Cook Like a Pro: 12 Best Healthy Chili Recipes to Try This Week

Written by Veronica E. Rogers in Dinner

If you’re looking to elevate your cooking game, these 12 healthy chili recipes offer a fantastic blend of flavors and nutrition. From the hearty Classic Turkey Chili to the unique Thai-Inspired Chili with Coconut Milk, each recipe showcases wholesome ingredients that promise comfort and satisfaction. Whether you prefer meat, vegetarian, or even a twist on tradition, there’s something here for everyone. Get ready to explore mouthwatering options that might just become your new favorites.

Classic Turkey Chili

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro

How to Make:

  1. In a large pot, brown the ground turkey over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika, cooking for another minute to release those amazing flavors.
  4. Pour in the diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and chicken broth. Mix it all together.
  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, feel free to add some hot sauce!
  7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings and enjoy the warmth of this delightful dish.

Dive into a bowl of comfort with this Classic Turkey Chili that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds!

Vegetarian Black Bean Chili

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, cheese, sour cream

How to Make:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika; cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the diced tomatoes, black beans, and vegetable broth.
  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
  7. Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings like avocado or cheese for an extra treat!

Enjoy this bowl of goodness that’s not only healthy but also packed with flavor!

Quinoa and Sweet Potato Chili

Warm up with this hearty and nutritious Quinoa and Sweet Potato Chili that’s packed with flavor!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, lime wedges

How to Make:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.
  2. Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the rinsed quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes and quinoa are tender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve hot, and top with avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges if desired.

Dig into this delicious Quinoa and Sweet Potato Chili, and let the cozy flavors warm your soul!

Spicy Chicken Chili

Get ready to warm your soul with this zesty Spicy Chicken Chili that packs a flavorful punch!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, jalapeños

How to Make:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until they’re soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the ground chicken to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
  5. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
  6. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, then add the black beans.
  7. Stir everything together and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more cayenne for extra heat if you dare!
  9. Serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes.

This Spicy Chicken Chili is sure to be a hit—enjoy each hearty bite!

Lentil and Vegetable Chili

Warm up your taste buds with this hearty Lentil and Vegetable Chili, packed with flavor and nutrients!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you like)
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent.
  3. Toss in the bell pepper, carrots, and celery; cook for about 5 minutes until they soften.
  4. Stir in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

Dig into this deliciously wholesome chili and enjoy a bowl of cozy goodness!

Smoky Chipotle Chili

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable or beef broth
  • 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro

How to Make:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. Pour in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and vegetable or beef broth. Stir everything together.
  5. Add the chopped chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  6. Bring the chili to a simmer and let it cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If it gets too thick, feel free to add a little extra broth.
  7. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes.

This Smoky Chipotle Chili will warm your soul and tickle your taste buds—enjoy every spicy spoonful!

White Bean and Chicken Chili

Warm up with a hearty bowl of White Bean and Chicken Chili that’s loaded with flavor and goodness!

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, avocado, lime wedges

How to Make:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
  4. Stir in the white beans, chicken broth, green chilies, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
  6. Add the corn and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Get ready to plunge into this deliciously creamy chili that warms the soul!

Beef and Bean Chili

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions

How to Make:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re soft and fragrant.
  2. Stir in the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well to coat the meat and onions.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and both types of beans, stirring everything together.
  5. Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it cook for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes!

Dig into this beef and bean chili for a satisfying meal that warms the soul!

Mediterranean Chickpea Chili

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Feta cheese, for serving (optional)

How to Make:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
  3. Stir in the garlic and red bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
  4. Toss in the zucchini, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper; mix well.
  5. Add the chickpeas and diced tomatoes, followed by the vegetable broth. Stir everything together.
  6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of feta cheese if desired.

Enjoy this Mediterranean twist on chili—it’s hearty, healthy, and bursting with flavor!

Pumpkin and Turkey Chili

Get ready for a cozy and hearty meal with this Pumpkin and Turkey Chili that’s perfect for chilly nights!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

How to Make:

  1. In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent.
  3. Toss in the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
  4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute to enhance the flavors.
  5. Add the pumpkin puree, black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth; stir everything together.
  6. Bring the chili to a simmer, reduce the heat, and let it cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed, then serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Dig into this deliciously unique chili that warms both the heart and the belly!

Slow Cooker Chili With Corn

Get ready to warm up with this hearty and wholesome Slow Cooker Chili With Corn that’s perfect for any day!

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground turkey or beef
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro

How to Make:

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground turkey or beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Transfer the cooked meat to your slow cooker.
  3. Add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and broth to the slow cooker.
  4. Stir everything together until well combined.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  6. Once done, give it a good stir, and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve hot, topped with your choice of cheese, sour cream, or cilantro.

Enjoy a bowl of this delicious chili that will surely make your taste buds dance!

Thai-Inspired Chili With Coconut Milk

Get ready for a flavor explosion with this creamy, aromatic Thai-Inspired Chili that’s sure to warm your soul!

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving

How to Make:

  1. In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Toss in the red bell pepper and cook for about 3 minutes until it softens.
  5. Pour in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans, mixing well.
  6. Stir in the coconut milk and red curry paste, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  7. Add the soy sauce and lime juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s thickened to your liking.
  9. Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side.

Dig into this delightful bowl of Thai-Inspired Chili – it’s a creamy twist on a classic that you won’t want to miss!

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