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Simple, Classic Chili

This Simple Classic Chili is a rich, hearty one-pot meal packed with ground meat, beans, tomatoes, and warm spices. It’s thick, comforting, and full of bold flavor, making it a go-to recipe for cozy dinners, game days, or easy meal prep.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 to 1 1/2 pounds ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 28-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
  • 1 15.5-ounce can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 15.5-ounce can pinto beans, drained and rinsed

Optional Toppings:

  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Chopped onions
  • Fresh cilantro

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add the ground meat and cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
  • Add the red and green bell peppers and cook for another 5–8 minutes until they begin to soften.
  • Make a small space in the center of the pot and add the garlic. Let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir it into the vegetables.
  • Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, cayenne, and salt. Stir well and cook for another 30 seconds to toast the spices.
  • Return the cooked meat to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Add the diced tomatoes and beans, then stir to combine.
  • Simmer for another 10 minutes until everything is heated through and the chili reaches your desired thickness.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Use lean ground meat to avoid excess grease.
Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
Simmer longer for a thicker, richer chili.
Add a splash of lime juice at the end for brightness if desired.
Make it ahead of time for even better flavor the next day.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Serve with cornbread or rice for a more filling meal.