When game day rolls around, there’s one thing everyone agrees on: chili is a must. Whether you’re in it for the football or just here for the food (no judgment), these chili recipes will make you the MVP of the snack table. Forget the same old chips and dip routine—this lineup is full of big flavors that are perfect for fueling those high-fiving, remote-throwing moments. From spicy and bold to hearty and comforting, there’s a chili for every fan.
Brisket Chili
Brisket chili is a must-try dish that transforms leftover beef brisket into a cozy meal. Packed with beans, peppers, and corn, its thick tomato base makes it a comforting choice for chilly evenings.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Chili
Kabocha Squash Chili
Kabocha squash chili, slow-cooked for deep flavors, is a vegetarian delight. It features the unique, nutty sweetness of Japanese kabocha squash, paired with a mix of seasonal vegetables, ideal for colder months.
Get the Recipe: Kabocha Squash Chili
Chocolate Lamb Chili
Chocolate lamb chili stands out with its unique blend of chopped lamb, beans, and smoky spices. Its flavor profile, reminiscent of Mexican mole sauce, sets this dish apart as a truly one-of-a-kind chili.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Lamb Chili
Turkey Chili Pie
Turkey chili pie ingeniously combines lean turkey chili with a cornbread topping. Baked together in a skillet, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying, making it a perfect family meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chili Pie
Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili
Chicken apple cheddar chili is a creative twist on traditional chili. With white beans, ample cheddar, and a creamy base, this dish is ideal for those seeking something different yet comforting for fall.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Apple Cheddar Chili
Spicy Hummus Turkey Chili
For a one-pot winter wonder, try spicy hummus turkey chili. Its creamy texture and comforting warmth make it a go-to choice for chilly days.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Hummus Turkey Chili
Short Rib Chili
This spicy porter short rib chili offers a mouthwatering blend of flavors, perfect for cold weather comfort. It’s not only delicious fresh but also excellent as a leftover or frozen meal for later enjoyment.
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Chili with Bacon
This homemade chili, featuring bacon and a perfect spice blend, is a crowd-pleaser. Topped with cheese, sour cream, avocado, and extra bacon, it’s a classic dish that never fails to satisfy.
Get the Recipe: Chili with Bacon
Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
This chicken chili recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional red beef chili. Slow-cooked for maximum flavor, it’s a perfect meal for any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
Quinoa Sweet Potato Chili
Quinoa sweet potato chili is a flavorful and filling meatless option. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner, even on the busiest of days.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Sweet Potato Chili
Vegetarian Bean Chili
This 3 bean chili recipe is a vegetarian feast that doesn’t skimp on heartiness or flavor. It’s so satisfying, you won’t miss the meat at all.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Bean Chili
Tempeh Chili
Tempeh chili is the ultimate meatless comfort food. Packed with fiber and protein, it’s a rich, hearty choice for anyone seeking a vegan and gluten-free option.
Get the Recipe: Tempeh Chili
Wagyu Beef Chili
Wagyu beef chili, combining American wagyu beef and ground pork, is a luxurious take on the classic. Its homemade chili powder and blend of seasonings make it an irresistible choice for a cozy night or to impress guests.
Get the Recipe: Wagyu Beef Chili
White Chili with Ground Chicken
White chicken chili, made with ground chicken and sour cream, is a delightful dish ready in just 40 minutes. This easy, hearty soup is perfect for busy weeknight dinners, offering satisfaction for hours.
Get the Recipe: White Chili with Ground Chicken
One Pot Game Day Chili
This easy one-pot chili is ideal for fall, winter, and game days. Perfect for tailgating or enjoying at home, it can be made vegan or with meat, and is even better when prepared a day ahead.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Game Day Chili
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
