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Easy Pioneer Woman Chili - Hearty Family Favorite Recipe

The Pioneer Woman Chili recipe delivers hearty comfort with a perfect balance of protein, beans, vegetables, and spices. Unlike traditional thick chili, this version has a delicious chili soup consistency, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 –8 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Dinner, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs ground beef or turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cans 14.5 oz each diced tomatoes
  • 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 cans 15 oz each kidney beans, drained & rinsed
  • 1 can 15 oz pinto beans, drained & rinsed
  • 2 –3 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • Garnishes: shredded cheese sour cream, green onions, avocado slices, tortilla chips

Method
 

  1. Prep: Dice onion, bell pepper, mince garlic, and measure spices.
  2. Brown meat: Heat oil in Dutch oven. Add ground beef, cook 5–7 minutes until browned. Drain fat.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook 3–5 minutes until softened.
  4. Build base: Return beef, add chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt & pepper. Toast spices 1–2 minutes.
  5. Add tomatoes & broth: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring to simmer.
  6. Simmer: Cover and cook on low for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Add beans: Stir in kidney and pinto beans. Simmer 15 minutes more.
  8. Finish: Taste, adjust seasonings, and serve hot with desired garnishes.

Notes

This chili soup is even better the next day as flavors deepen. Toasting the spices before adding liquids is key to unlocking bold flavors.