When it comes to comfort food that fuels your body, high protein chili is a standout. Packed with lean meats, beans, and bold spices, this hearty meal is perfect for cozy nights or weekly meal prep. Whether you’re looking to meet your macro goals or just want a flavorful, satisfying dish, this chili will hit the spot every time.

It comes together with minimal effort but delivers maximum reward. The blend of rich tomato base, tender beans, and protein-rich ground meat offers a warming bowl of goodness that keeps you full longer. It’s a meal that invites toppings, sides, and creative twists, but stands strong all on its own.

Why You’ll Love This High Protein Chili

This chili is an easy favorite because it’s nourishing and deeply satisfying. It stores like a dream, freezes well, and can be customized with different proteins like turkey, chicken, or plant-based options. The high protein content makes it ideal for post-workout recovery, family dinners, or even game day parties.

Best of all, it’s budget-friendly and makes a generous batch. You can spice it up or keep it mild, toss it over rice, use it as a baked potato topping, or enjoy it straight from the bowl. It’s the kind of recipe that adapts to your lifestyle without compromising on taste.

What Kind of Beans or Meat Should I Use?

You can go classic with kidney and black beans, or experiment with cannellini or pinto beans. When it comes to meat, lean ground beef gives that hearty richness, while ground turkey or chicken lightens things up without losing flavor. If you’re aiming for an entirely plant-based dish, swap the meat with lentils or a vegan ground meat alternative.

Ingredients for the High Protein Chili

Name: High Protein Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 pound ground turkey or lean ground beef; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with juices; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup low sodium chicken broth or water

This high protein chili is a nutritional powerhouse thanks to the carefully selected ingredients. Every component plays a key role in building flavor and boosting the protein count.

Ground turkey or lean ground beef
Kidney beans
Black beans
Diced tomatoes (with juices)
Tomato paste
Yellow onion
Garlic cloves
Bell pepper
Chili powder
Cumin
Paprika
Oregano
Salt & pepper
Olive oil
Low sodium chicken broth or water

How To Make the High Protein Chili

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté chopped onion and bell pepper until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Add ground turkey or beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the meat and veggies evenly. Let the spices bloom for 1 minute.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

Add diced tomatoes with juices, tomato paste, drained and rinsed beans, and the broth. Stir well to combine. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and let it cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. For a thicker chili, simmer longer. If you like it spicier, add a dash of cayenne or a chopped jalapeño.

How to Serve and Store High Protein Chili

This chili feeds about 6 hungry people comfortably, making it excellent for families or meal prepping. Serve it hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, avocado slices, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months—just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What to Serve With High Protein Chili?

Cornbread

A buttery slice of cornbread makes the perfect companion to soak up all that chili goodness.

Baked Sweet Potatoes

Top a fluffy sweet potato with a spoonful of chili for a nutrient-packed combo.

Rice or Quinoa

For extra volume and nutrients, serve your chili over a bowl of brown rice or quinoa.

Roasted Veggies

A side of roasted zucchini, cauliflower, or carrots brings balance and extra fiber.

Tortilla Chips

Crunchy tortilla chips are great for dipping and scooping up thick bites.

Avocado Salad

A light avocado and tomato salad complements the heat of the chili beautifully.

Grilled Cheese

Go classic with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich and a bowl of chili on the side.

Pickled Jalapeños

If you like it hot, tangy pickled jalapeños add a nice acidic punch.

Want More Cozy Dinner Ideas?

If hearty bowls of comfort are your thing, check out these cozy recipes too:

Try this Cajun Potato Soup for a smoky, spicy twist.
Dig into a cheesy skillet with Creamy Chicken and Broccoli.
Enjoy the sweet-spicy balance of Sweet Potato Curry.
Warm up with Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas for another high-protein winner.
Or lighten things up with the protein-packed Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s ready when the chili cravings hit.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you use turkey or beef? Did you sneak in any extras like corn or jalapeños? Let’s swap chili secrets in the comments.

Explore comforting bowls, nourishing ideas, and healthy weeknight wins on my Pinterest: Zoe Recipes on Pinterest

Conclusion

This high protein chili is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It hits every mark: easy, affordable, nutritious, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just meal prepping for the week, this is one chili that doesn’t disappoint.