Often, the perfect comfort food is just a simmer away. There’s something undeniably mouthwatering about the aroma of chili wafting from your crockpot on a chilly day, filling your home with warmth and inviting you in for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re a meat lover, a veggie enthusiast, or somewhere in between, I’ve curated a collection of crockpot chili recipes that cater to every taste preference and dietary need.
If you’re looking for even more creative slow cooker ideas, be sure to check out our top picks for best crockpot casserole recipes and best summer crockpot recipes as well. Now, get ready to unlock the cozy magic of your slow cooker with these unbeatable chili concoctions that promise to elevate your culinary adventures this season! Here are the top-rated chili crockpot recipes to inspire your next feast:
CLASSIC SLOW COOKER BEEF CHILI
Wrapping your senses in warmth is what Natasha’s Kitchen does best, and their classic beef chili recipe delivers just that. This timeless dish lets the slow cooker take center stage, effortlessly combining ground beef, kidney beans, and tomatoes to create a rich tapestry of flavors. As the hours tick by, the spices mature and mingle, producing an unmistakable depth and satisfying flavor that’s the hallmark of any great chili.
Complete this culinary masterpiece with a generous helping of cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream for a truly indulgent comfort food experience.
TURKEY AND CORN CHILI
Elevate your culinary game with a deliciously lightened-up take on traditional chili. By combining ground turkey with sweet corn, black beans, and a hint of lime juice, this recipe offers a refreshing twist on the classic dish that’s both flavorful and lean. Perfect for those seeking a healthier option without sacrificing flavor, this turkey and corn chili is an excellent choice for a satisfying meal.
The use of a crockpot ensures that the ground turkey becomes incredibly tender, while the spices infuse beautifully throughout the cooking process, resulting in a well-balanced and mouthwatering final product.
BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND BEAN CHILI
When it comes to making a vegetarian chili that truly impresses, look no further than a recipe that incorporates butternut squash and beans. The sweet, nutty flavor of the squash perfectly complements the earthy taste of mixed beans, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Cumin and chili powder add a touch of heat, while the chunky texture of the squash adds depth to each spoonful.
This colorful, nutritious option is not only a treat for the taste buds but also boasts an impressive array of health benefits.
SPICY CHORIZO CHILI
Preparing a meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor can be achieved with a simple yet effective approach – slow cooking. Packed with protein and fiber, this spicy chorizo chili is an ideal choice for those seeking a satisfying dinner option. The combination of smoky chorizo sausage, jalapeños, and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce creates a bold and invigorating flavor profile that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Meanwhile, kidney and pinto beans add natural sweetness and help to balance out the heat, making this dish a true winner for chilly evenings.
CREAMY WHITE CHICKEN CHILI
Transform your usual dinner routine with a delicious twist by trying out this creamy white chicken chili recipe, which offers a rich and satisfying experience without sacrificing flavor. This recipe combines the best of ingredients, including tender chicken breasts, great northern beans, and green chilies, all simmered in a creamy broth infused with aromatic garlic and warm cumin notes.
Unlike traditional tomato-based chili, this version is lighter on calories while still delivering a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more. To complete the dish, serve it with some crunchy tortilla strips and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a perfect finishing touch.
VEGAN SWEET POTATO CHILI
Sweet indulgence has its place in a plant-based diet, and what better way to satisfy those cravings than with a rich and satisfying vegan sweet potato chili? This innovative dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the bold flavors of black beans and bell peppers, all perfectly balanced by a generous sprinkling of paprika and chili powder. By letting your crockpot do the work, you’ll be rewarded with a hearty, filling meal that’s as comforting as it is good for you.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to mix things up, this recipe is sure to delight even the most discerning palates. Check out more healthy sweet potato recipes and explore the world of plant-based comfort food!
