55 Crowd-Pleasing Chili Recipes

Updated October 30, 2018 by Food Network Canada Editors

With chilly days well underway, we continue to crave classic, cold-weather eats. At the top of the list: the best homemade chili. Served in a big bowl or poured over nachos, made vegetarian, southwestern, turkey or beef, we've rounded up our easy chili recipes to serve up for dinner tonight.

1 of 55

Super Easy Slow-Cooker Chili

It’s all in the name with this recipe. After a quick sauté of the vegetables and ground beef, this flavour-packed chili mingles and mellows for a low and slow cook in your slow cooker. With beans, beef, tomatoes, peppers and more, you’ll be eating well for days after whipping up a batch. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/super-easy-slow-cooker-chili/15274/" target="_blank">Super Easy Slow-Cooker Chili </a>
2 of 55

Cornbread Topped Cast-Iron Skillet Chili

Cooked and served in a cast-iron skillet, this chunky, spicy, classic beef chili recipe is topped with hunks of cornbread for a meal in one. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cornbread-topped-cast-iron-skillet-chili/19733/" target="_blank">Cornbread Topped Cast-Iron Skillet Chili</a>
3 of 55
4 of 55

Dragon’s Breath Chili

Instead of crusty bread, bake up a batch of oven fries to serve alongside this smoky, fiery chili. Boneless chuck, ground beef and sweet Italian sausage deliver major flavour to this meaty dish that gets its heat from a combination of Anaheim, poblano and jalapeno chiles. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/dragons-breath-chili/21224/" target="_blank">Dragon’s Breath Chili</a>
5 of 55

Hearty Vegetarian Chili with Butternut Squash

Chili is ideal sport-watching fuel, so you can keep an eye on the game, not the pot (or slow cooker). Pleasing to vegetarians and meat eaters alike, this gold-hued variation is sure to delight and surprise any diner. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/hearty-vegetarian-chili-with-butternut-squash/15238/" target="_blank">Hearty Vegetarian Chili with Butternut Squash</a>
6 of 55

Game Day Chili

Take game day to a whole new level with this easy-peasy recipe that allows you customize your dish based on which meats you prefer. Go for beef, pork shoulder, veal or a combination of all three for a flavourful chili - and don’t forget the toppings. A selection of cheese, scallions, corn chips and sour cream will allow your guests to customize their bowls. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/game-day-chili/21219/" target="_blank">Geoffrey Zakarian’s Game Day Chili</a>
7 of 55

Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili

Chili really is a versatile recipe, and this version from The Pioneer Woman is packed with bold flavours. Shredded chicken breast, green chiles and beans come together beautifully in a creamy sauce made with milk and masa. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-white-chicken-chili/20684/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili</a>
8 of 55

Pork and Black Bean Chili

This robust slow cooker chili, with pork loin, bacon and black beans, is made in just one pot. Serve it up for dinner, and use the leftovers in burritos, tacos, or to <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chili-stuffed-sweet-potato/20611/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">top a baked potato</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/love-your-lunch/recipe/pork-and-black-bean-chili/20604/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pork and Black Bean Chili</a>
9 of 55

Vegetarian Skillet Chili Topped With Cornbread

Turn vegetarian butternut squash chili into a hearty one-pan meal by topping it with mouthwatering cornmeal cheddar biscuits. Sour cream and pickles are perfect for serving alongside this easy chili recipe. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegetarian-skillet-chili-topped-with-cornbread/20474/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Vegetarian Skillet Chili Topped With Cornbread</a>
10 of 55

Three Bean Turkey Chili

This hearty, healthy, easy turkey chili recipe has pinto, black and kidney beans, plus diced green chiles for an extra kick. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream and scallions before serving. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/three-bean-turkey-chili/19905/" target="_blank">Valerie Bertinelli's Three Bean Turkey Chili</a>
11 of 55

California Turkey Chili

A southwest turkey (or chicken) chili recipe with a healthy California twist. Ground turkey, poblano chiles and a blend of southwestern spices create a chili that's satisfying on its own, or can be served with brown rice or quinoa. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/california-turkey-chili/19658/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' California Turkey Chili</a>
12 of 55

Chili Con Carne

This beef chili really hits the spot when served with crusty bread, or, even better, fresh garlic bread. A classic chili recipe never goes out of style. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chili-con-carne/17851/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Chili Con Carne</a>
13 of 55

Ranch-Style Turkey Chili

Char your poblano peppers over the stovetop to give your chili the smoky, rich flavour synonymous with a ranch-style spicy southwest chili recipe, here, made with fresh herbs, ground turkey and pinto beans. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ranch-style-turkey-chili/19126/" target="_blank">Rachael Ray’s Ranch Style Turkey Chili</a>
14 of 55

