Ultimate Smoky Chipotle Chili: An Easy, Versatile Recipe for Stovetop, Slow Cooker, & Instant Pot

Chipotle Chili is a smoky, robust, and incredibly satisfying meal that adapts beautifully to your cooking style. Whether you prefer the classic stovetop simmer, the hands-off convenience of a crockpot, or the speed of an Instant Pot, this spicy, flavorful dinner is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to load it up with all your favorite chili toppings!

There’s something inherently comforting about a hearty bowl of chili. For me, it’s the ultimate comfort food, a warm embrace on a chilly day. The beauty of chili lies in its incredible versatility; you can endlessly vary the toppings, explore countless recipe options, and it’s almost always a one-pot meal that requires minimal fuss and effort. It’s the kind of dish that truly satisfies, warming you from the inside out.

Here in Denver, the weather loves to keep us on our toes, swinging wildly from warm sunshine to unexpected snowstorms. This unpredictable climate makes it the perfect excuse to whip up one more deeply satisfying and comforting soup before fully embracing the vibrant flavors of spring. And what better way to add depth and warmth than with the smoky kick of chipotles?

My pantry always has a can or two of chipotles in adobo sauce, and they are truly a secret weapon in the kitchen. These smoked, dried jalapeños packed in a tangy, slightly sweet, and spicy adobo sauce are an effortless way to infuse incredible flavor into everything from soups and stews to marinades and sauces. Their distinctive smoky and spicy profile adds an unparalleled depth that transforms ordinary dishes into something truly special.

This chipotle chili combines tender beef, a medley of beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a carefully selected blend of spices, all enhanced by the rich, smoky heat of chipotles. The result is a savory, spicy, and utterly addictive chili that you’ll crave again and again. If you’re a chili fanatic like I am, prepare to add this recipe to your regular rotation!

Short on time but still want amazing flavor? Quickly prepare a batch of homemade chili seasoning to keep on hand for speedy weeknight meals!

Key Ingredients for Smoky Chipotle Chili

Crafting a truly memorable chili starts with understanding the role each ingredient plays. Here’s a closer look at what makes this chipotle chili so delicious:

• Onion: I typically reach for a **white onion** for its sharp, clean flavor that mellows beautifully as it cooks, forming a crucial aromatic base. However, if you have a yellow onion on hand, it will work just as well, providing a slightly sweeter foundation.
• Bell Pepper: The addition of **bell pepper** contributes a subtle sweetness and vibrant freshness that balances the chili’s richness. While I prefer red bell pepper for its sweeter profile and appealing color, yellow or orange varieties are fantastic alternatives. Green bell pepper works too, offering a slightly more pungent flavor.
• Ground Beef: For a hearty and satisfying chili, **lean ground beef** (80-90% lean) is ideal. It provides robust flavor without excessive grease, ensuring your chili isn’t too oily. Browning the beef properly is key to developing a deep, savory base.
• Beans: A combination of **chili beans** (often pre-seasoned) and **kidney beans** provides a fantastic textural contrast and adds body to the chili. Chili beans typically offer a softer texture, while kidney beans retain a firmer bite. You could also experiment with black beans or pinto beans for different flavors and textures.
• Tomatoes: This is where a secret weapon comes in! I highly recommend using **fire-roasted diced tomatoes**. The roasting process imparts a wonderfully smoky depth and a slightly sweeter, more robust flavor compared to regular diced tomatoes. This subtle char perfectly complements the chipotles, elevating the overall taste profile. If you can’t find them, regular diced tomatoes will suffice, but fire-roasted truly make a difference.
• Chipotles in Adobo: These are the stars of the show! We use both the **chipotle peppers** themselves (chopped) and a generous spoonful of the **adobo sauce** from the can. The peppers provide a direct, smoky heat, while the adobo sauce disperses that unique flavor throughout the entire pot, ensuring every spoonful is infused with that irresistible smoky and spicy kick.
• Tomato Paste: A couple of tablespoons of **tomato paste** are crucial for concentrating the tomato flavor and adding a rich, umami depth to the chili, helping to thicken it slightly.
• Spices: A thoughtful blend of spices creates the signature chili flavor. We use:
  • **Salt & Pepper:** Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
  • **Cocoa Powder:** Don’t skip this! A small amount of unsweetened **cocoa powder** adds an incredible depth and richness, a hint of dark bitterness, and a beautiful dark color, often found in authentic Mexican moles. It’s a game-changer for chili.
  • **Ground Cumin:** Provides warm, earthy notes that are quintessential to chili.
  • **Chili Powder:** The classic chili spice blend, offering a foundational savory heat.
  • **Paprika:** Adds a sweet, smoky, and slightly peppery flavor, contributing to the chili’s overall warmth and color.
  • **Garlic Powder & Dried Oregano:** These aromatics round out the spice profile, adding savory herbal undertones.

