12 Award-Winning Chili Recipes: Your Ultimate Guide to Prize-Winning Comfort Food

As winter descends and the temperatures drop, there’s a universal craving for dishes that offer warmth, comfort, and hearty satisfaction. And when it comes to the ultimate comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a steaming bowl of chili! If you’re on the hunt for championship-level flavor, you’ve landed in the perfect place. We’ve curated a spectacular collection of 12 award-winning chili recipes from talented food bloggers, ensuring a diverse range of options for every palate and cooking style.

collage of 4 photos of award-winning chili with black text on white background

Our selection includes everything from classic stovetop chili to convenient Instant Pot and Crock-Pot versions, robust Texas chili, lean turkey chili, and rich steak chili. What makes these recipes truly special is their proven track record: each one has clinched awards and won competitions, whether at local farmer’s market challenges, spirited family cook-offs, online contests, or even national championships! These aren’t just recipes; they are celebrated masterpieces, guaranteed to impress.

Chili isn’t just for cold evenings; it’s also the quintessential game day or tailgating food, perfect for feeding a large crowd or gathering loved ones around the dinner table. Its versatility, robust flavors, and ease of preparation make it a go-to for many occasions. There’s truly nothing like the satisfying warmth of a well-made bowl of chili to make you feel cozy and content. So, get ready to explore these tried-and-true, prize-winning recipes and bring championship flavor into your kitchen!

Southern Soul Chili

This Award-winning Southern Chili is a testament to rich, comforting flavors. Crafted with a hearty blend of beef, kidney beans, and black beans, all swimming in a deeply flavored, slow-simmered sauce, it’s bursting with incredible taste. Perfect for tailgating events, game day feasts, or whenever you need to feed a hungry crowd, its hours of simmering create a truly unforgettable comfort food experience. This recipe proudly won a local Farmer Market Chili Challenge and has continued its winning streak in numerous competitions since then, proving its widespread appeal.

Check out this Southern Soul Chili!

Southern Soul Chili, with cheese and green onion on top, in a white bowl with bread on the side

Healthy Ground Turkey Chili

Looking for a lighter, yet equally delicious, chili option? This award-winning Healthy Ground Turkey Chili recipe is a fantastic choice. It has proven its popularity by winning several family cook-offs, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Designed to be kid-friendly and incredibly quick, it’s an ideal solution for a satisfying weeknight dinner, cooking in just 30 minutes. Each spoonful is packed with savory ground turkey, wholesome beans, fresh veggies, and rich tomato flavor, delivering a comforting and nutritious meal for the whole family.

Check out this Healthy Ground Turkey Chili!

ground turkey chili in a white bowl with blue and white linen in front and another bowl of chili in the back

Award-Winning Texas Chili

For chili purists, this Award-Winning Texas Chili is an absolute must-try. As a 1st place winner at a prestigious Texas Chili Cookoff, it embodies the true spirit of Texan chili: bold, rich, and meat-focused. This authentic recipe stands out by omitting tomatoes and beans, putting the spotlight entirely on tender, perfectly seasoned meat and a complex blend of spices. It promises a hearty, deeply satisfying meal, ideal for warming up on a crisp fall evening or a chilly winter day. Experience a genuine taste of Texas with this champion recipe.

Check out this Award-winning Texas Chili!

Tailgate Chili

If you’re looking for a chili recipe that consistently wins over judges and crowds, this Tailgate Chili is your answer. This recipe is a multiple award-winning champion, celebrated for its robust and satisfying blend. It’s generously packed with flavorful meat, wholesome beans, perfectly diced vegetables, sweet tomatoes, and a masterful combination of spices. Beyond its incredible taste, this chili is highly practical: it’s ideal for making ahead of time, allowing flavors to meld beautifully, and it freezes exceptionally well, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks or spontaneous gatherings.

Check out this Tailgate Chili recipe!

tailgate chili in a white bowl on a platter, with cheese on top and little crackers scattered around

Award Winning Chili with Ground Beef and Pinto Beans

This Award-winning Beef Chili Recipe with Pinto Beans truly stands out as a champion. It has conquered several cooking contests, including an exclusive competition for University of Georgia parents, proving its irresistible appeal. This classic recipe delivers a comforting and robust one-bowl dinner that is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of savory ground beef and tender pinto beans creates a familiar yet exceptional flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s the perfect hearty meal for any day of the week, bringing award-winning taste right to your table.

Check out this Chili with Pinto beans and ground beef!

chili in a white casserole bowl, topped with jalapenos, sour cream and chips, on a brown cutting board

Instant Pot Chili

Experience the magic of speed and flavor with this Easy Instant Pot Chili (Pressure Cooker Chili). This recipe is renowned for being loaded with incredible layers of umami, creating a rich, flavorful, and incredibly tasty beef and beans chili. It’s designed to satisfy your most intense comfort food cravings, delivering deep flavors in a fraction of the time. What’s more, countless readers have used this very recipe to win chili competitions and cook-offs, cementing its status as a proven champion. Prepare to be amazed by how quickly and deliciously you can achieve award-winning chili!

