Easy Weeknight Chili Recipe for a Quick Dinner

Easy Weeknight Chili — a american recipe (main course) with 12 ingredients. Source: edamam.com.

Medium
Updated March 20, 2026

45

Total Time (min)

6

servings

327

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Easy Weeknight Chili Recipe for a Quick Dinner

Ingredients

Servings:
6
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained (15 oz)
  • 1 can black beans, drained (15 oz)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup water

Instructions

5 steps

  1. Heat Oil

    In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

    Make sure the oil is hot before adding the onion.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic

    Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

    Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
  3. Cook Meat

    Add the ground beef or turkey, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.

    Break up the meat with a spoon for even cooking.
  4. Add Remaining Ingredients

    Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

    Mix well to combine all ingredients.
  5. Simmer

    Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

    Add water if the chili is too thick.

💡 Tips & Tricks

Health: Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Wheat-Free, Egg-Free, Peanut-Free, Tree-Nut-Free. Diet: High-Fiber

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 4 days in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 3 months — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened.

What to Serve With

Complete your american meal with these perfect pairings:

🍽️Coleslaw
🍽️French fries or baked potatoes
🍽️Corn on the cob

About This Dish

Easy Weeknight Chili Recipe for a Quick Dinner is a beloved dish from American cuisine. With a total preparation time of about 45 minutes, it makes for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

American cuisine is a melting pot of flavors and traditions from around the world, shaped by the diverse cultures that make up the nation. From hearty comfort food to innovative modern dishes.

This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 12 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, substitute the meat with more beans or lentils.

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Nutrition Facts

6 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories350kcal
Total Fat15gg
Sodium800mgmg
Total Carbohydrates30gg
Dietary Fiber8gg
Total Sugars5gg
Protein25gg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CuisineAmerican