Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, this Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe is just what you need! This hearty chili is packed with tender beef short ribs, zesty Mexican chicken sausage, and a delightful mix of spices. It’s one of those recipes that brings everyone together—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The flavors meld perfectly as it simmers away, making your kitchen smell absolutely divine!

What makes this chili extra special is not just its incredible taste but also its flexibility. You can whip it up in advance and let it sit on the stove to develop even more flavor. Trust me, your loved ones will be begging for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and filling: This chili is loaded with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying meal for all.
• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can have this dish ready without breaking a sweat.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze some for later!
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love this flavorful chili, making it a win for everyone at the dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making this recipe approachable and delicious. Gather these items to get started on your comforting bowl of chili:

For the Chili

• 2 tablespoons 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; or more 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 – or use crushed or torn corn tortillas)
• Your favorite toppings for serving

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: You can use turkey or beef sausage instead of chicken sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini to boost the nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more jalapenos or even a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Change up the beans: Use chickpeas or pinto beans in place of black or kidney beans for a twist.

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 before adding them to the pot. Searing them for 1-2 minutes per side creates a beautiful brown crust that enhances their flavor. If needed, do this in batches so they don’t overcrowd the pot. Once browned, remove them to a plate.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Next, add the chopped onion and jalapeno peppers to the pot. Cooking these for about 5 minutes will soften them up nicely. The aroma will start filling your kitchen—it’s such an inviting smell!

Step 3: Cook Chicken Sausage

Now it’s time to add garlic and Mexican chicken sausage. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes while breaking up the sausage with a spatula. This step is crucial because you want the sausage cooked through so that its flavors meld into the chili.

Step 4: Add Spices

Stir in your chili powder blend, Mexican oregano, cumin, along with salt and pepper to taste. Cooking these spices for about a minute allows their flavors to bloom beautifully, giving your chili that rich depth it deserves.

Step 5: Incorporate Beef Stock

Pour in the beef stock next, scraping up any browned bits stuck at the bottom of the pot. These bits are full of flavor!

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Return those reserved short ribs back into the pot along with fire-roasted tomatoes, drained black beans, red kidney beans, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 7: Simmer Away

Bring your chili to a boil before reducing heat. Cover and let it simmer gently for about 2 hours—or until those short ribs are melt-in-your-mouth tender! Feel free to simmer longer if needed; good things take time!

Step 8: Thicken if Desired

If you find your chili too soupy at any point, simply stir in cornmeal or crushed tortillas for thickness—this gives it an extra comforting texture.

Step 9: Serve with Toppings

Finally, ladle out generous portions into bowls and top with all your favorite toppings—cheese, avocado slices, fresh cilantro—you name it! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe

Making a delicious chili can be simple and rewarding! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili is bursting with flavor and texture.

• Choose the right meat: Using boneless short ribs adds a rich, beefy flavor and tender texture that makes this chili stand out. The combination with chicken sausage offers a delightful twist while keeping it lean.

• Don’t rush the searing: Take your time when searing the short ribs. Achieving a nice brown crust not only enhances the flavor but also adds depth to the overall dish as those browned bits infuse into the chili.

• Adjust the heat: Feel free to customize the spiciness by using different types of peppers or adjusting the amount of jalapeños. This way, you can create a chili that’s just right for your taste buds!

• Let it simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer for longer than two hours will deepen the flavors even more. If time allows, consider letting it cook on low for an extra hour—your patience will pay off!

• Incorporate toppings: Adding toppings like avocado, cilantro, or shredded cheese can elevate your chili experience. They provide fresh flavors and textures that complement the hearty base.

How to Serve Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe

Serving your Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili is part of the joy of enjoying this dish. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some ideas for presentation.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: This herb adds a burst of freshness and color that brightens up each bowl.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of creaminess balances out the spices beautifully.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado brings richness and pairs wonderfully with spicy flavors.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread makes for an excellent side that complements the heat of the chili perfectly.
• Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice serves as a neutral base that absorbs all those delicious chili flavors.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips add a delightful textural contrast, making them perfect for dipping into your hearty chili.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens tossed in a vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to this rich dish.

Enjoy every spoonful of your homemade Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili! It’s sure to warm both your heart and stomach.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but you can also make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious chili:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and type of dish for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe that can help you enjoy your cooking experience even more!

Can I use different types of meat in this Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe?

Yes! While this recipe features short ribs and chicken sausage, you can experiment with other meats if desired. Ground turkey or beef could work well as substitutes.

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

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The jalapeño peppers add a nice kick, but you can use milder peppers or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder chili.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the short ribs and chicken sausage with plant-based meat alternatives like lentils or mushrooms, and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock for a delicious vegetarian version.

What toppings do you recommend for this chili?

Some great toppings include chopped cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese (or dairy-free options), sour cream (or vegan sour cream), and crispy tortilla strips. Customize it to your liking!

Final Thoughts

This Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe is truly special—it’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, I’m sure it will become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!