Chili is the ultimate comfort food, but there’s no need to stick to the basics! This collection of recipes explores bold flavors, unique proteins, and smoky techniques that take chili to new heights. From smoked beef shank to kabocha squash, these recipes offer something for every palate and occasion.
Game meats like venison and wild hog add rich, hearty flavors, while lighter options like smoked white chicken chili and turkey with butternut squash offer healthier twists. For adventurous cooks, dishes like chocolate lamb chili and spicy hummus turkey chili push flavor boundaries in exciting ways.
Whether you’re hosting a chili cook-off, preparing for a cozy night in, or looking to spice up your weekly meal rotation, these recipes are packed with flavor and inspiration. Grab your favorite pot, smoker, or slow cooker, and dive into the world of creative chili dishes!
Smoked Beef Shank Over the Top Chili Recipe
Smoked beef shank adds incredible depth to this chili, transforming a classic dish into a smoky masterpiece. Once you try it, you’ll never make chili the same way again.
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Wild Hog Chili
This hearty and spicy chili features wild hog meat, beans, and a bold spice blend. Perfect for adventurous cooks seeking a unique and flavorful take on a classic.
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Smoked Pulled Pork Chili
A rich and smoky chili made with tender pulled pork, beans, and aromatic spices. This comforting dish is ideal for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings.
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Venison Chili
Lean venison brings a unique, hearty flavor to this chili. A great option for game meat enthusiasts or anyone seeking a delicious twist on traditional chili.
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Traeger Chicken Chili
This comforting chili is infused with smoky flavor from the Traeger grill. Tender chicken, beans, and spices make it perfect for a satisfying meal on cooler days.
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Smoked Cincinnati Chili Recipe
A smoky spin on Cincinnati chili, this recipe combines unique spices with smoky undertones for a delicious twist on a regional favorite.
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Smoked Over The Top No-Bean Chili Recipe
Robust and meaty, this no-bean chili is smoked to perfection, offering hearty flavors ideal for chili enthusiasts who love bold, smoky dishes.
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Smoked White Chicken Chili
A lighter yet flavorful alternative, this smoked white chicken chili pairs creamy textures with smoky undertones, creating a satisfying bowl perfect for any day.
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5-Ingredient White Chicken Chili
Tender chicken, creamy beans, green chilies, and aromatic spices come together in this simple, hearty chili. Ready in no time, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.
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Smoked Chili (Includes Over the Top Chili Instructions)
Packed with smoked ground beef, sausage, and a medley of spices, this chili is bold, rich, and perfect for those who love deep, smoky flavors.
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Dutch Oven White Chicken Chili
Fresh ingredients elevate this creamy, spicy white chicken chili, making it a crowd favorite at potlucks and dinner tables alike.
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Smoked Over the Top Chili
This smoked chili recipe takes traditional flavors to new heights, combining a rich depth of flavor with classic chili ingredients for a bold, satisfying dish.
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Hearty Sirloin Steak Chili (Stove Top, Slow Cooker)
Tender chunks of sirloin simmered with beans, tomatoes, and spices create a comforting, hearty chili perfect for cold nights or game day.
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Traeger Brisket Chili
Smoked brisket brings a deep, savory flavor to this hearty chili. It’s an indulgent and warming dish that’s ideal for satisfying a big appetite.
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Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
This slow-cooked chili combines turkey, beans, and spices for a healthy, comforting meal that practically makes itself. Perfect for busy days or meal prep.
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Ground Turkey Chili with Butternut Squash
Butternut squash adds natural sweetness to this flavorful turkey chili. Guests will be amazed at the rich taste and won’t miss the beef in this healthy, comforting dish.
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Easy Steak Chili
Juicy chunks of steak simmered in a rich, spicy sauce make this chili a hearty favorite for game day or cold evenings.
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Colorado Green Chili
Rich and smoky, this green chili recipe uses roasted ingredients to create a deep, layered flavor. An authentic taste of Colorado that’s better than most restaurant versions.
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Spicy Hummus Turkey Chili
Creamy hummus adds a unique twist to this spicy turkey chili, making it a comforting, one-pot dinner perfect for chilly winter nights.
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Brisket Chili
Use up leftover brisket in this chunky chili loaded with beans, peppers, and corn. A cozy, hearty dish for any day of the week.
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Chocolate Lamb Chili
Chopped lamb stew meat meets smoky spices and a touch of chocolate for a chili that’s reminiscent of mole sauce. A rich, unique dish for adventurous eaters.
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Kabocha Squash Chili
Hearty and flavorful, this vegetarian chili uses nutty kabocha squash for a filling and satisfying dish that’s perfect for fall or winter.
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Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili
A creamy, slightly sweet chili with tender chicken, apples, and cheddar cheese. A non-traditional, cozy dish that’s perfect for autumn evenings.
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Short Rib Chili
Porter beer and tender short ribs make this chili a spicy, rich bowl of comfort. Ideal for meal prep, it freezes well and tastes even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Short Rib Chili