Essential Equipment for Chili Mastery

One of the many charms of this chipotle chili recipe is its adaptability to various cooking methods. You can achieve fantastic results whether you prefer to cook on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or with the speed of an Instant Pot!

• For the Stovetop: A sturdy **Dutch oven** is your best friend. Its heavy bottom and excellent heat retention ensure even cooking and a beautiful simmer, allowing flavors to meld perfectly.
• For the Slow Cooker: You’ll need a reliable **crockpot** or slow cooker. While the initial browning of meat and sautéing of vegetables is done on the stovetop in a separate skillet, the slow cooker takes over for a convenient, hands-off cooking experience.
• For the Instant Pot: An **Instant Pot Duo** or **Instant Pot Pro** is highly recommended. These multi-cookers offer a sauté function (eliminating the need for a separate pan) and pressure cooking, which significantly reduces cooking time while achieving tender, flavorful results. I’ve personally owned mine for years, and it’s consistently the most reliable and versatile appliance in my kitchen!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll also need fundamental kitchen tools like a sharp **chef’s knife** and a durable **cutting board** for efficient vegetable prep. A good **wooden spoon or spatula** is also indispensable for stirring and scraping the bottom of your pot.

How to Make Chipotle Chili: Step-by-Step

Regardless of your chosen cooking method, the initial steps for building flavor are the same. Let’s walk through the process:

Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating a touch of olive oil in your chosen pot (or skillet for the slow cooker method). Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and become fragrant, which typically takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This crucial step creates a flavorful foundation for your chili.

Brown the Beef for Flavor

Once your vegetables are nicely softened, add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with your spoon and cook until it is thoroughly browned, usually taking about 4 to 5 minutes. Proper browning adds a rich, savory depth to the chili. If using ground beef with higher fat content, you might want to drain any excess grease before proceeding.

Simmer to Perfection: Your Chosen Method

After the initial sautéing and browning, the cooking process diverges based on your preferred appliance:

• Instant Pot: If you started on the Sauté setting, turn off the Instant Pot. Add all the remaining ingredients to the pot (beans, tomatoes, chipotles, tomato paste, adobo sauce, and spices). Stir everything together to combine. Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on High pressure for 20 minutes. Once cooking is complete, perform a manual (quick) release of pressure. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
• Stovetop: After sautéing the vegetables and browning the beef in your Dutch oven, add the rest of the ingredients to the pot. Stir well to incorporate everything. Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will develop and meld. Serve warm.
• Slow Cooker: Once you’ve sautéed the vegetables and browned the beef in a skillet on your stove, transfer these ingredients to your slow cooker insert. Add all the remaining chili ingredients (beans, tomatoes, chipotles, tomato paste, adobo sauce, and spices) to the slow cooker and stir to combine thoroughly. Cover and cook on High for 4 hours (or Low for 8 hours) until the flavors are rich and the chili is heated through. Serve it piping hot.

Expert Tips for the Best Chipotle Chili

To ensure your chipotle chili turns out exceptionally delicious every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Embrace Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: I can’t stress this enough – **fire-roasted tomatoes** truly elevate this chili. Their inherent smokiness and deeper flavor profile perfectly harmonize with the chipotles, adding another layer of complexity. If you can’t find them, regular diced tomatoes are an acceptable substitute, but the fire-roasted variety will make your chili sing.
• Let it Simmer (Stovetop Method): If you’re cooking on the stovetop, patience is a virtue! Allowing the chili to **simmer for the full 45 minutes** (or even longer, if you have the time) is highly recommended. The flavors will deepen, meld, and become incredibly rich. Heck, letting it simmer for a couple of hours on low heat will only improve it further, making it taste even more authentic and complex.
• Don’t Skip the Cocoa Powder: A common secret ingredient in many authentic chili recipes, a small amount of **unsweetened cocoa powder** might seem unusual, but it’s a game-changer. It doesn’t make the chili taste like chocolate; instead, it adds a profound depth, richness, and a subtle hint of bitterness that balances the spices and acidity, enhancing the savory notes significantly.
• Adjust the Spice Level: The amount of chipotles in adobo can be adjusted to your personal preference. For a milder chili, use fewer peppers and less adobo sauce. For more heat, add an extra chopped chipotle or a dash of cayenne pepper. Remember, you can always add more heat at the end, but it’s harder to take it away.
• Meal Prep for the Win: Chili is an exceptional dish for meal prepping! It reheats beautifully and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Consider doubling this recipe and storing the extras. This chili will stay perfectly good in the freezer for 4 to 6 months.
  • Pro Tip: Store portions in individual, freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. This makes for quick, grab-and-go lunches or effortless weeknight dinners when you’re short on time. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
• Quality Ingredients Matter: While chili is forgiving, using fresh, good-quality ingredients will always yield the best results. Freshly diced onions and bell peppers, good quality lean ground beef, and flavorful canned beans will make a noticeable difference in the final taste.