BEEF AND BEER CHILI
Most people would agree that there’s something special about a good chili recipe, and this one is no exception. By combining beef and beer in a harmonious union, it creates an unforgettable taste experience. The use of stout beer not only amplifies the rich flavor of the beef but also adds a depth of character through its malty sweetness. Meanwhile, the black beans contribute to the dish’s overall heartiness, making each spoonful a true delight.
Whether you’re watching a game or just need a comforting meal, this chili recipe is sure to hit the spot and leave you wanting more.
THREE-BEAN VEGETARIAN CHILI
Zesty flavors abound in this three-bean vegetarian chili recipe, making it a perfect option for those looking to satisfy their cravings without the need for meat. With kidney, black, and pinto beans at its core, this dish is a masterclass in texture and flavor combination, as each bean type absorbs the rich blend of tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices.
The result is a fiber-rich meal that will keep you full and content, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and health-conscious individuals alike. Adding a sprinkle of cheese and some avocado slices on top elevates this dish to new heights, providing a delightful balance of creaminess and indulgence.
PORK CHILI RECIPE WITH ROASTED HATCH CHILES
Highlighting the essence of a great comfort food, this pork chili recipe brings together tender pork shoulder, richly flavored roasted New Mexican peppers, smoky fire-roasted tomatoes, and an abundance of aromatic spices to create the perfect spicy chili. It’s an ideal dish for game day gatherings.
LENTIL AND MUSHROOM CHILI
Many foodies and health enthusiasts alike know the importance of eating well, and one way to do so is by indulging in hearty lentil and mushroom chili. This vegetarian recipe boasts an array of complex flavors thanks to its rich mixture of sautéed onions, simmered lentils, meaty mushrooms, and a subtle hint of red wine for added depth. The result is a satisfying and filling dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening, it’s a recipe that even the most devoted carnivores will appreciate.
BUFFALO CHICKEN CHILI
Renowned food blogger Half Baked Harvest has cleverly combined the essence of two popular dishes – buffalo wings and chili – to create an innovative recipe that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. The result is a harmonious blend of shredded chicken, white beans, and corn bathed in a spicy buffalo sauce, skillfully tempered with a hint of cream cheese to balance out its fiery kick.
This bold, flavorful dish brings a thrilling twist to the classic crockpot routine and can be elevated even further by topping it with crumbled blue cheese and chopped celery for an authentic buffalo wing experience.
SMOKY BACON AND BEAN CHILI
Pour yourself a bowl of this mouth-watering smoky bacon and bean chili, and get ready to experience a symphony of flavors. With its rich and savory depth courtesy of the crispy bacon, combined with ground beef and a trio of beans simmered in a bold, smoky tomato base, this recipe is perfect for when you need a hearty meal to warm your soul from the inside out.
CARIBBEAN JERK CHICKEN CHILI
Yesterday, dinner enthusiasts were likely looking for ways to add some excitement to their meal planning. One option is to try a Caribbean jerk chicken chili, which combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with tender chicken pieces, black beans, and sweet pineapples for a unique twist. The result is a standout dish that’s both spicy and savory, making it perfect for serving with fluffy rice or warm flatbreads to soak up all the delicious sauce.
ZESTY ITALIAN SAUSAGE CHILI
By combining the bold flavors of Italian sausage with the classic ingredients of a traditional chili, this recipe creates a truly unique and delicious dish. The spicy kick from the sausage pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the bell peppers, while the onions add a depth of flavor that complements the diced tomatoes nicely. The cannellini beans not only provide a creamy texture but also help to balance out the bold flavors, making each spoonful a rich and satisfying experience.
Bringing a touch of Italian flair to your traditional chili night is easier than you think with this recipe.
CUBAN-INSPIRED PORK AND BLACK BEAN CHILI
Step into the world of Cuban cuisine with a mouth-watering pork and black bean chili that’s sure to transport your taste buds to the Caribbean. The slow-cooked pork shoulder develops an incredibly rich flavor when combined with tender black beans, a medley of aromatic spices, and a burst of citrusy freshness from the orange zest, resulting in a delightfully refreshing twist on traditional chili.
