This Award Winning Chili recipe is rich, hearty, and packed with bold flavor. If you're tired of bland chili, this cook-off style recipe delivers layers of smoky spices, tender meat, and a secret ingredient that makes every bowl unforgettable.
Jump to:
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Award-Winning Chili Recipe was a major hit at a cook-off in my Northwestern Indian hometown. It's the kind that keeps people coming back for seconds. Here’s why I love it:
- Deep, Bold Chili Flavor: A combination of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne creates a rich, well-balanced spice profile, just like the slow-simmered goodness in my Crockpot Chili Recipe.
- The Secret Ingredient: A small amount of cocoa powder enhances the savory flavor and adds subtle richness. It deepens the chili without making it taste sweet and always gets rave reviews, like the numerous incredible reviews under my Chili pin on Pinterest.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Ground turkey, tender beans, tomatoes, and broth simmer together to create a thick, comforting chili that’s perfect for cozy dinners. For a creamy twist, try something like my White Chili with Ground Chicken and Sour Cream.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Chili always tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. It reheats beautifully and freezes well for easy future meals.
- Classic Chili Toppings: Serve it with shredded cheddar and sour cream for the perfect creamy finish. Cornbread, tortilla chips, or crusty bread make great sides.
Key Ingredients
- Ground Turkey Thighs – Adds rich flavor and a tender texture to the chili. You can substitute with ground chicken thighs or ground beef for a heartier version.
- Ground Turkey Breast – Keeps the chili lean while still adding plenty of protein. Ground chicken breast or extra turkey thighs work just as well.
- Diced Tomatoes – Provide a juicy, tangy base that balances the spices. Canned or fresh tomatoes both work fine.
- Kidney Beans – Add a hearty bite and help thicken the chili. You can replace them with black beans or pinto beans if needed.
- White Beans – Bring a creamy texture that complements the kidney beans. Navy beans or cannellini beans are good alternatives.
- Tomato Paste – Deepens the tomato flavor and gives the chili a thick, rich consistency. Tomato sauce can be used instead if that’s what you have.
- Chicken Broth – Keeps the chili saucy and flavorful. You can use beef broth for a deeper flavor or vegetable broth for a lighter option.
- Jalapeño Pepper – Brings a gentle heat and fresh pepper flavor. For a milder chili, remove the seeds or skip it altogether.
- Green Bell Pepper – Adds crunch and a mild sweetness. Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers can be used for extra color and flavor.
- Chili Powder – The main spice blend that defines the chili’s flavor. Use your favorite mild or hot variety depending on your spice preference.
- Cayenne Pepper – Adds a kick of heat. Adjust the amount to make it as mild or spicy as you like.
- Smoked Paprika – Gives a subtle smoky flavor that rounds out the spices. Regular paprika can be used if you prefer less smokiness.
- Ground Cumin – Adds warmth and a slightly nutty aroma that pairs perfectly with the chili powder.
- Dried Oregano – Brings a hint of herbal flavor that balances the richness of the meat and tomatoes.
- Brown Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and spice from the peppers.
- Cocoa Powder – The secret ingredient that adds depth and richness. It enhances the flavor without making the chili taste like chocolate.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully on top of the hot chili, adding creamy, tangy flavor.
- Sour Cream – A cool, creamy topping that balances the spice and gives each bite a smooth finish.
Substitutions and Variations
Here are some of my favorite substitutions and variations:
- Protein Options: I like using ground turkey for a lighter chili, but ground beef, pork, or even bison make it richer. You can also mix in Italian sausage for extra flavor.
- Bean Choices: You can swap the kidney and white beans for black beans, pinto beans, or navy beans. Use whatever you have in your pantry.
- Broth Swaps: I usually use chicken broth, but beef broth gives a deeper flavor. Vegetable broth works great if you want to keep it lighter.
How to Make an Award-Winning Chili Recipe
Step 1: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Stir in the garlic, jalapeño, and green bell pepper. Cook for 10 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: In a separate sauté pan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey thighs and breast.
Step 4: Cook the meat for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring often and breaking up large pieces, until browned and cooked through.
Step 5: Transfer the cooked meat to the Dutch oven with the onion and pepper mixture. Stir to combine.
Step 6: Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and white beans to the pot. Stir gently to mix all ingredients.
