• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • About Me
  • Dessert Recipes
    • Cookie Recipes
    • Dairy Free Desserts
    • Gluten Free Desserts
  • Portfolio
  • Work With Me
  • Resources

Cole In The Kitchen

menu icon
go to homepage
  • About Me
  • Dessert Recipes
    • Cookie Recipes
    • Dairy Free Desserts
    • Gluten Free Desserts
  • Portfolio
  • Work With Me
  • Resources
search icon
Homepage link
  • About Me
  • Dessert Recipes
    • Cookie Recipes
    • Dairy Free Desserts
    • Gluten Free Desserts
  • Portfolio
  • Work With Me
  • Resources
×

Home » Healthy Dinner Ideas » Gluten Free Chili

October 18, 2022 Healthy Dinner Ideas

Gluten Free Chili

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Gluten Free Chili is a healthy one pot meal you'll be making on repeat during these cold months. Simple and comforting, this recipe is easy, hearty, and packed with protein. Both kids and adults love this flavorful, healthy meal.

gluten free chili in white bowls topped with avocado and cilantro.
Jump to:
  • Is Chili Gluten Free?
  • Why You'll Love This Gluten Free Recipe
  • Ingredient Notes And Substitutions
  • Kitchen Tools You'll Need
  • How To Make Gluten Free Chili
  • Gluten Free Chili Variations
  • Healthy Chili Toppings
  • Expert Tips
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Storing And Reheating Leftovers
  • Like This Recipe? Then Try These!
  • Did you make this chili?
  • Gluten Free Chili
  • Check Out Latest Posts

Once the cold weather starts, I immediately start craving all the healthy, comforting meals. As soon as I made this gluten free chili, I knew I had to share it with you.

This recipe is creamy, rich, super flavorful, full of veggies, and packed with protein. It's made with simple ingredients like canned beans, canned corn, onions, spices, and, while I use ground beef, you can easily substitute with ground turkey or chicken.

What I especially love about this recipe is how healthy it is and how everyone always loves it. Even my one year old nephew, who demolished his own bowl!

Pair with healthy cornbread, and you've got the perfect, comforting, cold weather meal. Comment below your thoughts, I can't wait to hear how much you love this recipe!

Make sure to also check out these delicious gluten free meatballs for another healthy dinner recipe!

Is Chili Gluten Free?

Most homemade chilis are naturally gluten free, however you do need to watch out for ones that contain beer or add Worcestershire sauce because those ingredients are not gluten free. Additionally, most store bought chili seasonings contain wheat or may be cross contaminated so stick to a homemade seasoning.

Why You'll Love This Gluten Free Recipe

  • This healthy chili is both gluten free and dairy free
  • It's hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor
  • Gluten free chili is filling and satisfying with over 25 grams of protein per serving!
  • Simple and easy to make in just one pot
  • It's a great recipe to meal prep for quick and healthy lunches or dinners
  • This hearty meal is the best cozy, cold weather dinner
  • In a rush? Then try this 20 minute, 5 Ingredient Chili!

Ingredient Notes And Substitutions

ingredients i gluten free chili labeled with white text boxes and black letters.
  • Ground beef: I prefer to use lean ground beef with a fat ratio of 93/7. You can substitute with ground pork, turkey, or chicken if you prefer.
  • Onion: I use red onion in the chili as well as a garnish, but yellow or white onions will work
  • Poblano pepper: The poblano is like a spicier green bell pepper. You could use bell pepper or a seeded jalapeno instead
  • Garlic: If you don't have fresh, you can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • Black beans: It's easier to buy a can of black beans rather than cook them yourself. If you don't like them or don't have any, any type of canned bean can be substituted
  • Corn: Fresh, canned, or frozen will all work
  • Diced tomatoes: This helps make up the base of the chili. I prefer to use fire roasted diced tomatoes, but plain or ones with green chilis are also good
  • Beef broth: If you're not using beef, I recommend using a broth that it's the same family as your meat. So chicken broth for ground turkey or chicken, or veggie broth for a vegetarian version
  • Spices: This is where the chili gets its rich depth of flavor. I use salt, chili powder, oregano, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of nutmeg for warmth. Do not use store bought chili seasoning unless it is certified gluten free, as most contain some form of wheat.

