14 Chili Recipes That Go Big on Flavor Without Complicating Dinner

Chili is one of the easiest meals to customize, and this list covers everything from classic beef to unique twists like apple cheddar or jackfruit. Whether you’re using a slow cooker, an Instant Pot, or a stovetop, each recipe delivers bold flavor and satisfying texture. Some are meaty, some are plant-based, but all are designed to be simple, hearty, and full of flavor. Pick one, simmer it, and serve it hot in a bowl, over rice, or with your favorite toppings.

Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili

A bowl of stew containing chicken, chickpeas, potatoes, and vegetables, topped with sour cream, grated cheese, and sliced green onions. — Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

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This sweet-and-savory chili features diced apples, cheddar cheese, and tender chicken. It’s creamy, mild, and rich in flavor. White beans and light spices round it out. A smooth texture keeps it hearty without being too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili

Hearty Beef Chili

Chunks of beef simmer in a thick, smoky tomato base. The meat stays tender and the sauce is packed with flavor. Optional beans add bulk. Great for a full, no-fuss dinner.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Chili

Hearty Pumpkin Chili

A bowl of chili topped with sliced avocado, jalapeño, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped cilantro, with a spoon on the side. — Hearty Pumpkin Chili. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Pumpkin puree thickens the base and adds a subtle sweetness. Ground beef or turkey gives it weight. The spices balance out the pumpkin for a warm, filling bowl. Easy to make and even easier to serve.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Pumpkin Chili

Brisket Chili

Slow-cooked brisket turns soft and flavorful in a bold chili sauce. The meat adds richness and depth. Tomato, chili powder, and garlic pull it together. Best enjoyed after a long simmer.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Chili

Instant Pot Crack Chicken Chili

Made with chicken, bacon, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning, this chili is creamy and savory. The pressure cooker blends everything fast. It’s rich, filling, and packed with flavor. Beans or corn can be added for extra texture.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Crack Chicken Chili

Beer Chili Recipe

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

A splash of beer brings deep flavor to this beef chili. The alcohol cooks off, leaving a rich, slightly bitter edge. It’s thick, tomato-based, and full of spice. Beans and onions round it out.
Get the Recipe: Beer Chili Recipe

Instant Pot Vegan Acorn Squash Chili

Acorn squash softens into a mild, sweet base in this plant-based chili. The Instant Pot keeps cook time short. Beans and tomatoes make it thick. It’s both comforting and colorful.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Vegan Acorn Squash Chili

Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili

A bowl of white bean chili topped with diced red onions and avocado, with a spoon in the bowl and a sliced avocado on a wooden board nearby. — Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This chili uses white beans and shredded chicken for a simple, creamy dish. It’s lightly spiced and smooth throughout. Sour cream or cheese adds extra richness. Perfect for when you want something mild but still hearty.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili

Kabocha Squash Chili

A bowl of vegetable stew with beans, squash, greens, and sliced jalapeños, garnished with fresh cilantro, is placed on a blue plate next to a small bowl of cilantro. — Kabocha Squash Chili. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Kabocha squash brings a nutty, slightly sweet flavor to this bean-filled chili. The texture softens without turning mushy. Bold spices balance the natural sweetness. It’s thick, rich, and deeply satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Kabocha Squash Chili

Instant Pot Jackfruit Chili

A white bowl filled with vegetable and chickpea stew, garnished with fresh cilantro, sits on a table next to a dark cloth. — Instant Pot Jackfruit Chili. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Jackfruit takes the place of shredded meat in this vegan chili. It soaks up the chili spices beautifully. The Instant Pot makes it quick and easy. Beans and peppers fill out the rest.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Jackfruit Chili

Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Shredded chicken mixes with hot sauce, beans, and cream cheese. It’s spicy, tangy, and creamy all at once. The Instant Pot keeps prep fast. Topped with green onions or blue cheese crumbles.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Baked Potato Soup Chilis

A bowl of creamy soup topped with shredded cheese, bacon bits, and chopped chives is held in two hands on a yellow checkered tablecloth. A spoon and more bowls are nearby. — Baked Potato Soup Chilis. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

This twist blends baked potato soup with chili flavors. It’s thick, cheesy, and full of chunks. Bacon and potatoes do the heavy lifting. It’s chili with comfort food energy.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato Soup Chilis

Instant Pot Turkey Chili

A bowl of chili topped with tortilla strips sits on a wooden surface next to a spoon, with another bowl and extra tortilla strips in the background. — Instant Pot Turkey Chili. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Ground turkey keeps this chili lean but satisfying. Tomatoes, beans, and spices build the base. It cooks fast and evenly under pressure. A great meal prep option.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Turkey Chili

Beanless Chili

This no-bean version keeps things simple with meat, tomatoes, and bold seasoning. It’s thick, chunky, and high on flavor. Perfect for low-carb needs. No fillers, just heat and depth.
Get the Recipe: Beanless Chili