Step 7: In a small bowl, dilute the tomato paste with 1 cup of chicken broth. Pour the mixture into the pot.
Step 8: Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, brown sugar, cocoa powder, the remaining chicken broth, and salt. Stir well to combine.
Step 9: Bring the chili to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
Step 10: Simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. If the chili becomes too thick, add ½ cup of chicken broth.
Step 11: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
For full list of ingredients and instructions, see recipe card below.
What to Serve with Award Winning Chili Recipe
Side Dishes
- A warm bowl of this Award-Winning Chili pairs perfectly with something fresh and flavorful on the side. We love serving it with Grilled Chili Lime Butter Corn for a smoky, tangy bite that complements the chili’s spice.
- For something lighter, try it alongside Easy White Bean Salad with Roasted Bell Peppers or a simple plate of Best Ever Skillet Green Beans. And if you’re craving something hearty and crispy, Crispy Smashed Red Potatoes With Garlic And Dill In The Oven make a perfect match.
Appetizers
- Before serving the chili, we like to start with a few easy appetizers. Bruschetta With Pesto And Sun-Dried Tomatoes adds a bright, herby flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich chili.
- For a fun and fresh option, Cucumber Cups With Greek Style Filling are always a hit. You can also serve BBQ Bean Sliders for something hearty or Baked Zucchini With Mozzarella And Tomatoes for a warm, cheesy side that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. You can substitute the ground turkey with beef, pork, chicken, or even bison. If you like a richer flavor, try adding a bit of Italian sausage to the mix.
That’s completely fine. You can use any beans you have on hand such as black beans, pinto beans, or navy beans. The chili will still turn out hearty and delicious.
Cocoa powder adds depth and a subtle richness that balances the spices and tomatoes. It doesn’t make the chili sweet, but it gives it a more complex flavor.
Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid. You can also mash some of the beans with a fork to naturally thicken the chili.
Shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream are classic choices. You can also add diced avocado, chopped green onions, or crushed tortilla chips for extra texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.
Recipe
Award Winning Chili Recipe
Video
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey thighs chicken thighs can be used instead
- 1 lb ground turkey breast chicken breast can be used instead
- 2 cans (14 oz each can) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans
- 1 can (14 oz) white beans
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 32 oz chicken broth
- 1 large onion finely minced
- 1 jalapeño pepper chopped
- 1 green bell pepper chopped
- 8 cloves garlic finely minced
- 4 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoon cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar shredded, for serving
- 8 tablespoon sour cream for serving
Instructions
- In a large Dutch Oven heat 2 tablespoon of olive oil. Add onion and sauté on a medium-high heat for 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and both types of peppers and cook over medium heat stirring occasionally for 10 minutes.
- In a medium sauté pan heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and add ground turkey thighs and breast. Cook, stirring constantly and breaking up the big chunks with a fork until the liquid evaporates and meat is thoroughly cooked and slightly brown, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add cooked meat into a pot with an onion and pepper mixture.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and beans.
- Dilute tomato paste with 1 cup of chicken broth and add into a pot.
- Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, brown sugar, cocoa powder, the remaining chicken broth and ½ teaspoon of salt.
- Give everything a good stir and bring Chili to a boil. Cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low. If the soup becomes too thick, add ½ cup of chicken broth.
- Simmer for 1 hour.
- Adjust the seasoning and serve immediately with shredded Cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
Notes
Nutrition
More Recipes You'll Enjoy
- The Best Vegan Chili – Vegan Chili Recipe is sure to become a mainstay in your kitchen with its spicy and hearty flavor. Ready in 30 minutes, perfectly balanced and so delicious.
- Beef Stew with Carrots and Potatoes – This Beef Stew is incredibly easy to make with rich, savory gravy, tender chunks of beef, and a medley of hearty vegetables for perfect homemade flavors.
- Salmon Soup (Creamy & Yummy) – You've got to try this creamy dreamy Salmon Soup. It's healthy, satisfying and incredibly delicious. You'll be making it again!
Iryna Bychkiv is the founder and writer of the culinary website Lavender & Macarons, where she shares clean, European-inspired recipes that are delicious, easy to prepare, and made with wholesome ingredients. Iryna loves creating meals that are simple yet healthy and unique, including vegan and vegetarian recipes.