Whether you’re hosting a lively gathering or simply looking for a comforting meal to share with your loved ones, this hearty and flavorful dish is sure to become a new favorite.
SWEET AND SPICY CHICKEN CHILI
Keeping in mind the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, Sally’s Baking Addiction presents a deliciously addictive chili recipe. The harmonious union of honey and chipotle peppers yields a sauce that is both fiery and subtly sweet, perfectly coating tender chunks of chicken. Adding freshness and a pleasant crunch are bell peppers and corn, making this an effortless yet flavorful dish.
MOROCCAN-INSPIRED LAMB CHILI
Looking to break free from the usual flavors? A Moroccan-inspired lamb chili is just what you need. The combination of tender lamb, sweet apricots, and aromatic spices such as cumin and cinnamon creates a dish that’s both fragrant and flavorful. Chickpeas add a satisfying texture, making this hearty meal perfect for chilly evenings when you want to warm up your taste buds and transport yourself to the vibrant markets of Morocco.
CHEESY BEEF AND JALAPEÑO CHILI
Happily indulging in a cheesy beef and jalapeño chili is like experiencing a match made in heaven. The combination of ground beef, spicy jalapeño peppers, and an abundance of cheddar cheese creates a rich and creamy flavor profile that’s both comforting and tantalizingly spicy. As the dish undergoes its slow cooking process, all the flavors expertly meld together, resulting in a chili that’s bursting with taste and leaving you wanting more.
This cheesy delight is truly perfect for any self-proclaimed cheese aficionado.
PALEO SWEET POTATO AND BISON CHILI
Varying your diet can be a challenge, especially when following a specific eating plan like Paleo. This sweet potato and bison chili recipe is designed to help you stay on track while still enjoying a delicious and nutritious meal. By combining lean bison meat with sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and a blend of spices, you get a flavorful and filling dish that adheres to the Paleo dietary guidelines, allowing you to indulge without any guilt or worries about compromising your eating plan.
CHIPOTLE TURKEY AND SWEET ONION CHILI
Crafting a delicious twist on the classic turkey chili, Clare Cooks brings us her chipotle turkey and sweet onion chili recipe. This mouth-watering dish combines ground turkey, caramelized sweet onions, and smoky chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to create a flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory. The result is a lighter chili option that’s packed with taste and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner without sacrificing any of the richness and depth that makes a great chili so enjoyable.
MEDITERRANEAN CHICKPEA CHILI
Join the culinary journey to the sun-kissed Mediterranean, where flavors are bold and ingredients are carefully selected for their nutritional value and rich taste. This chickpea chili recipe brings together the best of both worlds, blending chickpeas with zucchini and bell peppers in a harmonious medley of Mediterranean spices that will transport you to the coast without leaving your kitchen.
The result is a vibrant dish that’s not only stunningly colorful but also refreshingly light and utterly delicious.
BBQ PORK AND BEAN CHILI
Taking its cue from the rich flavors of Southern barbecue, this BBQ pork and bean recipe adds a delightful twist to traditional chili. The slow-cooked pork and baked beans meld together with a tangy BBQ sauce that’s both sweet and smoky, creating a dish that’s at once familiar and excitingly new. This perfect blend of comforting warmth and bold flavor makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to mix things up without sacrificing the heartiness of a classic chili.
GREEN CHILE AND CHICKEN CHILI
Renowned for its simplicity and versatility, The Jam Jar Kitchen presents a delightful green chile and chicken chili recipe that perfectly balances freshness with flavor. This light yet satisfying dish is made by combining the natural sweetness of green chiles, the creaminess of white beans, and the tenderness of shredded chicken, resulting in a milder flavor profile that still packs a punch.
