10 Slow Cooker Chili Recipes to Try This Week

Here is a curated collection of my 10 best slow cooker chili recipes. As temperatures drop and the season turns, a pot of chili is one of the coziest meals you can make. These recipes are tailored for slow cookers and Instant Pots, offering a range of flavors from classic beef to inventive variations like pumpkin and Indian-spiced chili. Each entry includes a clear title, an image, and a brief description to help you choose the perfect bowl for dinner or meal prep.

Slow Cooker Chili Recipes

overhead shot of chili in a bowl garnished with green onion and cheese with cornbread on the side

Old Fashioned Beef Chili

Old fashioned beef chili is a timeless, comforting recipe that delivers robust flavor with simple ingredients. Slow-simmered in a Crock-Pot or finished in an Instant Pot, this version emphasizes tender beef, savory spices, and a rich tomato base. It’s ideal for family dinners, game day gatherings, or batch cooking for the week.

Image for Southern Soul Food Chili

Southern Soul Food Chili

Southern Soul Food Chili combines soulful regional ingredients with classic chili spices for a warm, deeply seasoned bowl. This recipe highlights bold flavors and a homey texture—perfect when you want comfort food with character. It adapts well to both slow cookers and electric pressure cookers.

indian chili in a bowl with a side of naan

Indian Spiced Chili

Indian Spiced Chili blends familiar chili ingredients with Indian-inspired spices like garam masala, cumin, and coriander. Chickpeas or lentils can be used for added texture and protein, making this hearty bowl both aromatic and satisfying. It’s a delicious way to introduce global flavors to a classic comfort dish.

close up of chorizo beef chili in a white bowl garnished with sliced jalapeno, cheese and cilantro

Chorizo Beef Chili

Chorizo Beef Chili pairs spicy, smoky chorizo with ground beef and Mexican-inspired seasonings for a bold, savory dish. The combination produces a deep, smoky profile and satisfyingly rich texture. This hearty chili is an excellent crowd-pleaser and works well for feeding groups or freezing for later.

Image for White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili

White Chicken Chili is a lighter, creamy alternative to traditional tomato-based chili. Tender shredded chicken, white beans, green chiles, and a subtle blend of spices create a comforting, year-round meal. It’s an excellent option for those seeking a milder, bright-tasting chili with plenty of texture.

side view close up shot of pumpkin chili in a white bowl with a silver spoon

Pumpkin Chili

Pumpkin Chili adds a subtle autumnal sweetness and silky texture to traditional chili spices. The pumpkin complements tomatoes and peppers, creating a seasonal bowl that’s both comforting and slightly unexpected. It’s a creative twist for fall meal rotation and works well with slow cooker convenience.

cooked turkey chili in a white bowl topped with cheese, green onion and sour cream with a silver spoon

Turkey Chili

Turkey Chili offers a lean, flavorful alternative to red meat chili without sacrificing taste. Ground turkey stewed with tomatoes, beans, and spices creates a lighter, nutritious bowl that’s easy to prepare in a slow cooker. It’s great for weekday meals, leftover lunches, and healthier entertaining.

Image for Bean-Free Chili

Bean-Free Chili

Bean-Free Chili is a low-carb, keto-friendly take on chili that focuses on seasoned meat and vegetables instead of beans. This version is paleo and Whole30 adaptable, delivering bold flavor with fewer carbs. It’s a satisfying option for those following low-carb or elimination diets.

overhead shot of Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili in a white bowl garnished with blue cheese and green onion

Buffalo Chicken Chili

Buffalo Chicken Chili merges the tangy heat of Buffalo sauce with traditional chili ingredients for a zesty, unique bowl. Vegetables like celery and carrots add crunch and balance, while creamy toppings such as blue cheese or ranch mellow the spice. It’s a fun fusion for fans of Buffalo-style flavors.

close up of overhead shot of taco chili in a white bowl with a jalapeno with cheese

Taco Chili

Taco Chili fuses favorite taco flavors—seasoned beef, black beans, and taco spices—into a hearty chili format. Topped with traditional taco garnishes like cilantro, cheese, and avocado, it’s a versatile crowd-pleaser that tastes like your favorite taco night in a bowl.

overhead shot of chunky beef stew in a white bowl garnish with avocado & cilantro

Chunky Beef Chili

Chunky Beef Chili emphasizes large, tender pieces of beef and hearty vegetables for a satisfying, stew-like chili. It’s designed to be filling without feeling heavy and works beautifully for low-carb or paleo adaptations. This recipe shines when you want a rustic, stick-to-your-ribs meal.