfort.
Enjoy a warm bowl of this hearty vegetable stew whenever you want something wholesome and easy.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
13. Black Bean, Corn & Chicken Chili
This black bean, corn, and chicken chili is a breeze to make using your slow cooker or crockpot.
Just toss the ingredients inside and let the appliance do all the hard work while you go about your day.
You will come home to a warm, ready-to-eat dinner that is loaded with protein and fiber.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
14. Butternut Squash and Black Bean Chili with Bulgar
This butternut squash and black bean chili features hearty bulgar and bold mexican cuisine flavors.
Sweet squash and earthy beans create a wonderful mix of textures in every single bite.
It is a wholesome and filling plant-based meal that works great for lunch or dinner.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
