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20 Chili and Stew Recipes for Cold Days

There’s something comforting about a bowl of stew or chili simmering on the stove, filling the kitchen with the best, most comforting scents. Whether you prefer smoky, gamey, or more traditional flavors, this collection has you covered. With each recipe, you’ll find a unique way to enjoy warming fall and winter meals that go beyond just the basics.

From wild hog to venison and brisket, these recipes explore creative ways to make use of different meats. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, there are chicken and turkey options as well, packed with beans and spices for added texture and flavor. There’s even room for regional favorites, with twists on classics like Cincinnati chili and Irish stew.

Many of these dishes are designed for slow cookers, pressure cookers, or grills, making them easy to prepare while you relax. Explore the list, find your favorites, and enjoy meals that are as satisfying to cook as they are to eat.

Wild Hog Chili

Wild Hog Chili. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This hearty chili uses wild hog meat for a bold, savory taste, simmered with beans and spices. It’s a great way to try something different that still feels familiar.
Get the Recipe: Wild Hog Chili

Smoked Pulled Pork Chili

Smoked Pulled Pork Chili. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Tender pulled pork, slow-cooked with beans and spices, gives this chili a deep, smoky richness. A comforting choice for cold evenings.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pulled Pork Chili

Mexican Beef Stew

Mexican Beef Stew. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Tender beef and vegetables are simmered in a flavorful broth with spices for a stew that adds a warm, Mexican-inspired touch to your table.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Beef Stew

Venison Chili

Venison Chili. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This chili swaps in venison for a lean, flavorful twist on a classic. It’s a cozy meal for those who enjoy trying different proteins.
Get the Recipe: Venison Chili

Traeger Chicken Chili

Traeger Chicken Chili. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Grilled chicken cooked on the Traeger grill brings smoky flavors to this chili, making it a satisfying meal on chilly days.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Chicken Chili

Smoked Cincinnati Chili Recipe

Smoked Cincinnati Chili Recipe. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A smoky take on Cincinnati’s signature spiced chili, offering a unique and rich flavor that’s perfect for those curious about regional favorites.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cincinnati Chili Recipe

Smoked White Chicken Chili

Smoked White Chicken Chili. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This white chili uses grilled chicken and a mix of beans and spices for a smoky, lighter meal that’s still hearty enough to satisfy.
Get the Recipe: Smoked White Chicken Chili

5-Ingredient White Chicken Chili

5-Ingredient White Chicken Chili. Photo credit: Blackberry Babe.

With just five simple ingredients—chicken, white beans, green chilies, spices, and broth—this creamy chili is quick to make and perfect for cozy nights.
Get the Recipe: 5-Ingredient White Chicken Chili

Traeger Irish Beef Stew

Traeger Irish Beef Stew. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Classic Irish stew meets smoky goodness, with beef slow-cooked on the Traeger grill, creating a deeply flavorful meal for colder days.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Irish Beef Stew

Smoked Stuffed Pepper Stew

Smoked Stuffed Pepper Stew. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This stew combines the familiar taste of stuffed peppers with a smoky spin, ideal for a satisfying dinner when the weather cools.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Stuffed Pepper Stew

Smoked Over the Top Chili

Smoked Over the Top Chili. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This chili takes traditional flavors up a notch with a smoked meat topping that adds rich depth. Great for those wanting to try something new.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Over the Top Chili

Healthy Pressure Cooker White Chicken Chili Soup

Healthy Pressure Cooker White Chicken Chili Soup. Photo credit: The Creative Bite.

A fast, flavorful white chicken chili made in a pressure cooker, offering a nutritious way to enjoy a warming meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Pressure Cooker White Chicken Chili Soup

Hearty Sirloin Steak Chili (Stove Top, Slow Cooker)

Hearty Sirloin Steak Chili (Stove Top, Slow Cooker). Photo credit: Blackberry Babe.

This chili stars tender sirloin steak simmered with beans and spices. Whether cooked on the stove or in a slow cooker, it’s perfect for game days or family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Sirloin Steak Chili (Stove Top, Slow Cooker)

Traeger Brisket Chili

Traeger Brisket Chili. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Smoked brisket brings bold flavors to this hearty chili, making it an ideal meal when you need something warm and filling.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Brisket Chili

Slow Cooker Turkey Chili

Slow Cooker Turkey Chili. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

This turkey chili, packed with beans and spices, makes a healthy and satisfying meal. The slow cooker does the work, giving you more time to relax.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Turkey Chili

Easy Steak Chili

Easy Steak Chili. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Chunks of tender steak are simmered in a spicy sauce to create a hearty dish that’s perfect for game day or any cold night.
Get the Recipe: Easy Steak Chili

Instant Pot Beef and Mushroom Stew

Instant Pot Beef and Mushroom Stew. Photo credit: Running To The Kitchen.

This beef and mushroom stew comes together quickly in the Instant Pot, delivering a rich and satisfying meal without a long wait.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Beef and Mushroom Stew

Red Wine Beef Stew Stuffed Potatoes

Red Wine Beef Stew Stuffed Potatoes. Photo credit: Running To The Kitchen.

Thick beef stew with red wine is served over baked potatoes for a hearty meal that’s perfect for cold nights.
Get the Recipe: Red Wine Beef Stew Stuffed Potatoes

Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili

Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili. Photo credit: Running To The Kitchen.

A fun, fall-inspired chili featuring tender chicken, sweet apple, white beans, and cheddar cheese for a flavorful mix that’s both creamy and unexpected.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili

Short Rib Chili

Short Rib Chili. Photo credit: Running To The Kitchen.

Porter beer adds depth to this short rib chili, which tastes even better the next day. It also freezes well for future meals.
Get the Recipe: Short Rib Chili