Name: Easy Healthy Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tsp olive oil; 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7); 1 medium white onion, diced; 1 tbsp minced garlic; 1 (15oz) can kidney beans, drained; 1 (15oz) can diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef bone broth; 2 tbsp chili powder; 2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Table of Contents: Easy Healthy Chili

Easy Healthy Chili

Remember those chilly evenings, the aroma of something delicious simmering on the stove, and the comfort of a warm bowl in your hands? As we get older, those simple pleasures become even more precious.

This Easy Healthy Chili recipe brings back those cozy memories, but with a modern twist – it’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and won’t leave you feeling weighed down. It’s the perfect solution for a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

This isn’t your typical, heavy chili. We’ve focused on creating a lean chili that’s brimming with goodness. It’s a fantastic quick chili recipe for busy weeknights, a crowd-pleaser for casual gatherings, and even a welcome addition to holiday potlucks.

Forget complicated recipes and long ingredient lists; this one is streamlined for maximum flavor and minimal effort. It’s truly healthy comfort food at its finest, and it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.

This recipe is designed with simplicity and health in mind, making it ideal for anyone looking for a delicious and nourishing meal. It’s a great way to sneak in extra protein and fiber, and it’s easily customizable to suit your preferences. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Alternate Names & Variations

You might also find recipes for this under names like “Beef Chili,” “Quick Weeknight Chili,” or “Simple Chili.” Many variations exist, but this recipe focuses on being both easy and healthy. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño. Vegetarian options are also popular – simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans.

Ingredients: Easy Healthy Chili

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting and nutritious chili:

* 1 tsp olive oil
* 1 lb lean ground beef (I use 90/10 or 93/7 for a lean chili)

* 1 medium white onion, diced
* 1 tbsp minced garlic
* 1 15oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 15oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 2 cups beef bone broth (low sodium preferred)
* 2 tbsp chili powder
* 2 tsp paprika
* 1 tsp cumin
* 1 tsp dried oregano
* 1 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional Garnishes:* Fresh parsley, shredded cheddar cheese (in moderation!), a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Chef Tip: Don’t rush this step! Properly sautéed onions and garlic form the flavor base of the entire chili.

2. Brown the Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the pot and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease. Shortcut: Use pre-cooked ground beef to save even more time!

3. Add the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their flavors. Chef Tip: Blooming the spices in oil is a crucial step for a flavorful chili.

4. Combine the Ingredients: Add the drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and beef bone broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.

5. Simmer to Perfection: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Chef Tip: A low and slow simmer is key for tender beef and a rich, developed flavor.

6. Taste and Adjust: Taste the chili and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more chili powder for heat, salt for flavor, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

7. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the Easy Healthy Chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as fresh parsley, a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

This Easy Healthy Chili comes together in under 40 minutes! Prep time is approximately 10 minutes, and cook time is around 30 minutes. The total time to enjoy this delicious meal is about 40 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Approximate calories per serving are around 350-400 (depending on lean beef percentage and garnishes).

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This recipe works because it prioritizes flavor without relying on excessive amounts of fat. Using lean ground beef and beef bone broth keeps the chili light and healthy, while the generous blend of spices creates a depth of flavor that’s incredibly satisfying. The simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a truly comforting and delicious meal.

It’s perfect easy comfort food for family dinners because it’s quick, easy, and appeals to a wide range of palates. Plus, it’s a great way to get a healthy dose of protein and fiber into your diet. For an even healthier twist, consider adding more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Leftover Easy Healthy Chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, this quick chili recipe freezes beautifully! Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

To reheat, thaw the chili overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl. Adding a splash of beef broth during reheating can help restore some of the moisture.

Conclusion: Easy Healthy Chili

There you have it – a truly Easy Healthy Chili recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite! It’s a comforting, flavorful, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try and see for yourself how delicious healthy eating can be.

Don’t forget to share your creations with me! Tag me on social media or leave a comment below letting me know how your chili turned out. I love hearing from you and seeing your culinary adventures. Happy cooking!