Looking for a no-fuss, flavor-packed meal you can count on every time? You’re in the right place. This Easy Chili Recipe is a go-to comfort dish that’s perfect for weeknights, game days, or whenever you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. No fancy ingredients. No hard-to-follow steps. Just real, delicious food.
Why This Chili Recipe Works
You don’t need to be a chef to make a killer pot of chili.
This recipe:
- Uses basic pantry ingredients
- Takes less than 90 minutes from start to finish
- Tastes even better the next day
- Is completely customizable
Whether you’re a beginner or a chili pro, this version keeps it simple without sacrificing flavor.
Easy Chili Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break it down. Here’s everything you need to get started.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground meat (beef, turkey, chicken, or pork—your choice)
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, diced (remove seeds to reduce heat)
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp homemade taco seasoning (recipe below)
- 1 tsp all-purpose seasoning
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Italian herb paste (optional)
- 1 can (15.5 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup Red Stripe beer (or use more broth if avoiding alcohol)
For the Taco Seasoning (save extra in a jar):
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 1.5 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1.5 tbsp chili powder
- 1.5 tbsp ground cumin
- 1.5 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to cook? Follow these simple steps:
1. Brown the Meat
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground meat and cook for 6–8 minutes.
- Break it up with a wooden spoon as it browns.
- Drain the excess grease.
2. Season the Meat
- Lower the heat to medium.
- Add chili powder, taco seasoning, all-purpose seasoning, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes.
- Mix everything to coat the meat evenly.
3. Add Fresh Veggies
- Toss in the diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño.
- Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
4. Build the Base
- Stir in the tomato paste and Italian herb paste (if using).
- Pour in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and crushed tomatoes.
- Mix until everything’s combined.
5. Add Liquid
- Pour in 1 cup of broth and 1/4 cup of beer (or more broth if you’re skipping alcohol).
- Stir well.
6. Simmer Low and Slow
- Bring the chili to a rolling simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and cover loosely.
- Let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- The longer it simmers, the thicker and richer it gets.
Serving Suggestions
Want to level it up? Try these sides and toppings:
Great Sides:
- Steamed white rice
- Cornbread or biscuits
- Tortilla chips
Top It With:
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced green onions
- Crushed red pepper
Make It Your Way
Not a fan of spicy food? Skip the jalapeño and chili flakes.
Watching your carbs? Leave out the beans or swap them with chopped zucchini.
Need it vegan? Use plant-based meat and vegetable broth.
This chili adapts to you.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store it right:
- Let chili cool completely before refrigerating.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze it for later:
- Pour into freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat it easily:
- Warm on the stove over medium heat.
- Microwave in a covered bowl, stirring every 60 seconds.
FQAs Easy Chili Recipe
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the meat and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Is it spicy?
Mild to medium. You control the heat by adjusting the jalapeño and chili flakes.
What kind of meat works best?
Ground beef is classic, but turkey or chicken works great if you want a leaner version.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just make sure your pot is big enough to hold it all.
You don’t need a long list of ingredients or fancy skills to make great chili. This Easy Chili Recipe is all about bold flavor, simple prep, and cozy satisfaction.
It’s fast. It’s flexible. It’s foolproof.
So what are you waiting for?
Grab a pot. Turn on the stove. And enjoy the best bowl of chili you’ve ever made—right at home.
