This Chipotle Chili is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with rich, smoky flavors from chipotle peppers, tender beans, and hearty meat or veggies. Perfect for cozy nights!
Honestly, nothing beats a big bowl of chili on a chilly evening! I love topping it with cheese and sour cream. Don’t forget the cornbread—it’s basically a match made in heaven! 🥘
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great base for sautéing. If you don’t have it, canola or vegetable oil works well too.
Ground Beef: I suggest using lean ground beef for less grease. Ground turkey or even plant-based meat is a fantastic option for a lighter or vegetarian chili!
Chipotle Peppers: These bring a nice smoky heat! Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. If you can’t find chipotle in adobo, smoked paprika is a good substitute for some smokiness.
Beans: Kidney and black beans complement the chili well. You can use any beans you have on hand, like pinto or chickpeas. Just rinse them well!
Spices: Chili powder is key here! You could also add a pinch of cayenne for more heat or omit the smoked paprika if you don’t have it.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Simmer and Flavor?
Simmering is important to let all the flavors blend together. Here’s how you can do it right:
- After adding the broth, use high heat to bring the chili to a simmer.
- Once it’s simmering, lower the heat to low for a gentle cook. Cover the pot, leaving a small crack to let steam escape.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even-thickness!
Allow it to simmer for 30-40 minutes; this gives your chili a rich flavor
Don’t forget to taste it towards the end! Adding a bit more salt or spices can really enhance those flavors. Enjoy making this comforting dish! 🍅🌶️
Chipotle Chili Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle pepper can)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for deeper flavor)
Garnishes:
- Diced avocado
- Sliced fresh jalapeño
- Crumpled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty Chipotle Chili takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes until you can smell the wonderful aroma!
2. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Use a spoon to break it apart, cooking until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it out carefully.
3. Toast the Spices:
Once the meat is cooked, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let the spices cook for 1 minute to release their flavors, stirring frequently.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans (if using), minced chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce. If you’re using tomato paste for more depth, add it in as well. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Simmer and Thicken:
Pour in the broth and bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the chili to thicken and for all the flavors to meld beautifully!
6. Final Touches:
After simmering, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if needed—add more salt or chipotle if you like it spicier!
7. Serve:
Serve your delicious chili hot, topped with diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, crumbled cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime if you like. Pair it with cornbread or tortilla chips for a delightful meal!
Enjoy your smoky, spicy Chipotle Chili! It’s perfect for any get-together or cozy night in.
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried?
Absolutely! Canned beans are a great time-saver. Just make sure to rinse and drain them before adding to the chili to reduce sodium content and improve texture.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with extra beans or lentils. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and texture!
How to Store Leftover Chili?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Chili also freezes well—just cool it completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months!
What Should I Serve with Chipotle Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice. You can also serve it with a side salad for a complete meal!