Check out this Easy Instant Pot Chili!

instant pot chili in a white bowl, with a spoon being held up over bowl

Crock-Pot Crazy Pineapple Chili

Dare to be different with this Crock-Pot Crazy Pineapple Chili! This contest-winning recipe boasts an unexpected and utterly amazing flavor twist that captivates everyone who tastes it. The subtle sweetness and tang of pineapple add a remarkable dimension to traditional chili, making it truly unique. Beyond its innovative taste, this chili is wonderfully quick and easy to prepare in a slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy rich, complex flavors with minimal effort. Plus, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t skimp on taste. Get ready for a chili experience that will have people raving and wondering about your secret ingredient!

Check out this Crockpot Pineapple Chili!

Pineapple chili in a yellow bowl with chili ingredients in the background

Dad’s Secret Ingredient Chili

Uncover the mystery and delight of Dad’s award-winning secret ingredient chili! This hearty chili is celebrated for its big, bold flavors and a couple of truly unexpected ingredients that make it stand apart from the rest. The beauty of this one-pot wonder is its efficiency; it requires only 15 minutes of active prep time before simmering gently on the stovetop. This hands-off cooking method allows the rich spices and flavors to meld perfectly, culminating in a deeply satisfying bowl of coziness that’s perfect for any occasion. Prepare to be intrigued and impressed by Dad’s culinary secret!

Check out this Secret Ingredient Chili!

2 bowls of Dad's secret ingredient chili with squares of chocolate in the background

Pickleball Chili

This classic chili, affectionately known as Pickleball Chili, has a remarkable history of success in chili cook-offs. It has either won outright or consistently placed among the top contenders in multiple competitions, earning it a loyal following. Tried and true over many years, this recipe’s enduring popularity is no accident; it delivers a perfectly balanced and deeply satisfying flavor that resonates with chili lovers everywhere. If you’re looking for a dependable, delicious, and award-proven classic, this is the chili for you.

Check out this Pickleball Chili!

Tri-Tip Steak Chili

Elevate your chili experience with this magnificent Tri-Tip Steak Chili. You’ll be delighted by how effortlessly you can create this thick, hearty, and luxurious chili. It features a generous amount of tender tri-tip steak, three types of wholesome beans, savory fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra depth of flavor, and zesty green chiles to provide a pleasant kick. This recipe is designed to impress and is perfect for feeding a large crowd, whether it’s for a special gathering or a hearty family meal. Indulge in the rich flavors and satisfying texture of this exceptional steak chili.

Check out this Tri-tip Steak Chili!

Tri tip steak chili in a white bowl with pot of chili in the background

Indian Spice Turkey Chili

Prepare for your taste buds to be rocked by this incredibly unique and flavorful Indian-Spiced Turkey Chili recipe! This might just be the most distinct chili you’ve ever tasted, offering an exciting departure from traditional flavors. It’s an amazing, yet surprisingly easy, chili recipe that not only wins cook-offs but also gets passed from friend to friend as everyone clamors for the recipe. The aromatic Indian spices infuse the lean turkey with an exotic warmth and depth, creating a chili that is both comforting and extraordinarily memorable.

Check out this Indian Spice Turkey Chili!

Indian Spiced Turkey Chili in a blue bowl with spoon and yellow bowl of chili in the background

Having experienced countless chili contests and savoring a multitude of chili recipes throughout my life (which, admittedly, is immense fun!), I can confidently say I’m quite particular about my chili. While I’ve only had the opportunity to compete in one friendly cook-off, my taste buds have, over the years, crowned one recipe above all others. And as far as I’m concerned, this Pork and Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe remains undefeated—it is, without a doubt, the ultimate chili!

The Best Chili Ever!

Crafted with a delectable combination of both pork and beef, and often finished with a luscious dollop of sour cream, this chili truly is exceptional. In fact, it holds the title of the best chili recipe I have ever had, featuring a unique secret ingredient that elevates its flavor profile to extraordinary heights. It is, by far, my personal favorite chili recipe! Should I ever have the chance to enter another chili contest or cook-off, this is unequivocally the recipe I’ll be bringing to the table, confident it will secure another win.

But don’t just take my word for it! Here’s what others are saying about this Stovetop Pork and Beef Chili recipe: “This is BY FAR the best chili I have ever made and tasted!! So easy, so yummy and the fresh dill is the deal breaker. I would give it 6 stars if I could! Thank you for sharing Terri!!” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Such glowing testimonials only solidify its status as a championship-worthy dish!

Pork and Beef Stovetop Chili

This quick and easy homemade stovetop chili achieves an incredible depth of flavor by combining both savory pork and rich beef. But the true magic ingredient that sets this recipe apart is fresh dill, which adds an unexpected and delightful brightness. With a simple seasoning mix, canned tomatoes, and dark red kidney beans, it comes together quickly for a fast dinner, making it the perfect chili for feeding a crowd in a hurry. What’s more, it’s also Weight Watchers friendly! This recipe is easily adaptable – feel free to double, triple, or even quadruple it if you’re hosting a larger group and need to scale up your chili production.

