Description
This Quickest Chili for Two is a simple, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Made with ground meat, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and a blend of spices, it’s a hearty and flavorful chili that comes together in under 20 minutes on the stovetop. With customizable spice levels and minimal ingredients, it’s an ideal recipe for a cozy dinner for two.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Oil
- 1 tsp. olive oil
- ½ lb. ground meat (chicken or beef)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 3 tsp. chili powder, divided
- ¼ tsp. salt
- A pinch or two cayenne pepper (optional)
Liquids and Canned Ingredients
- ½ cup salsa
- 1 (14 oz.) can diced tomatoes, with the juices
- 1 (15 oz.) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Instructions
- Heat the Oil and Brown Meat: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the ground meat along with garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and salt. Stir and cook, breaking the meat apart occasionally, until it is fully browned and cooked through, about 4 to 6 minutes.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the remaining 2 teaspoons of chili powder, salsa, diced tomatoes (including juices), kidney beans, and cayenne pepper if using. Increase the heat to medium-high. Cover the saucepan to allow flavors to meld.
- Simmer and Heat Through: Cook the chili, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until it’s bubbly and heated through, about 4 to 6 minutes.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the chili and add additional salt, pepper, or hot sauce as desired. Serve hot and enjoy your quick and flavorful chili perfect for two.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or a plant-based ground meat for a different protein option.
- If you prefer a spicier chili, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce.
- For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce excess liquid.
- This recipe pairs well with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: quick chili recipe, chili for two, easy stovetop chili, ground meat chili, simple chili, weeknight dinner