Craving more chili adventures? Explore these other tasty chili recipes: Instant Pot Carne Asada Chili | Slow Cooker Queso Chili | Creamy White Chicken Chili | The Best Taco Chili

Can I Use Ground Turkey or Other Meats Instead of Beef?

Absolutely! If you’re looking to lighten up this chili, prefer poultry, or simply don’t eat beef, **ground turkey or ground chicken** are excellent substitutes. Brown them in the same way you would the ground beef, ensuring they are fully cooked through, then proceed with the recipe as listed. Since leaner meats can sometimes be less flavorful, you might consider adding a bit more olive oil during browning or increasing some of the savory spices slightly to compensate for the difference in fat content and richness.

Can I Make This Chipotle Chili Ahead of Time or Freeze It?

Yes, chili is one of those wonderful dishes that often tastes even better the next day! You can certainly make this chipotle chili up to 2 or 3 days ahead of when you plan to serve it. Once it’s cooked, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until thoroughly warm.

For longer storage, this chili freezes beautifully. After cooking, let it cool entirely. Then, divide it into individual servings and store in freezer-safe bags (laying them flat to freeze) or sturdy airtight containers. To enjoy later, simply defrost your desired portion in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until steaming hot. It’s a perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you need a quick, comforting meal!

Searching for more comforting soup inspiration? Be sure to check out my comprehensive soup recipes page for a wide array of options.

What to Serve With Your Smoky Chipotle Chili

A fantastic chili is only complete with an array of delicious toppings and sides! For this smoky chipotle chili, gather all your favorite additions to customize each bowl:

• Classic Toppings: Don’t hold back! Essential toppings include a generous dollop of **sour cream** (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option), a mound of your favorite **shredded cheese** (sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack are excellent), a sprinkle of fresh **chopped cilantro**, and a handful of crispy **Fritos or tortilla chips** for crunch.
• For Extra Kick: Add some thinly **sliced jalapeño** (fresh for heat, pickled for tang), a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Creamy Additions: Diced **avocado** or a spoonful of guacamole can add a lovely creamy texture and richness that contrasts beautifully with the chili’s spice.
• Hearty Sides: Beyond toppings, consider serving your chili with:
  • Fluffy **cornbread** or cornbread muffins, perfect for soaking up every last drop.
  • A simple side of steamed **white or brown rice** for an even more filling meal.
  • A light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
• The Perfect Drink Pairing: To complement the smoky and savory notes of this chili, a simple yet sophisticated chili lime margarita is an ideal pairing. Its citrusy brightness and subtle kick perfectly match the meal.
• A Sweet Ending: Looking for a festive dessert to close out your meal? These delightful churro cheesecake taquitos offer a sweet and crispy take on a traditionally savory treat. The cinnamon sugar coating provides the tastiest finishing touch after a spicy chili.

This chipotle chili isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s one of those cozy chili recipes that delivers rich flavor, comforting warmth, and endless customization options. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!

Chipotle Chili

Smoky and spicy, this chili is a staple recipe that you’ll make over and over again!

Prep Time: 10 minutes mins

Cook Time: 30 minutes mins

Total Time: 40 minutes mins

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Equipment

• Wusthof Knife Set
• Utility Cutting Board
• Wooden Spoon & Scraper
• Instant Pot Ultra 6 Qt
• Instant Pot DUO
• Dutch Oven

Ingredients

• 1/2 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 white onion diced
• 1 red bell pepper diced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 16 oz can chili beans
• 1 16 oz can kidney beans
• 1 16 oz can fire roasted tomatoes
• 3 chipotles in adobo chopped
• 2 Tbsp tomato paste
• 1 Tbsp adobo sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano

Toppings

• Sour cream
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Cilantro

Instructions

• Instant Pot – Add oil to insert and set on Saute setting. Once hot, add onion and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
• Add beef and cook until browned, about 4 to 5 minutes. Turn off Instant Pot.
• Add remaining ingredients, stirring to combine. Cook on High pressure for 20 minutes. Manually release pressure. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
• Stovetop – Add oil to a Dutch oven and heat over medium-high heat. Once hot, add onion and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
• Add beef and cook until browned, about 4 to 5 minutes.
• Add remaining ingredients, stirring to combine. Bring the chili to a simmer and cook for about 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
• Slow Cooker – Add oil to a medium skillet and place over medium-high heat. Once hot, add onion and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
• Add beef and cook until browned, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and add to slow cooker insert.
• Add remaining ingredients, stirring to combine. Cook on High for 4 hours. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Cuisine: Comfort Food