Instant Pot Quick Taco-Style Chili

Let your Instant Pot help you cook up a batch of chili — fast! Besides starting with canned or pre-cooked beans, this recipe has another handy hack — using taco seasoning to infuse the whole pot with flavour in a flash. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/quick-taco-style-chili/21238/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Quick Taco-Style Chili</a>
15 of 55

Quick Chili

Rich, hearty and spicy chili has long been a staple of the Stampede, a Texas invention that has found a new home in Alberta. And the best thing to serve up at your Stampede party? Texas homestyle chili, of course. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/quick-chili/18476/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Quick Chili</a>
16 of 55

Ryder’s Turkey Chili

Don’t sweat over this kid-friendly chili that is made with a toned down heat level, ground turkey and three different types of beans. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ryders-turkey-chili/21197/" target="_blank">Ryder’s Turkey Chili</a>
17 of 55

Cornbread-Topped Chili Pot Pie

Cornbread and <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/10-best-chili-recipes-to-feed-a-crowd/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">chili</a> are culinary soul mates, and this pot pie marries the two in a dish that's like a warm hug on a cold day. A cornbread batter covers a classic beef chili recipe with both ground beef and stewing beef, for a complete meal the whole family will love. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cornbread-topped-chili-pot-pie/20804/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Cornbread-Topped Chili Pot Pie</a>
18 of 55

Red Beef Chili

With three kinds of chiles and another three types of chilli powder, this hearty bowl of homestyle beef chili topped with a toasted cumin crema packs quite the punch. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/red-beef-chili/15759/" target="_blank">Bobby Flay's Red Beef Chili</a>
19 of 55

Ready-to-Go Chili Packets

The Pioneer Woman recommends batch cooking this easy beef chili recipe, and then freezing it in freezer-safe containers or bags that can be easily defrosted for quick weeknight meals. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ready-to-go-chili-packets/20721/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Ready-to-Go Chili Packets</a>
20 of 55

White Bean and Chicken Chili

Simple, rustic and an all-around comforting meal, this white bean chicken chili recipe is loaded with nutritious Swiss chard, along with Parmesan and fresh parsley for a satisfying dinner you won't forget. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/white-bean-and-chicken-chili/15916/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' White Bean and Chicken Chili</a>
21 of 55

Chicken Chili

Low in calories but big on flavour, this light chicken and vegetable chili from Ina Garten is a real crowd-pleaser. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-chili/15396/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Chicken Chili</a>
22 of 55

Mexican Chorizo and Turkey Chili

 For a simple post-holiday weeknight meal, turn to that leftover turkey and add it to this spicy and flavourful chili. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mexican-chorizo-and-turkey-chili/15716/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rachael Ray's Mexican Chorizo and Turkey Chili</a>
23 of 55

Meaty, Meat-less Chili

Get the same comfort food satisfaction that a classic beef chili offers in this delicious vegetarian option loaded with beans, mushrooms and tomatoes. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/meaty-meat-less-chili/16827/" target="_blank">Rachael Ray's Meaty, Meat-less Chili</a>
24 of 55

Chicken, White Bean and Corn Chili

Anna Olson shares her chili variation, swapping out beef for chicken and an abundance of colourful veggies. A healthy homemade chicken chili recipe that everyone at the table will love. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-white-bean-and-corn-chili/13835/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Chicken, White Bean and Corn Chili</a>
25 of 55

Chili Dogs

Homemade chili dogs are so easy to make – and you should definitely make them! Get the napkins out for this messy but oh-so-satisfying classic. No need to simmer for hours, this easy one-pan chili dog sauce recipe is simple to assemble and doesn’t skimp on flavour. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chili-dogs/18354/" target="_blank">Tyler Florence’s Chili Dogs</a>
26 of 55

Killer Choco Chili

This classic chili recipe with all the fixings has a unique twist: a chocolate bar is added to the mix to counteract the spicy-savoury flavour with a little something sweet-bitter. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/killer-choco-chili/15380/" target="_blank">Killer Choco Chili</a>
27 of 55

Serrano Chili Chicken

Seared chicken breasts are stewed with mushrooms in a spicy serrano chili sauce. Topped with guacamole, salsa and sour cream, and then served with grilled flatbread, this fresh chicken chili recipe is a must-try. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/serrano-chili-chicken/15197/" target="_blank">Serrano Chili Chicken</a>
28 of 55

