10 Comfort Food Favorites That Every Chili Lover Needs to Try

If you love bold flavors and hearty meals, this chili roundup is your new best friend. From vegan and vegetarian twists to meaty classics and inventive takes like chili pizza or chili mussels, there’s something for every craving. These recipes are packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for sharing with family or friends. Whether you want a cozy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for entertaining, this collection will have your taste buds dancing.

The Ultimate Chili Bar (or Charcuterie Board)

A pot of chili garnished with cilantro is surrounded by bowls of toppings and sides, including shredded cheese, onions, corn chips, jalapeños, cornbread, and fresh herbs. — The Ultimate Chili Bar (or Charcuterie Board). Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

Would you like to save this?

We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!

Build a spread with multiple chili varieties, toppings, and accompaniments. Beans, meats, and sauces come together so guests can customize each plate. Toppings like cheese, onions, and jalapenos add contrasting textures. This makes serving chili a social and interactive experience.
Get the Recipe: The Ultimate Chili Bar (or Charcuterie Board)

Kabocha Squash Chili

Sweet kabocha squash adds a creamy, slightly nutty texture to this chili. Beans and spices provide a savory counterpoint. The squash softens during cooking, making the dish smooth and comforting. This chili is both filling and visually striking with its orange hue.
Get the Recipe: Kabocha Squash Chili

Beer Chili Recipe

A bowl of beer chili with a hearty and spicy texture. — Beer Chili Recipe. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Adding beer brings depth and subtle bitterness to this chili. Meat and beans absorb the flavors during simmering. Onions, garlic, and spices round out the taste. It is a warming dish with a bold and complex profile.
Get the Recipe: Beer Chili Recipe

White Bean Veggie Chili

A bowl of vegetable and bean soup garnished with a lime wedge, placed on a white plate next to a spoon, a checkered napkin, and fresh cilantro. — White Bean Veggie Chili. Photo credit: Low Calorie Eating.

A medley of vegetables and white beans creates a satisfying base. Onions, peppers, and tomatoes add texture and color. Seasonings bring everything together with balanced warmth. It’s a hearty option that stands on its own.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Veggie Chili

Slow Cooker Chunky White Chicken Chili

Chicken chunks and beans simmer in a slow cooker for hours. The gentle cooking allows flavors to deepen fully. Corn, peppers, and spices create a layered taste. Each scoop is rich and filling.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chunky White Chicken Chili

Vegan White Chickpea Chili

A bowl of creamy soup with white beans, corn, tortilla chips, sliced avocado, jalapeño, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream. — Vegan White Chickpea Chili. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Chickpeas provide a hearty texture in this plant-based chili. Onions, peppers, and garlic create a savory base. Spices bring depth and warmth. It’s a filling dish that highlights bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Vegan White Chickpea Chili

Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Chicken, beans, and buffalo sauce come together quickly in the Instant Pot. The pressure cooking locks in flavors and tenderizes the meat. A touch of cream or cheese adds richness. This chili has a spicy, tangy kick with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Short Rib Chili

A bowl of spaghetti squash topped with chili, black beans, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped green onions, with a spoon on the side. — Short Rib Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Tender short ribs simmer in a rich tomato and bean base. Slow cooking allows the meat to fall apart effortlessly. Spices and onions deepen the savory flavor. It’s a luxurious chili with a meaty, robust profile.
Get the Recipe: Short Rib Chili

Beanless Chili

Meat, peppers, and spices form the base of this hearty chili. Without beans, the focus is on texture and boldness of flavor. Slow simmering allows the ingredients to meld. It’s rich, filling, and deeply savory.
Get the Recipe: Beanless Chili

Panera Bread Turkey Chili Recipe

A bowl of colorful bean and vegetable chili, featuring chickpeas, red kidney beans, carrots, and ground meat, placed on a patterned cloth with limes and a spoon nearby. — Panera Bread Turkey Chili Recipe. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Lean turkey is combined with beans and tomatoes in this flavorful chili. Spices and onions create a comforting depth. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish. Every bite has warmth and richness reminiscent of restaurant favorites.
Get the Recipe: Panera Bread Turkey Chili Recipe