Kitchen Tools You'll Need

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Can opener
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

How To Make Gluten Free Chili

  1. Place a large pot or Dutch oven on the stove and turn the heat to medium
  2. Add the ground beef into the pot, break it up with a wooden spoon, and cook for 3-4 minutes until no longer pink
  3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked beef and set aside. Add the diced onion and poblano pepper into the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft. Add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute
  4. Next, add the beef back into the pot along with the prepared black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and spices
  5. Stir everything well and bring to a simmer. Once it's simmering turn the heat down to low and allow the healthy chili to simmer for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent any sticking on the bottom
  6. After simmering, turn the heat off, spoon into bowls and garnish as desired
ground feed browned in white pot.
Brown the ground beef
sauteed onion and green pepper in white pot.
Sautee the veggies next
healthy chili in a white pot.
Add the rest of the ingredients and simmer for 30 minutes

Gluten Free Chili Variations

  • The 'leftovers' chili: Chili is a great way to use up leftover chicken or turkey from the holidays. You'll need about 3 cups of meat for one batch of chili. You can also add leftover squash, potatoes, or other veggies.
  • Ground turkey chili: Use 1 pound of ground turkey in place of the beef
  • Ground chicken chili: If you need a low fat version, use 1 pound of lean ground turkey instead of ground beef
  • Spicy chili: If you like your chili spicy, add in ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • Vegetarian chili: Replace the meat with a can of pinto beans and use veggie broth instead of beef broth.

Healthy Chili Toppings

This gluten free chili is delicious all on its own, but even better with toppings! I love to add shredded cheese, chopped jalapeno, and Greek yogurt for creaminess. Sliced avocado, crushed corn chips, and fresh cilantro are great too!

Just be sure not to skip the delicious homemade cornbread!

healthy chili in white bowl with sour cream, jalapenos, and avocado slices.

Expert Tips

  • Sautee the veggies: Cook the onion and poblano pepper in the beef fat for added flavor
  • Add more vegetables: If you want, you can add in quick cooking veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and celery to boost the nutrient value
  • Simmer: It's tempting to want to eat it right away, but letting the gluten free chili simmer for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and develop
  • Low fat or vegetarian: For a lower fat version, substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken. Better yet, skip the meat all together and add in an extra can of pinto beans.
  • Season to taste: The amount of spices in the recipe card below is a general guide. ALWAYS season your food so it tastes good to you.
  • Meal prep: You can double the recipe or make this healthy chili ahead of time and store in the fridge for a yummy meal prep option.
  • Serve side dishes: Chili is a healthy one pot meal, but serve with cornbread and salad for a more balanced dinner

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure you use a big enough pot for 2 portions.

Is this chili also dairy free?

Yes, there is no dairy in the actual chili. Just skip topping with sour cream or shredded cheese if you have a dairy intolerance or allergy.

Do I have to use ground beef?

No, this recipe also works with ground chicken, ground turkey, or even ground pork.

What do I serve with gluten free chili?

You can serve it with gluten free cornbread, gluten free dinner rolls, corn chips with guacamole, roasted potatoes, or just a fresh garden salad.

Can I freeze leftover chili?

Yes! Chili is a great recipe to make a double batch of, eat one immediately, and freeze another one for later use.
Simply store it in a freezer safe bag or container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight, then heat, and serve.

Storing And Reheating Leftovers

Storing: You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing: You are also able to freeze leftover chili by placing it into a freezer safe bag, getting as much air out as possible, and storing in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, scoop your desired portion into a microwave safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 30 second intervals until it's hot enough for you.

overhead shot of two bowls of gluten free chili with avocado and lime slices.

Like This Recipe? Then Try These!

  • 5 ingredient chili
  • Air fryer chicken sausage with veggies
  • Gluten free lasagna soup
  • Gluten free meatloaf
  • Paleo air fryer orange chicken

Did you make this chili?

