5 Easy Chili Recipes for Weeknight Dinners

When the week gets hectic, turning to quick and hearty meals is a comforting choice for many families. Chili, with its rich flavors and simple preparation, is the perfect dish to whip up for those busy weeknight dinners. Here are five easy chili recipes that you can prepare in no time, each offering a delightful twist to the classic dish.

1. Classic Beef Chili

The backbone of any chili lineup is the classic beef chili. Here’s how to make it:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cans of diced tomatoes
• 1 can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, then add garlic, cooking for another minute.
2. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks until browned.
3. Stir in tomatoes, beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.

🥄 Note: For a healthier version, consider using ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative.

2. White Chicken Chili

Switch things up with this creamy alternative:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can of green chilies, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¹⁄₂ cup heavy cream or sour cream

Instructions:

1. In a pot, heat olive oil, sauté onions until soft, add garlic.
2. Add the chicken, broth, beans, chilies, cumin, and oregano. Bring to a boil then simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Stir in cream or sour cream, heat through, and serve.

3. Vegan Lentil Chili

For those avoiding animal products, this hearty lentil chili is both filling and flavorful:

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 2 cans of tomato sauce
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions:

1. Sauté onions in oil, add garlic, cook until fragrant.
2. Add lentils, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, chili powder, and paprika. Simmer for 45 minutes or until lentils are tender.

4. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili

Embrace some sweetness with this innovative chili:

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes with their juice
• 2 cups vegetable stock
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin

Instructions:

1. Heat oil, add onions, cook until softened, then add garlic.
2. Add sweet potatoes, beans, tomatoes, stock, chili powder, and cumin. Simmer until sweet potatoes are tender.

🍠 Note: Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder according to your preference.

5. No-Boil Cincinnati Chili

Experience the unique flavors of Cincinnati with this no-fuss chili:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 lbs ground beef
• 2 cups water
• 1 can tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon allspice
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions:

1. In a pot, cook onion in oil until soft. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
2. Stir in all remaining ingredients, then let it simmer for at least 30 minutes.

These chili recipes not only offer variety but also cater to different dietary preferences, making them ideal for anyone looking to streamline their weeknight dinner preparations. Whether you're in the mood for the traditional flavors of a beef chili or the unique blend of spices in a Cincinnati-style chili, these recipes can elevate your home cooking game without compromising on time. They're all about combining convenience with taste, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with family or friends.

Can I freeze leftover chili?

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Yes, chili freezes very well. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in a microwave.

How can I thicken my chili?

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To thicken chili, you can:

• Simmer longer to reduce the liquid.
• Add a mixture of cornstarch and water, stirring until combined.
• Mash some of the beans or vegetables to create a natural thickener.

Are there any substitutes for common chili ingredients?

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Yes:

• Tomatoes can be replaced with tomato paste mixed with water.
• Use quinoa instead of beans for a different texture.
• For beef, try ground turkey, chicken, or meat substitutes.