Who doesn’t love a warm, hearty bowl of chili? I remember the first time I tried Chili’s famous chili—rich, beefy, and packed with just the right amount of spice.

It instantly became a favorite, and I knew I had to recreate it in my own kitchen. Today, I’m sharing my version of Chili’s Chili Recipe, perfect for cozy family dinners or a game-day treat.

Let’s dive in and bring this restaurant favorite to your home!

How To Make Chili’s Chili Recipe: Easy Step-By-Step Guide

This homemade Chili’s chili recipe captures the bold, savory flavors of Chili’s restaurant-style chili with a blend of spices, tender ground beef, and a hearty texture.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour

Cuisine: American
Course: Main Dish
Difficulty Level: Easy

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: ~350 per serving

Ingredients

Spice Blend:

2 tbsp chili powder

1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp ground black pepper
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Main Ingredients:

1 lb ground chuck (80/20 beef)
2 tbsp cooking oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup water
2 tbsp masa harina (corn flour, for thickening)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare The Spice Blend

In a small bowl, mix the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This blend gives the chili its signature bold flavor.

Step 2: Cook The Beef

Heat the cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the ground chuck, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness.

Step 3: Sauté The Onions

Push the beef to one side of the pot and add the chopped onions to the empty space.
Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent, then mix them into the beef.

Step 4: Add The Liquid Ingredients

Stir in the tomato sauce and water, ensuring everything is well combined.

Step 5: Spice It Up

Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over the mixture and stir thoroughly.
Let the chili simmer on low heat for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Thicken With Masa Harina

In a small bowl, mix masa harina with 2 tablespoons of water to form a paste.

Stir the paste into the chili and cook for an additional 5–10 minutes until the chili thickens to your liking.

Tips And Tricks

For A Smoky Kick: Add a pinch of smoked paprika.
Pairing Suggestions: Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over a bed of rice.

Adjusting Spice Levels: Reduce cayenne for a milder chili or add diced jalapeños for more heat.
Storing Leftovers: Keep in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of water to loosen.

Serving Suggestions

Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions.

Pair with a cold glass of iced tea or a light beer for a complete meal.
Use leftovers as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos.

What Kind Of Chili Do Chilis Use?

Chili’s uses a ground chuck base combined with a hearty tomato and spice mix to create their signature thick and savory chili.

What Is The Secret Ingredient In A Good Chili?

The secret is masa harina! It thickens the chili and adds a subtle corn flavor, giving it that restaurant-quality texture.

Why Is Chili’s Called Chili?

Chili’s restaurant originally built its menu around their signature chili and Tex-Mex dishes. The name reflects their bold, spicy, and hearty flavors.

What Is The Best Way To Make Chili?

The key to the best chili is slow cooking, allowing the spices to meld and the beef to tenderize. Always simmer your chili low and slow for the best flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead Of Beef?

Yes! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Is This Chili Gluten-Free?

It can be made gluten-free by substituting masa harina with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch.

Can I Make This Chili In A Slow Cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.

How Do I Make It Vegetarian?

Swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein like crumbled tofu, lentils, or textured vegetable protein.

Let’s Get Cooking!

There you have it—my take on Chili’s Chili Recipe! I hope this recipe becomes a family favorite in your home, just like it is in mine.

If you try it, let me know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with fellow chili lovers. Happy cooking!

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Naznin Aktar

Author & Recipe Developer at Naznin's Kitchen

Hello! I'm Naznin Aktar, the food enthusiast and recipe developer at Naznin's Kitchen. Want to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary dishes? Explore Naznin's Kitchen for a collection of recipes that are sure to inspire your inner chef and delight your loved ones.