As a mom of three, I’m always on the hunt for must-try recipes for dinner that are both delicious and simple to throw together. That’s why crockpot chili has become my go-to for busy weeknights and even lazy Sundays. Whether it’s the best homemade chili recipe for the crock pot, a classic chili recipe, or just something hearty to keep everyone full and happy, there’s nothing quite like it. With a few simple chili ingredients and a little prep, you can have the best easy crockpot chili bubbling away while you tackle your day.
If you’ve been wondering how to make the best chili, this is where to start. These slow cooker chili recipes are packed with flavor and perfect for those cozy pot dinners. Whether you’re craving the best slow cooker chili, an easy chili recipe for the crockpot, or even trying to find your next good chili recipe, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into these homemade chili crockpot ideas—you’ll find these are the crock pot chili recipes easy enough to make any day a win for dinner!
1. Crockpot Classic Beef Chili
You can’t go wrong with a classic beef chili—it’s cozy, hearty, and just perfect for a lazy day. I’ve made this for so many family game nights, and it never fails to be a hit. The best part? You throw everything in the crockpot, and the magic happens while you’re off doing life stuff. It’s like having a kitchen helper!
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the beef mixture to your crockpot.
- Add the diced tomatoes, beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
- Set your crockpot to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours.
- Give it a taste test, adjust the seasoning, and serve with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream.
2. Crockpot White Chicken Chili
If you’ve never had white chicken chili before, you’re in for a treat! This one is creamy, flavorful, and just the right amount of spicy. I love serving this when the weather gets chilly—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
Servings: 5-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts, beans, green chilies, onion, and spices into the crockpot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and give it a stir.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
- Stir in the cream cheese and lime juice until creamy. Serve with tortilla chips or a dollop of sour cream.
3. Crockpot Turkey and Black Bean Chili
Turkey chili is a lighter twist on the classic version, but it’s still so comforting and satisfying. This recipe became a favorite when I was looking for ways to use up leftover turkey. Black beans give it that extra heartiness too!
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the ground turkey in a skillet with the onion and garlic. Drain any fat.
- Add the turkey mixture to your crockpot.
- Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and spices.
- Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6-8 hours.
- Serve with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a bright finish.
4. Crockpot Vegetarian Three-Bean Chili
This one’s a family favorite, especially for meatless Mondays. Even the kids, who usually ask, “Where’s the meat?” love it. It’s packed with beans, veggies, and spices that make it super hearty and filling. You won’t even miss the meat!
Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add all the ingredients to your crockpot and stir well.
- Set the crockpot to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally if you can.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
- Top with shredded cheese, avocado slices, or a dollop of yogurt if you like.
5. Crockpot Spicy Ground Lamb Chili
Lamb adds a rich, unique flavor to chili, and if you like a bit of spice, this recipe’s for you. I first made this on a whim, and now it’s requested at least once a month. The slow cooking really makes the flavors pop!
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the ground lamb with the onion and garlic in a skillet. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the lamb mixture to the crockpot.
- Add the tomatoes, chickpeas, green chilies, broth, and spices. Stir everything together.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Serve with naan bread or rice for a comforting meal.
6. Crockpot Sweet Potato and Quinoa Chili
This chili is healthy, hearty, and super satisfying. The sweetness of the potatoes balances perfectly with the spices. Plus, it’s packed with protein thanks to the quinoa! Great for meal prep or a cozy dinner.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add all the ingredients to the crockpot and stir well.
- Set to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the quinoa is cooked.
- Stir well before serving, and garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime.
7. Crockpot Chicken and Lentil Chili
This one’s a little different but SO good. Lentils give it a hearty, almost creamy texture that makes it feel extra comforting. I love that it’s high in protein and full of wholesome ingredients.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add the chicken breasts, lentils, tomatoes, beans, onion, garlic, and spices to your crockpot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything together.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the lentils are tender.
- Shred the chicken with two forks, mix it back into the chili, and serve hot.
8. Crockpot Beef and Kidney Bean Chili
This one is my go-to when I want a classic chili with a little kick. Kidney beans and ground beef make it filling and full of flavor. It’s perfect for a chilly evening or when you’re hosting friends over for dinner.
Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic in a skillet. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the beef mixture to the crockpot.
- Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, broth, and spices. Stir everything together.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
9. Crockpot Vegan Butternut Squash Chili
I love sneaking extra veggies into my meals, and this butternut squash chili does just that. It’s naturally sweet and spicy, plus totally vegan. This is one of those recipes where no one even realizes how healthy it is because it’s so tasty!
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add all the ingredients to the crockpot and stir well.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the butternut squash is tender.
- Stir before serving, and top with fresh cilantro or avocado slices.
10. Crockpot Ground Turkey and Sweet Corn Chili
This is a lighter chili with a little sweetness from the corn. It’s so easy to throw together, and it’s great for weeknight dinners. I like to serve it with tortilla chips for a fun, crunchy topping.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5-6 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen or canned sweet corn
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the ground turkey with the onion in a skillet. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the turkey mixture to the crockpot.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, broth, and spices.
- Cook on low for 5-6 hours, or until all the flavors meld together.
- Serve with tortilla chips or shredded cheese.
11. Crockpot Chicken and Black Bean Chili
This chicken and black bean chili is so simple but full of flavor. It’s one of those dump-and-go recipes that make dinner a breeze. You’ll love how the chicken turns out tender and juicy every time.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, broth, onion, and spices. Stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Shred the chicken with two forks, stir, and serve with your favorite toppings.
12. Crockpot Cauliflower and Chickpea Chili
This veggie chili is so hearty, you won’t believe there’s no meat in it. Cauliflower and chickpeas make it filling, and the spices give it so much flavor. It’s perfect for a healthy yet satisfying meal.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower, chopped into small florets
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add the cauliflower, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, broth, and spices to the crockpot.
- Stir everything together.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the cauliflower is tender.
- Serve with a dollop of plain yogurt or fresh herbs.
13. Crockpot Beef and Pinto Bean Chili
Pinto beans don’t get enough love, in my opinion! This chili is a simple, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. It’s packed with protein and flavor, and the crockpot does all the hard work while you go about your day.
Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the beef mixture to the crockpot.
- Add the pinto beans, diced tomatoes, broth, and spices. Stir everything together.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Serve with cornbread or crackers on the side for a classic touch.
14. Crockpot Spicy Chicken and White Bean Chili
This chili has a little bit of heat and a whole lot of flavor. The white beans make it creamy, and the chicken cooks so tender, it practically falls apart. It’s my go-to when I want something light but still filling.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) green chilies
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Add the white beans, green chilies, broth, onion, garlic, and spices. Stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Shred the chicken with two forks, stir, and serve with tortilla chips or fresh cilantro on top.
15. Crockpot Mushroom and Lentil Chili
If you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian option, this mushroom and lentil chili is perfect. The mushrooms add a “meaty” texture, and the lentils make it super satisfying. Even my kids, who aren’t big mushroom fans, love this one!
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mushrooms, chopped
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add the mushrooms, lentils, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, onion, garlic, broth, and spices to the crockpot.
- Stir everything together.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the lentils are soft and the flavors meld together.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
As a mom of three, life can get pretty hectic, but having a handful of must-try recipes for dinner like these crockpot chili recipes makes it so much easier to keep everyone fed and happy. From the best homemade chili recipe crock pot to the simplest crockpot easy chili, these dishes are proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is in using the right chili ingredients and letting the slow cooker do all the hard work while you take care of everything else on your plate.
Whether you’re whipping up a classic chili recipe for a family dinner, experimenting with the best slow cooker chili, or trying a new easy chili recipe crockpot for the next potluck, these meals are guaranteed to satisfy. Knowing how to make the best chili means having the perfect balance of flavor, simplicity, and heartiness, and these recipes deliver every time.
So, the next time you’re searching for a good chili recipe or thinking about cozy pot dinners, grab your slow cooker and try one of these crock pot chili recipes easy enough for any day. Trust me, these homemade crockpot chili ideas will become a staple in your meal rotation and might just earn you the title of the best chili recipe maker in your home!
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