If so, I would appreciate you leaving a comment and star rating down below. Additionally, follow me on Instagram and tag me or use #incoleskitchen so I can see what you made and share it.

Print

Gluten Free Chili

gluten free chili in white bowls topped with avocado and cilantro.
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 1 reviews

Gluten Free Chili is a healthy one pot meal you'll be making on repeat during these cold months. Simple and comforting, this recipe is easy, hearty, and packed with protein. Pair with cornbread for a flavorful, healthy meal both kids and adults love.

  • Author: Nicole Radcliffe
  • Prep Time: 15 Minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 Minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 Servings 1x
  • Category: Chili
  • Method: Stove Top
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • ½ cup diced red onion + extra for garnish
  • ½ of a poblano pepper, diced small
  • 3 cloves of minced garlic
  • 1 15 ounce can of black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 15 ounce can of corn drained and rinsed (or 2 cups fresh/frozen corn)
  • 1 15 ounce can of fire roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1 4 ounce can of tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 ½ teaspoons oregano
  • 1 ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Place a large pot or Dutch oven on the stove and turn the heat up to medium
  2. Add the ground beef into the pot, break it up with a wooden spoon, and cook for 3-4 minutes until no longer pink
  3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked beef into a bowl and set aside. Add the diced red onion and poblano pepper into the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft.  Next, add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly so it doesn't burn.
  4. Now, add the beef back into the pot along with the prepared black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, salt, oregano, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and ground nutmeg.
  5. Stir everything well and bring to a simmer
  6. Once simmering, turn the heat down to low and allow the chili to simmer gently for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent any sticking on the bottom
  7. After about 30 minutes, turn the heat off, spoon into bowls and garnish as desired

Notes

  • Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken
  • Use leftover cooked turkey or chicken instead of the beef. You'll need about 3-4 cups
  • If using fresh or frozen corn, use 2 cups
  • For a spicier chili, add in ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • Always season to taste
  • Double the recipe and freeze half for later use
  • Leftovers last for up to 5 days if stored properly in the fridge in an airtight container, making this a great recipe to meal prep for quick, healthy lunches

Keywords: chili gluten free, healthy chili, gluten-free chili recipe

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag me — I can't wait to see what you've made!

Check Out Latest Posts

strawberry matcha latte in a glass on parchment paper.
Strawberry Matcha Latte
oat milk hot chocolate topped with toasted marshmallows in a white mug.
Oat Milk Hot Chocolate

More Healthy Dinner Ideas

  • Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
  • Gluten Free Bread Crumbs
  • shrimp and broccoli pasta in a white serving dish on a stripped napkin.
    Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta
  • Baked Chicken Leg Quarters

Reader Interactions

Comments

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe rating ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆

  1. Chiara says

    October 25, 2022 at 7:17 pm

    So delicious!! Definitely a solid recipe that my family will be making on repeat this season! It’s husband and toddler approved too!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Nicole Radcliffe says

      October 26, 2022 at 3:22 pm

      Oh yay! Love to hear that the whole family loved it!

      Reply

Primary Sidebar

girl in white shirt wearing brown hat holding a camera.

Hey, I'm Nicole! A self-taught baker, who loves to share classic desserts with a modern twist. Most recipes can easily be made gluten free or dairy free so there's something for everyone to enjoy!

More about me →

Popular

  • blueberry lemon cookies on parchment paper with a lemon glaze.
    Lemon Blueberry Cookies
  • small batch of lemon curd in a glass jar.
    Easy Small Batch Lemon Curd
  • banana bread with blackberries sliced on a black wire rack.
    Blackberry Banana Bread
  • patriotic cupcakes on a metal rack on a white background.
    Patriotic Cupcakes

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • About

Keep In Touch!

  • Sign Up! for emails and updates
  • Find us on Pinterest
  • Find us on Facebook
  • Find us on Instagram

Contact

  • Work with me!

Copyright © 2020 Brunch Pro on the Brunch Pro Theme