Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe is not just any chili; it’s full of rich flavors and hearty goodness. The combination of tender short ribs and zesty Mexican chicken sausage makes this dish a beloved favorite in my home. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this chili is sure to impress everyone at the table.

What I love about this recipe is how it brings people together. It’s perfect for chilly evenings when all you want is something comforting and delicious. Plus, it’s an easy one-pot meal that allows you to spend more time with your loved ones rather than slaving away in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick prep time: With only 15 minutes of prep, you can have dinner ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: This chili packs flavor without being too spicy, making it suitable for everyone.
• Make-ahead convenience: It’s even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Flexible ingredients: You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.
• Nourishing comfort food: Hearty and satisfying, this chili will fill you up and keep you warm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful chili. You might already have some of these in your pantry!

For the Chili

• 2 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1.5 pounds boneless short ribs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2 jalapeno peppers (chopped; use serranos for hotter)
• 6 cloves garlic (chopped; adjust to taste)
• 1 pound Mexican chicken sausage
• 1 cup beef stock
• 3 15-ounce cans fire roasted tomatoes
• 1 15-ounce can black beans (drained)
• 1 15-ounce can red kidney beans (drained)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder blend
• 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Hot sauce (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons corn meal (optional) (for thickening)

For Serving

Your favorite toppings like cheese, avocado, or cilantro work beautifully here!

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or lean beef instead of short ribs for a lighter version.
• Add veggies: Toss in bell peppers or corn for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace meat with lentils or more beans for a hearty plant-based option.
• Spice it up: Add more jalapeños or even chipotle peppers for an extra kick.

How to Make Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Short Ribs

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season your short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear them for 1-2 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful brown crust. This step enhances the flavor by creating those tasty browned bits that will enrich your chili later on.

Step 2: Soften the Veggies

Next, add the chopped onion and jalapeno peppers to the pot. Cook them for about five minutes until they soften. Softening releases their natural sweetness and creates a flavorful base for your chili.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Sausage

Now it’s time to add the garlic and Mexican chicken sausage! Cook everything together for another five minutes while breaking up the sausage as it cooks through. This brings out all those wonderful flavors and aromas.

Step 4: Bloom the Spices

Stir in your chili powder, Mexican oregano, cumin, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Allow everything to cook for one minute so that the spices bloom—this is where all those lovely flavors really come alive!

Step 5: Add Stock & Deglaze

Pour in the beef stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These little morsels are packed with flavor, so don’t leave them behind!

Step 6: Combine All Ingredients

Return those delicious short ribs back into the pot along with fire roasted tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Give everything a good stir—it’s starting to look delightful already!

Step 7: Simmer Away

Bring your chili to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover it up and let it simmer gently for about two hours—or longer if possible—until those short ribs become melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 8: Thicken If Necessary

If you find your chili is too soupy at any point, don’t worry! Just stir in some cornmeal and let it simmer until thickened.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your chili into bowls and top with all your favorite toppings. Gather your friends and family around because this bowl of warmth is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe

Making chili can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few pro tips up your sleeve to take it to the next level!

• Sear the meat well: Taking the time to sear the short ribs creates a beautiful crust that adds depth of flavor to your chili. This caramelization enhances the overall taste and richness of the dish.

• Adjust spice levels: Everyone’s palate is different! Start with less chili powder or jalapeños, then gradually add more as you taste. This way, you can customize the heat level to suit your preference.

• Let it simmer longer: If you have time, allowing your chili to simmer for longer than 2 hours can deepen the flavors even further. The longer cook time helps meld all those delicious ingredients together.

• Thicken smartly: Instead of just cornmeal, consider using crushed or torn corn tortillas as a thickening agent. They dissolve beautifully and enhance the texture while adding an extra layer of flavor.

• Save leftovers: Chili usually tastes even better the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat for a quick meal that’s packed with flavor.

How to Serve Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe

Serving this hearty chili is just as fun as making it! A warm bowl of chili topped with delicious garnishes can make for a perfect cozy meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness and a hint of freshness that complements the spices beautifully.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides creamy richness that balances out the spice.
• Shredded cheese: Sprinkle on some shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack for an extra layer of indulgence and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This sweet and buttery bread pairs perfectly with spicy chili, providing a delightful contrast in flavor and texture.
• Avocado salad: A fresh avocado salad with lime dressing brings a refreshing element to your meal, cutting through the richness of the chili.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up chili or enjoying on their own as a side snack.
• Rice or quinoa: Serve your chili over rice or quinoa for added heartiness and to soak up every last bit of that flavorful broth.

Now that you’re armed with these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to whip up this short rib and chicken sausage chili recipe. Enjoy every tasty bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe is perfect for meal prep! It’s a hearty dish that flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day. Here are some tips to ensure you enjoy every last bite.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through (about 10-15 minutes).
• You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I make this Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chili tastes even better when made a day in advance, allowing all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

What can I serve with Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe?

Consider pairing this chili with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad. Toppings like avocado, cheese, or fresh cilantro also elevate the flavors!

How spicy is this Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your taste. You can add more jalapeños or hot sauce if you prefer it spicier!

Can I use other types of beans in this chili recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap out the black beans or kidney beans for your favorite varieties—such as pinto beans or chickpeas—depending on what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

I’m so glad you took the time to explore this Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe! It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to warm hearts and bellies alike. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings and spices—this chili is all about making it your own. Happy cooking!