Spicy Chili

Chef Michael Smith serves up this easy chili recipe cooked with bacon, chopped red peppers and lots of chili powder. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spicy-chili/7985/">Michael Smith's Spicy Chili</a>
29 of 55

Bloody Mary Chili

This chili recipe from The Pioneer Woman is cowboy and cowgirl approved! Try this unique twist on classic beef and bean chili, made into a meal with chopped veggies, ranch dressing and tortilla chips. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/bloody-mary-chili/15645/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Bloody Mary Chili</a>
30 of 55

Zucchini Chili

You don’t need meat to make a hearty chili that is full of beans, rice, spinach, zucchini and fresh herbs. Cumin, coriander, thyme and oregano give this delicious and easy vegetarian chili recipe big flavour. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/zucchini-chili/19128/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rachael Ray’s Zucchini Chili</a>
31 of 55

Slow Cooker Chili Baked Beans

Slow cookers were made for beans, creating a protein and fibre-rich side without even turning on the oven. Serve these slow cooker vegetarian chili beans with a refreshing salad and crusty whole grain bread to complete the meal, or enjoy on top of polenta for a comforting yet healthy feast. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-chili-baked-beans/12816/" target="_blank">Anna Olson’s Slow Cooker Chili Baked Beans</a>
32 of 55

Spicy Black Bean and Raisin Chili with Fresh Pineapple and Tortillas

The best black bean chili gets a boost from sweet raisins, jarred salsa and ground beef. Juicy pineapple cools things down. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spicy-black-bean-and-raisin-chili-with-fresh-pineapple-and-tortillas/8056/" target="_blank">Spicy Black Bean and Raisin Chili with Fresh Pineapple and Tortillas</a>
33 of 55

Spicy Three-Meat Chili

This homemade pork, bison and beef chili gets bonus points for being super easy. Just combine the ingredients and let them slow-cook and simmer away, filling your house with their delicious aroma. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spicy-three-meat-chili/17947/" target="_blank">Nancy Fuller's Spicy Three-Meat Chili</a>
34 of 55

Three-Pepper Chicken Chili

This lean chicken chili recipe uses a few types of peppers for fiery, rich depth of flavour. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/three-pepper-chicken-chili/10143/" target="_blank">Anna Olson’s Three-Pepper Chicken Chili</a>
35 of 55

Red-Hot Chili

Maple-cured bacon, plenty of peppers, buckets of beans, sour cream and green onions – this homemade chili recipe is delicious, crowd-pleasing and red-hot! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/red-hot-chili/12198/" target="_blank">Red-Hot Chili</a>
36 of 55

Tofu Chili with Avocado Salad

Hearty tofu provides protein in this easy vegetarian chili recipe with kidney beans, tomatoes, peppers, mushrooms and onions. A healthy, veggie-packed meal. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tofu-chili-with-avocado-salad/17880/" target="_blank">Ricardo's Tofu Chili with Avocado Salad</a>
37 of 55

Chipotle Chicken Chili

With three kinds of beans and tender chicken breast, this cozy chili will be right at home in recipe rotation. It's so good, your family will declare it award winning. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chipotle-chicken-chili/19125/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Chipotle Chicken Chili</a>
38 of 55

Michael Smith's Vegetarian Chili

An easy vegetarian chili recipe that the whole family will love. Get the recipe for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/michael-smiths-vegetarian-chili/13308/">Michael Smith's Vegetarian Chili</a>
39 of 55

Tex-Mex Chili with Tomatillo and Queso Fresco Salsa

Ground beef, spicy Cajun sausages and fiery chilis in adobo give this hearty Texas chili recipe a real kick. Fresh salsa made with fresh tomatillos, lime juice, cilantro and queso fresco balances out the heat. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tex-mex-chili-with-tomatillo-and-queso-fresco-salsa/12951/" target="_blank">Tex-Mex Chili with Tomatillo and Queso Fresco Salsa</a>
40 of 55

30-Minute Turkey Chili

Ground turkey provides that same meatiness of a traditional homestyle chili recipe, with less fat. Top with cilantro, sour cream and tortilla chips for some crunch and added flavour. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/30-minute-turkey-chili/19732/" target="_blank">30-Minute Turkey Chili</a>
41 of 55

Beef and Black Bean Chili with Toasted Cumin Crema

Black beans and chunky beef get a kick from cumin, chipotle and two types of chili powder in this wholesome dish from Bobby Flay. The cool cumin crema and creamy avocado relish help curb the heat in this hearty chili. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/beef-and-black-bean-chili-with-toasted-cumin-crema-and-avocado-relish/19148/" target="_blank">Bobby Flay’s Beef and Black Bean Chili with Toasted Cumin Crema</a>
42 of 55