Iryna is also a freelance writer for MSN and Associated Press Wire.
Tammy says
I totally sucked at chili until I found this recipe! I love it and so does my family! It has such a great flavor!
A couple of things - I know it says it's "quick", but I personally wouldn't describe it that way. UNLESS, you do it like me and throw everything in a pot after browning the meat and sauteing the peppers mixture. It took a little personalization (a little spicy for the kids so I take out jalapeno pepper seeds and lessen the cayenne by ½ tsp. Always serve with sour cream). But it turns out great every time and it's always a group favorite!
Iryna Bychkiv says
Tammy, thank you for your lovely comment and 5-star rating! I'm very happy you enjoyed this chili recipe!
Alison says
This was by far the best chili recipe I’ve ever had in my 29 years of being on this earth! Lol. My husband agreed. I made a few changes: fire roasted tomatoes instead of regular, I use Cannellini beans for the white beans, mixed the 2 cups chicken bone broth w the 6 oz of tomato paste before pouring in. I also cooked the onion for 5 mins and then added the veggies and meat just to save dishes and used 2 pounds 93% turkey. I was very skeptical of the brown sugar and cocoa powder but those are 2 secret ingredients, I’m tellin ya! I will never try and other chili recipe! Lol nice and spicy but the sour cream helps cut the spice!
Iryna Bychkiv says
Alison, thank you so much for your kind words and 5-star rating! I'm very happy you and your husband enjoyed this chili recipe!
Mary A says
I finally found my favourite chili recipe! However, I did make some substitutions. I did 1 lb lean ground beef and 1 lb ground pork. 1 can of baked beans instead of the white beans and fire-roasted tomatoes vs. regular diced…just to switch it up a bit. Your spice ratio is perfect. So delicious with the right amount of heat!
Iryna Bychkiv says
Mary, thank you so much for your comment and 5-star rating! I'm so happy you liked my Chili recipe:)
penelope says
chatGPT sure knows how to cook a good chili
Iryna Bychkiv says
Good to know:)
Meg says
I need to make 3 gallons for a cook off - how many servings should I shoot for for 3 gallons you think?
Iryna Bychkiv says
I would say 3 gallons will give you roughly 40-45 servings, depending on the serving size.
Carol DiFilippo Accetta says
I am forever trying chili recipes because I have never been happy with any I have tried until now! This chili was worth the effort. I did it just as printed, except for one small change. I only added three cups of chicken broth because I like it a little thick. It makes a big pot so now I feel comfortable giving a big container of it to my adult children. This is a keeper for me.
Iryna Bychkiv says
Carol, thank you so much for your comment and 5-star rating! I'm so happy you enjoyed this Chili recipe:)
Adored says
Can't wait to try this. I found a beef chili recipe on yourlighterside.com about 10 years back with cocoa powder in it and I've been using it ever since. Genius.
Iryna says
Adored, I hope you'll give this Chili a try. It's very delicious:)
Agnes Williams says
Hi Iryna, I made ur chilli today and it tasted really good. Thank you for sharing ur recipe with all of us.
Iryna says
Agnes, thank you so much for your comment and a 5-star rating! I'm so glad you enjoyed this recipe!
Danny886 says
Where in the name of God do you find ground turkey thighs?
Iryna says
Danny886, turkey thighs are probably easier to find around Thanksgiving time, but you can substitute with ground chicken thighs.
Chad says
So, you're saying you buy the thighs and grind them yourself, I take it. But I don't have a grinder, so I will just have to stick to whatever part of the turkey is used in the ground turkey I find at the grocery store.
Iryna says
Yes, any type of ground meat works in this recipe.
Lauren says
That seems like an awful lot of calories and fat for a turkey chili. Does that include sour cream and cheese? And what is the serving size that corresponds with the nutrition estimates? Thanks!
Danny says
Where in the world do you find ground chicken thighs?
Jean Jenkins says
Maybe buy boneless chicken thighs and have the butcher grind them.
Barbara Petoskey says
Wonderful flavor! Just the right amount of spice! Added corn and mushrooms! Will definitely be making it again.
Iryna says
Barbara, thank you for your comment and a 5-star rating! I'm happy you enjoyed this recipe! Adding corn and mushrooms sounds like a delicious addition to the soup.