21 Creative Ways to Make a Pot of Chili

Chili comes in all kinds of flavors and textures, and this list shows just how much variety you can pack into one pot. There are meat-heavy versions with beef, turkey, or chicken, along with veggie-forward takes using jackfruit, lentils, or squash. Whether you like it smoky, spicy, creamy, or loaded with beans, these chili recipes have something for every mood. And with lots of Instant Pot and one-pot options, they’re also easy to get on the table.

Instant Pot Jackfruit Chili

Would you like to save this?

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

Jackfruit takes on a meaty texture in this plant-based chili that simmers quickly in the pressure cooker. It’s hearty, tomato-rich, and great with beans or corn. Top with avocado or tortilla chips. A smart swap for meat lovers and vegans alike.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Jackfruit Chili

Kabocha Squash Chili

Kabocha squash brings a sweet, earthy depth to this thick and filling chili. It balances spice and richness, especially with black beans or lentils. The chunks stay tender but not mushy. Serve with cornbread or rice.
Get the Recipe: Kabocha Squash Chili

Smoked Chili

This version uses smoked meat or adds smoke flavor through spices or smoked paprika. The result is deep, bold, and layered. Let it simmer low and slow for best flavor. A solid pick for fall cookouts or cold nights.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chili

Instant Pot Turkey Chili

Bowl of chili with baked tortilla strips. — Instant Pot Turkey Chili. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Ground turkey makes this chili leaner but still rich, with tomatoes, beans, and classic seasonings. It comes together fast in the Instant Pot. Great for weeknights. Add toppings like sour cream or jalapeños.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Turkey Chili

Lentil and Butternut Squash Vegetarian Chili with Spicy Chickpea Quinoa Crackers

This chili skips the meat but brings plenty of flavor with lentils, squash, and a kick of spice. The chickpea quinoa crackers add crunch and extra protein. It’s thick, colorful, and cozy. A great fall option.
Get the Recipe: Lentil and Butternut Squash Vegetarian Chili with Spicy Chickpea Quinoa Crackers

One Pot Steak and Black Beans Chili

A bowl of chili topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and avocado slices, accompanied by pieces of cornbread. — One Pot Steak and Black Beans Chili. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Chunks of steak simmer with black beans and a tomato base until everything is tender and rich. One pot makes it easy to prep and clean up. It’s bold, filling, and great for feeding a group. Add fresh cilantro or lime before serving.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Steak and Black Beans 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 .

This copycat brings together turkey, beans, corn, and a lightly sweet, smoky broth. It’s a bit lighter than traditional chili but still satisfying. Works well for lunches or meal prep. Add cheese or avocado on top.
Get the Recipe: Panera Bread Turkey Chili Recipe

Instant Pot White Chicken Chili

Shredded chicken cooks with white beans, green chiles, and spices for a creamy, slightly spicy chili. It’s smooth and hearty without being too heavy. Great with lime juice or tortilla strips. A fresh twist on chili night.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot White Chicken Chili

Instant Pot Millet + Pinto Bean Vegan Chili

Millet gives this chili a unique texture while pinto beans bring creaminess and depth. It’s plant-based, filling, and easy to customize. Cooks quickly in the pressure cooker. Serve with hot sauce or chopped scallions.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Millet + Pinto Bean Vegan Chili

Instant Pot Vegan Acorn Squash Chili

Acorn squash adds sweetness and softness to this spicy, savory chili. Beans and tomatoes round it out. It’s cozy and bright in flavor. Great with cornbread or rice.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Vegan Acorn Squash Chili

Hearty Beef Chili

A bowl of chili surrounded by shredded cheese, jalapeños, sour cream, cornbread, chips, bacon, herbs, onions, and seasonings, with metal serving utensils nearby. — Hearty Beef Chili. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella .

A classic beef chili with ground meat, beans, and bold spices simmered into a thick, savory base. It’s rich and satisfying. Best served with your favorite toppings. A staple recipe for cold weather.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Beef Chili

Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Buffalo sauce brings heat and tang to this creamy chili made with shredded chicken and white beans. It’s fast to make and full of bold flavor. Add blue cheese or ranch on top. A great game day dish.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Chili

Hearty Pumpkin Chili

A bowl of chili topped with avocado and peppers. — Hearty Pumpkin Chili. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Pumpkin puree gives this chili a creamy texture and subtle sweetness that balances the heat. Add beans, tomatoes, and your favorite seasonings. It’s cozy, colorful, and perfect for fall. Top with green onions or cheese.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Pumpkin Chili

Instant Pot Chocolate Chipotle Chili

Dark chocolate and chipotle peppers combine for a deep, smoky, slightly sweet chili that’s rich and unique. It’s bold without being overwhelming. The Instant Pot brings it all together quickly. Serve with cornbread or sour cream.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chocolate Chipotle Chili

Dutch Oven Chili

Simmered low and slow in a Dutch oven, this chili develops deep flavor with beef, tomatoes, and spices. It’s thick, hearty, and great for gatherings. Serve with rice or baked potatoes. A weekend favorite.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Chili

Mixed Bean Chili

This version uses a blend of beans for texture and color in a rich tomato base. It’s meatless but still hearty. Add corn, peppers, or squash to bulk it up. A flexible pantry meal.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Bean Chili

Slow Cooker No Bean Chili

A bowl of chili topped with shredded cheese, sliced avocado, jalapeño, and a dollop of sour cream, placed on a black and white checkered cloth next to a spoon and halved avocado. — Slow Cooker No Bean Chili. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget .

For those who skip the beans, this meat-heavy chili simmers all day in a slow cooker for deep, rich flavor. It’s thick and spicy. Great for chili dogs, baked potatoes, or just a big bowl on its own.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker No Bean Chili

Instant Pot Chili

A basic but reliable version with beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices. The Instant Pot cooks it fast without sacrificing taste. A solid weeknight dinner. Add toppings to change it up each time.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chili

Instant Pot Crack Chicken Chili

Cream cheese, ranch, chicken, and bacon make this a rich, over-the-top chili with tons of flavor. It’s thick, creamy, and full of texture. Best served with something fresh or crisp on the side. Comfort food to the max.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Crack Chicken Chili

Instant Pot Chili Mac

This mash-up brings chili and macaroni together in one pot. It’s cheesy, meaty, and great for quick dinners. Kids love it. Serve hot and top with more cheese or green onions.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chili Mac

Instant Pot Three Bean Chicken Chili

Chicken and a trio of beans simmer in a seasoned broth with tomatoes and spices. It’s hearty without being too heavy. The pressure cooker makes it easy. Add toppings like avocado or tortilla strips.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Three Bean Chicken Chili