Roasted Chicken White Chili

Don’t worry, chili lovers, red tomatoes are swapped out for green ones in this cozy, veggie-filled twist on your traditional comfort food. White bean chicken chili doesn't get any better than this. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/roasted-chicken-white-chili/17723/" target="_blank">Damaris Phillips’ Roasted Chicken White Chili</a>
43 of 55

Cheeseburger Chili

Do like Rachael and spoon this delicious chili over homemade fries, or serve this burger in a bowl with a hunk of garlic bread. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cheeseburger-chili/15739/" target="_blank">Rachael Ray’s Cheeseburger Chili</a>
44 of 55

Chili Dog Nachos

Not just named after the delicious comfort food, these chili dog nachos are actually topped with chopped hot dogs, along with plenty of cheese and all the suspected toppings. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chili-dog-nachos/19254/" target="_blank">Rachael Ray's Chili Dog Nachos</a>
45 of 55

Vegetarian Chili with Sweet Potato

Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner, Michael Smith's cheesy vegetarian chili is topped with a layer of mashed sweet potato, then baked until bubbly and lightly browned. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegetarian-chili-with-sweet-potato/13309/" target="_blank">Michael Smith's Vegetarian Chili with Sweet Potato</a>
46 of 55

Okra Chili

If you've never had the pleasure of working with okra, here’s your chance to make use of this versatile Southern vegetable. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/okra-chili/9749/" target="_blank">Roger Mooking's Okra Chili</a>
47 of 55

Pressure Cooker Chili

Fall-apart tender hunks of beef in a rich, complex stew-like chili, this unique and delicious dish features a few unlikely ingredients: tortilla chips and salsa! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pressure-cooker-chili/19766/" target="_blank">Alton Brown's Pressure Cooker Chili</a>
48 of 55

Chili Mac

Pasta meets chili in this quick and easy recipe that doesn't skimp on the beef. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chili-mac/19764/" target="_blank">Rachael Ray's Chili Mac</a>
49 of 55

Tyler's Texas Chili

Chock-full of beef, caramelized onions, tomatoes, chipotle chiles, garlic and a fragrant toasted spice mix, this Texas style homemade chili will not disappoint. Top with queso fresco, cilantro and lime to cool down the spice factor. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tylers-texas-chili/19765/" target="_blank">Tyler's Texas Chili</a>
50 of 55

Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

Shredded <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/superfood-spotlight-best-sweet-potato-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sweet potato</a> and instant tapioca are unusual but effective thickeners for this slow cooker chicken chili recipe. The added sweetness is tempered by spicy chipotle chilis in adobo sauce and a splash of soy sauce. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-chicken-chili/17471/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Slow Cooker Chicken Chili</a>
51 of 55

Slow Cooker Turkey Chili

Cocoa powder both thickens and flavours the base for this mole-inspired, slow cooker Mexican chili recipe, made with lean, dark meat turkey. Crunch up some tortilla chips for a textural topping and add some pickled jalapenos for some sour and hot notes. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-turkey-chili/19490/" target="_blank">Slow Cooker Turkey Chili</a>
52 of 55

Tofu Lettuce Wraps

If you're stuck in a chili rut, take it out of the bowl. These deliciously crunchy lettuce wraps are packed with chili-spiced tofu, corn and green onions and finished with sliced avocado for some creamy contrast. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tofu-lettuce-wraps/18346/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Tofu Lettuce Wraps</a>
53 of 55

Ohio Turkey Chili

Chocolate is the secret in Valerie's comforting turkey chili. Serve it over cooked spaghetti, or on its own with your favourite fresh bread. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ohio-turkey-chili/22128/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Valerie Bertinelli's Ohio Turkey Chili</a>
54 of 55

Cornbread-Chili Casserole

Chili and cornbread were born to be together, and it won't be easy to resist a second helping of this scrumptious <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/30-must-try-casserole-recipes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">casserole</a>. Instead of making homemade batter, cornbread muffin mix will help you get dinner on the table in no time at all. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cornbread-chili-casserole/22129/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Trisha Yearwood's Cornbread-Chili Casserole</a>
55 of 55

Indian Summer Turkey Chili

If you're looking for a fun dish to feed a crowd, turkey chili is the answer. When it's ready, set up a table with an assortment of toppers and dippers, and allow everyone to customize their own bowl. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/indian-summer-turkey-chili/22130/" target="_blank">Rachael Ray's Indian Summer Turkey Chili</a>
Start Over

Next Gallery
Vegan Comfort Food Trends to Look out for in 2021
More Galleries