Dinner
Instant Pot Chili
A classic meat-and-bean chili made tender in one pot without hours of simmering. This is the standard recipe home cooks expect: beef browned first, aromatics sautéed, then everything pressure-cooked until the beans are creamy and the flavors are deep.
✓ Macros from a nutrition database · per serving · developed by The Delicious Kitchen with AI assistance, not independently kitchen-tested · how we calculate this
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Instant Pot Chili — common questions
Can I make chili ahead and freeze it?
Yes, this is excellent for freezing. Cool it completely, divide into portions, and freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5–7 minutes until heated through.
Can I use canned beans straight from the can without draining?
You can, but the chili will be wetter and less flavorful. Draining and rinsing the beans removes the starchy liquid and lets you control the liquid level with the broth instead.
What if my chili is too thin?
This happens if you used undrained canned beans or too much broth. Use the 'Sauté' setting to simmer it uncovered for 5–10 minutes until it thickens, or stir in 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water and simmer for 1 minute more.
Can I make this without beef, or with turkey or chicken?
Yes. Use 1½ pounds ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, browning it the same way. The chili will be leaner and lighter in flavor; add an extra tablespoon of chili powder to compensate.
How do I reheat leftover chili?
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water if it's too thick, for 5–7 minutes until hot. Or reheat individual bowls in the microwave covered at 50% power for 2–3 minutes.
What toppings go with chili?
Sour cream or Greek yogurt, diced raw onion, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro are the classics. Serve over rice, with cornbread, or in a baked potato.
More instant pot recipes
- Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe 60 min
- Instant Pot Chicken Recipe 20 min
- Instant Pot Hard Boiled Eggs Recipe 15 min
- Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes Recipe 22 min
- Instant Pot Pasta Recipe 22 min
- Instant Pot Pulled Pork Recipe 105 min
- Instant Pot Rice Recipe 14 min
- Instant Pot Risotto Recipe 25 min
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