This Chipotle Chili is a warm, spicy treat that features tender beans, ground meat, and smoky chipotle peppers. It’s perfect for chilly days and filling enough to warm your belly!
You’ll love how easy it is to make! Just cook everything in one pot, and soon you’ll have a comforting bowl ready to enjoy. Don’t forget the cornbread on the side—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: While I use ground beef for a rich flavor, ground turkey or chicken is a healthier option. You can also skip the meat altogether and use lentils or mushroom for a vegetarian chili.
Chipotle Peppers: Chipotle adds smokiness and heat. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, use a smaller amount or try smoked paprika instead. You can also use other smoky chili varieties if needed.
Beans: Kidney beans give a nice texture, but feel free to swap them with black beans or pinto beans if that’s what you have on hand. They all work well in chili!
Spices: The spices are key for flavor! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works too, though it’ll lack that smoky depth. You can adjust spices according to your heat preference.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Chili?
Cooking chili is all about building layers of flavor. Here’s how to enhance it:
- Start by sautéing onions until golden; it adds sweetness.
- Don’t rush the browning of the meat; that caramelization brings depth.
- Let the chili simmer without a lid to thicken it and intensify flavors.
- Always add lime juice at the end for freshness and balance.
- Customizing with your favorite toppings makes it special!
Following these tips will help you create a chili that’s delicious and hearty every time!
Chipotle Chili: A Flavorful and Hearty Dish!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from chipotle peppers can)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for a deeper smoky flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
For Toppings:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Crumble cotija or feta cheese
- Fresh jalapeño slices (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this delicious Chipotle Chili takes about 15 minutes plus 30-40 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you’ll be enjoying your meal in about an hour! It’s perfect for meal prep or gathering with friends and family.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes until it’s softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until it’s fragrant—your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
2. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 7-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it before moving on.
3. Mix in the Smoky Flavors:
Now, stir in the chopped chipotle peppers and adobo sauce. Let them cook for 1-2 minutes to fully release their smoky flavor into the dish.
4. Add the Main Ingredients:
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and broth. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients. This is where the magic happens!
5. Season the Chili:
Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly seasoned.
6. Simmer:
Bring the chili to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken to your liking.
7. Final Touches:
Just before serving, stir in the fresh lime juice for a burst of brightness that complements the rich chili. It’s a game-changer!
8. Serve with Love:
Serve the chili hot, topping each bowl with a dollop of sour cream, crumbled cheese, fresh cilantro, and jalapeño slices if you like a little heat. Don’t forget the lime wedges on the side for that extra zing!
Enjoy your comforting and smoky Chipotle Chili! It’s sure to warm your heart and belly!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great if you’re looking for a leaner option. You can also make it vegetarian by using lentils or mushrooms for added texture and protein.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the number of chipotle peppers or use just the adobo sauce for flavor without too much heat. Alternatively, you can add more peppers if you like it spicier!
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes, this chili is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.