Check out this recipe

Top Tips: Maximizing Your Chili Experience

Chili is inherently versatile, offering endless possibilities beyond just a bowl. Here are some expert tips to enhance your chili enjoyment, from creative ways to use leftovers to an extensive list of delicious toppings.

🍲What to do with Leftover Chili: Creative Culinary Uses

While a bowl of chili on its own is a sublime experience, any leftover chili can be transformed into a variety of exciting new meals. Think of it as a flavorful base for countless dishes. Use your leftover chili as a robust topping or filling for:

Baked Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: A classic pairing! Load up a fluffy baked potato with chili, cheese, and your favorite fresh toppings for a hearty meal.
French Fries (Chili Cheese Fries): Take your fries to the next level by smothering them in hot chili and melted cheese.
Hot Dogs (Chili Dogs): The ultimate game day staple. A juicy hot dog topped with savory chili is pure comfort.
Macaroni and Cheese (Chili Mac): Stir leftover chili into creamy macaroni and cheese for a comforting, satisfying fusion dish.
Nachos: Layer chili over tortilla chips with melted cheese, jalapeños, and salsa for an unbeatable appetizer or casual dinner.
Burritos or Tacos: Use chili as a flavorful filling for wraps, burritos, or soft tacos.
Stuffed Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with chili, then bake until tender.
Quesadillas: Spread a thin layer of chili inside a quesadilla with cheese for an extra kick.

The Best Toppings for Chili: A Symphony of Flavors and Textures

The right toppings can elevate a good bowl of chili to a truly extraordinary one. While the possibilities are truly endless, here are my top recommendations for enhancing flavor, texture, and visual appeal:

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A classic choice that melts beautifully, adding a creamy, tangy richness.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Offers a cooling, creamy contrast to the chili’s heat and spices.
Tortilla Chips or Strips: Provides a satisfying crunch and a salty counterpoint.
Fritos: A popular choice for their distinctive corn flavor and crisp texture, perfect for scooping.
Black Olives: Adds a briny, salty depth that complements rich flavors.
Sliced Green Onions (Scallions): Fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love an extra kick of fresh heat and vibrant flavor.
Banana Pepper Rings: Offers a milder, tangy, and slightly sweet heat.
Diced Avocado: Adds a creamy, rich texture and a refreshing, buttery taste.
Fresh Cilantro: Bright, herbaceous notes that cut through the richness.
Fresh Dill: An unexpected but incredible addition, especially with beef and pork chili, offering a unique fresh aroma.
Diced Tomato: Adds a burst of fresh acidity and juicy texture.
Corn (Canned, Fresh, or Frozen): Sweet kernels provide a pleasant crunch and balance the savory notes.
Salsa: Offers a medley of fresh flavors and a hint of spice.
Cornbread or Cornbread Muffins: Essential for soaking up every last drop of delicious chili.

🌶️Make it Spicy! Turn Up the Heat

If you’re a fan of chili with a fiery kick, there are plenty of ways to spice up your bowl to your preferred heat level. Don’t be shy – experiment with these potent add-ins:

Your Favorite Hot Sauce: A few dashes can instantly transform the heat and flavor. Brands like Tabasco, Cholula, or Sriracha each offer a distinct profile.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Easy to sprinkle in during cooking or as a garnish for a visible burst of heat.
Fresh Jalapeño Peppers: Sliced or minced, these add a fresh, vibrant heat. Remove seeds and membranes for milder spice.
Serrano Peppers: For a hotter kick than jalapeños, try thinly sliced serranos.
Habanero or Scotch Bonnet Peppers: For serious heat seekers, these provide an intense fruity heat. Use sparingly!
Cayenne Pepper: A powdered option that blends seamlessly into the chili, offering clean, strong heat.
Chipotle Powder: Adds not only heat but also a smoky depth of flavor.
Frank’s RedHot Sauce: A popular choice for its vinegary, piquant heat.
Chili Oil: Drizzle on top for an extra layer of heat and a glossy finish.

🌡️Storage and Reheating: Enjoying Chili for Days

Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious chili for days to come, ensuring its freshness and flavor remain intact. Follow these guidelines to keep your chili tasting great:

It’s always best to allow your freshly cooked chili to cool down significantly (uncovered) before placing the lid on its container and transferring it to the refrigerator. This prevents condensation and helps maintain food safety. However, never leave chili out at room temperature for more than two hours, as this is when bacteria can begin to multiply rapidly.

While each specific recipe might have its own unique storage instructions, as a general rule, chili will last safely for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer preservation, most of these hearty chili recipes are excellent for freezing. To freeze, portion cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. It can typically be frozen for up to 3-6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until thoroughly hot. Always check the individual recipe’s storage recommendations for the best results.

Whether you’re yearning for a time-honored classic, a traditional chili recipe, or something daringly new and unique, you simply can’t go wrong with any of these award-winning chili recipes. Each one offers a journey of flavor, comfort, and the undeniable satisfaction of a meal made with passion and proven success. Dive in, experiment, and discover your next favorite bowl of championship chili!

And if you’re hungry for more award-winning recipes, check out this post: 40 Award-winning Recipes !

collage of 3 photos of award-winning recipes with white text on black background in the middle