It’s an excellent option for those who prefer their chili less spicy but still rich in taste, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
ROASTED RED PEPPER AND BEEF CHILI
A pinch of roasted red peppers adds an unexpected depth to this hearty beef chili recipe. The sweetness of the peppers balances out the richness of the ground beef, creating a harmonious flavor combination that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With just the right amount of smoked paprika and chili flakes, this dish is a perfect comfort food for cold winter nights, guaranteed to warm both body and soul.
MUSHROOM BULGUR BEAN CHILI
Unlock the secrets to a satisfying and nutritious meal with this incredible vegan mushroom bulgur bean chili. This one-pot comfort food dish is not only packed with plant protein but also boasts an array of nutrient-dense ingredients that will leave you feeling full and energized. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a convenient meal prep option, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen and a favorite among both vegetarians and vegans alike.
KOREAN BBQ CHILI
Zeal for new flavors is what sets this recipe apart from the usual chili fare. By combining Korean BBQ flavors with classic chili ingredients, we create a unique fusion that will tantalize your taste buds. To get started, use ground beef marinated in a sweet and savory Korean BBQ sauce, mixed with the spicy depth of gochujang (Korean chili paste), and add some kimchi for an extra layer of flavor. This globally inspired dish is sure to turn traditional chili on its head.
MAPLE BACON CHILI
While browsing through various recipes online, I stumbled upon a dish that caught my attention – Maple bacon chili. This mouth-watering creation combines the rich flavors of smoky bacon, sweet maple syrup, and a hearty chili base to produce a truly unique taste experience. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate a touch of sweetness in their savory dishes and are looking to add some excitement to their mealtime.
SPICY VEGAN JACKFRUIT CHILI
Not only are crockpot chili recipes incredibly versatile, but they also evoke a sense of cozy warmth that’s perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or sweet, there’s a unique twist on traditional chili to suit your taste buds. For example, the jackfruit chili is an excellent option for those looking for a vegan alternative.
This fruit has a texture similar to pulled pork and absorbs flavors remarkably well, making it an ideal base for a hearty and satisfying meal. Paired with beans, corn, and a blend of spices, it’s a cruelty-free way to enjoy a spicy dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Moreover, the variety of crockpot chili recipes available is vast, ensuring there’s something exciting for every palate.
From fiery habanero pork to sweet and smoky maple bacon, each recipe offers a distinct flavor profile that will keep you coming back for more. And with the convenience of using a crockpot, you can simply toss in your ingredients, forget about them for hours, and return to a pot full of rich, melded flavors that are sure to impress even the most discerning eaters.
Some Slow Cooker ITEMS You Can Buy:
Perfectly suited for large families or entertaining, slow cookers are a staple in many kitchens. They offer a generous capacity that can comfortably serve 9+ people or fit a 7-pound roast, making them ideal for big gatherings and parties. The Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR) is one such example, featuring high or low slow cooking settings with a convenient warm function to achieve the perfect serving temperature.
With its set it and forget it feature, you can cook while at work or performing daily tasks without having to constantly monitor the cooker. Another popular option is the Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Slow Cooker with 3 Cooking Settings, Dishwasher-Safe Stoneware Crock & Glass Lid, Silver (33665G). It’s perfect for family meals and entertaining, boasting a large 6 quart stoneware crock that can hold enough food to serve 7+ people.
The full-grip handles make it easy to carry, and the cooker’s simple design makes it effortless to create delicious meals with minimal effort. For those who prefer a more versatile option, the Sunvivi Dual Pot Slow Cooker, 2 Pot Small Mini Crock Buffet Server and Warmer, Upgraded Oval Ceramic Double Pot Buffet Food Warmer Adjustable Temp Glass Lid, Total 2.5 Quarts is an excellent choice.
This dual pot slow cooker allows you to cook two dishes at once, making it perfect for busy households or when entertaining large groups. The pots feature spoon notches for easy storage while cooking, and the ceramic construction makes cleaning a breeze.
