Spicy Smoky Chipotle Chili

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
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This Spicy Smoky Chipotle Chili is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and hearty with a kick. It's packed with bold flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul.

Ingredients for Spicy Smoky Chipotle Chili

Olive oil is the base that helps sauté the aromatics, adding a rich flavor. Onion and garlic form the aromatic backbone, infusing the chili with depth. Ground beef provides protein and a hearty texture. Chipotle peppers in adobo introduce a smoky heat that's distinctive and rich. Smoked paprika and cumin lend a warm, earthy flavor. Oregano adds a hint of herbaceousness, while cayenne pepper kicks up the spice level. Green and red bell peppers contribute color and a slight sweetness. Diced tomatoes give the chili a robust base. Black beans and kidney beans add texture and additional protein. Beef broth deepens the flavor, keeping everything moist and rich. Finally, lime juice brightens the dish, balancing the smoky and spicy elements.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra smokiness, add a dash of liquid smoke or more chipotle peppers.
  • Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of cayenne pepper.
  • Let the chili sit for a day in the fridge; it tastes even better as the flavors deepen.

Serving Suggestions

This chili is delightful with a side of warm cornbread or over a bed of fluffy rice. Top it with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with an extra can of beans or use a meat substitute of your choice.
How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze for up to three months.
What if I can't find chipotle peppers?
You can substitute with smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne, but the chipotles add a unique flavor that's worth seeking out.

Spicy Smoky Chipotle Chili Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté them until they turn translucent and fragrant, about five minutes.

Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it's browned all over. This should take about six to eight minutes.

Stir in the chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Mix everything well until the beef is coated with the spices.

Next, add the green and red bell peppers. Let them cook for about five minutes, just until they start to soften.

Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, followed by the black beans, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for about 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the flavors meld together.

Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste. Just before serving, stir in the lime juice to add a fresh zest.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Bold and smoky flavor profile with a satisfying heat.
  • Simple ingredients — mostly pantry staples.
  • One-pot wonder — easy cleanup and prep.
  • Perfect for meal prep or freezing for later.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb ground beef
2 chipotle peppers in adobo, chopped
1 tbsp smoked paprika
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp lime juice

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
3. Add ground beef; cook until browned.
4. Stir in chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
5. Mix in bell peppers; cook for 5 minutes.
6. Pour in diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and beef broth.
7. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice.
9. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.

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