Spicy Bison Chili Recipe

Sharing is caring!

I'm known for many things, my Bison Chili is just one of them. It's true, I've never won a chili cook-off contest with this recipe. But to be fair, I've never entered it in one either. This Bison Chili has it all, deep, rich flavor, Just the right amount of spice, and totally satisfying!

My Take on Bison Chili

Good homemade Bison Chili isn't difficult to make, you just need about an hour or two, and some simple ingredients.

But before we talk about the ingredients, let's talk about what to cook the bison chili in.

I prefer cooking my chili in a Dutch oven, instead of a crockpot. Cooking chili for an extended time (such as in a crockpot) breaks down the beans more than I like.

If you don't have a Dutch oven, I highly recommend this one: (Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, 6-Quart).

Chili Ingredients:

• 2 T. vegetable oil
• 1 lb. ground bison
• 1 medium onion diced
• 5 medium anaheim chilis diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. cumin powder
• 1 T. chili powder
• 1 T. smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
• 1/4 tsp. ground cloves
• 1 14 oz. can diced tomatoes
• 2 T. tomato paste
• 2 14 oz. cans chicken broth
• 1 can chipotle peppers (as needed)
• 2 15 oz. cans black beans

Chili Making Directions

• Heat oil in a 6-quart Dutch oven. Add ground meat, diced onion, peppers, and garlic.
• Cook until meat is browned, then and add salt and spices.
• Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Add sauce from the chipotle peppers can, one tablespoon at a time until you achieve the right spiciness. I almost used the whole can, but I'm a little crazy!
• Simmer over low heat for 30 minutes.
• Stir in the black beans, cover, and simmer for an additional 30 minutes, over low heat and enjoy!

Cook's Tips:

Although this is a "Bison Chili" recipe, you can easily use any other game meat, beef, or even turkey. I just happen to have a lifetime supply of bison in my freezer at the moment, thanks to my husband.

The other ingredients are flexible too! You can use any onions that you have on hand, (white, green onion, or shallots). The idea is to use up the ingredients that you have at home, not go shopping for more!

I used Anaheim chilis in this recipe because I have them growing in my garden. Feel free to use green peppers, poblanos, or whatever peppers you have. Finally, you can replace the black beans with great northern beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans.

What To Serve With Bison Chili? 

Although this chili is delicious enough to eat straight out of the pot, I recommend that you show some restraint!

Instead, why not serve it in a deep bowl, topped with shredded cheddar, crumbled queso fresco, or feta?

Diced onions, cilantro, or jalapeños are other topping options. To add some creaminess, consider a dollop of sour cream, or Greek yogurt (if you're health-conscious).

A side of tortilla chips is always a good idea too! I have even served it over Mexican rice! If by chance you end up with leftovers, serve it over some nachos. Trust me, you'll be everyone's hero!

You may also be interested in the following recipes: Gourmet Elk Burgers, Elk Jerky, and Buffalo Burgers.

Stay in touch with me through social media!

• Tried this recipe? Snap a picture and tag #hildaskitchenblog on Instagram. 
• Like my page on Facebook.
• Do you Pinterest? Pin & share this recipe!

If you love this recipe, please give it a 5-star rating!

Sharing is caring!