Chili Parlor Chili is the kind of comfort food that brings warmth to your kitchen and joy to your table. This rich and hearty dish is packed with bold flavors, thanks to a wonderful blend of spices and the satisfying depth of beef. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, cozying up for a family dinner, or just craving a bowl of something delicious, this chili has you covered. With its hints of cocoa and the perfect balance of heat, you’ll definitely want to make this recipe part of your regular rotation.

What Goes into This Chili Parlor Chili

To whip up your own delightful pot of chili, here’s what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef (90% lean or 80% lean)
2 cups beef or chicken broth
1/2 cup tomato sauce or puree
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons chili flakes
2 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Cooking Chili Parlor Chili: Step by Step

Creating this delicious chili is as straightforward as it is rewarding. Follow these simple steps for a perfect pot:

Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes. Make sure to break up the meat as it cooks until it’s browned and crumbled.
Add the Liquids: Pour in the beef or chicken broth and tomato sauce. Stir well.
Spice It Up: Add the chili powder, cocoa powder, Worcestershire sauce, chili flakes, paprika, soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Mix everything thoroughly.
Simmer: Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Then, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and cook for 35 to 40 minutes. Be sure to stir frequently to keep it from sticking.
Season: After cooking, taste your chili and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.

The Best Way to Serve It

Chili Parlor Chili is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some delicious ideas:

Standard Bowl: Serve a generous scoop in a bowl, garnished with your favorite toppings. Sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped green onions all work well.
Chili Dog: Use the chili as a topping for hot dogs—simply dress them with chili and your favorite toppings.
Chili Nachos: Drizzle it over a plate of tortilla chips and sprinkle with cheese for a zesty nacho dish.
Accompaniment: Pair your chili with crusty bread or cornbread for a satisfying meal.

Expert Tips for Chili Parlor Chili

Make It Ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day! Make a batch in advance and refrigerate it overnight for the flavors to deepen.
Extra Vegetables: For added texture and nutrition, consider adding chopped bell peppers or beans to the mix.
Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the cayenne pepper and chili flakes, or if you like it hotter, add more in small increments until it reaches your desired spice level.

Chili Parlor Chili: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind the flavor might be a tad different.

Q: Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Brown the meat first, then add all the ingredients to a slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Q: How can I thicken my chili?
A: If your chili is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a bit longer. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the chili.

Don’t wait too long to enjoy this incredible Chili Parlor Chili! It’s easy to make, delicious to eat, and sure to become a family favorite. Grab your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and dive into the comforting flavors of this delightful dish!

Chili Parlor Chili

A rich and hearty chili packed with bold flavors from spices and beef, perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Total Time 55

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking
1 pound ground beef (90% lean or 80% lean) For the main protein

Liquids

2 cups beef or chicken broth For a rich base
1/2 cup tomato sauce or puree For added flavor

Spices

1 tablespoon chili powder For heat
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder Adds depth
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce Enhances flavor
2 teaspoons chili flakes For additional heat
2 teaspoons paprika For color and flavor
2 teaspoons soy sauce For umami
1 teaspoon onion powder For flavor
1 teaspoon garlic powder For flavor
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust for heat preference
to taste Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper Season to taste

Method

Cooking Instructions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks until it's browned and crumbled.
Pour in the beef or chicken broth and tomato sauce. Stir well.
Add the chili powder, cocoa powder, Worcestershire sauce, chili flakes, paprika, soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Mix everything thoroughly.
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat, cover the pot, and cook for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
After cooking, taste your chili and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.

Notes

Chili tastes even better the next day! Consider making a batch ahead of time. You can also add chopped bell peppers or beans for added texture. Adjust the heat by modifying the cayenne pepper and chili flakes as desired.