Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe is one of my absolute favorites. It’s packed with tender beef short ribs and flavorful Mexican chicken sausage, simmered to perfection with fire-roasted tomatoes and a delightful mix of spices. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this chili brings everyone together around the table.

What makes this recipe special is not just its delicious taste but also how comforting it feels on chilly days. The rich flavors meld beautifully as it simmers, filling your home with an inviting aroma that makes it hard to resist. So grab your pot, and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this chili comes together without fuss.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves a hearty bowl of chili! It’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and reheat for a quick dinner on busy nights.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of short ribs, chicken sausage, and spices creates a rich and satisfying dish.
• Topping options galore: Customize each bowl with your favorite toppings for an extra touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking up this chili is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that bring out the best flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chili

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1.5 pounds boneless short ribs (cut into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes))
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2 jalapeno peppers (chopped (use serranos for hotter, or more to taste))
• 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 (I’m using a hot New Mexican 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 chili recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or beef in place of chicken sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or corn for added texture and nutrition.
• Change the beans: Try using pinto beans or chickpeas if you’re looking to switch things up.
• Spice it up: Adjust the heat by adding more jalapenos or even some diced habanero peppers if you dare!

How to Make Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Short Ribs

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season those beautiful short rib pieces with salt and pepper before searing them for about 1-2 minutes per side. It’ll give them that lovely brown crust we all crave! Don’t overcrowd the pot; work in batches if needed. Once done, transfer them to a plate.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Peppers

Next up, add your chopped onion and jalapeno peppers to the pot. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they soften—this step helps release their natural sweetness which balances out the spices beautifully.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Chicken Sausage

Now it’s time for garlic magic! Toss in those chopped cloves along with the Mexican chicken sausage. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes, breaking up the sausage as it cooks. This will infuse all those delicious flavors into your base.

Step 4: Spice It Up!

Stir in your chili powder blend, Mexican oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Let those spices bloom by cooking them for about a minute—this step enhances their flavor tremendously.

Step 5: Deglaze

Pour in the beef stock next! Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of your pan; these bits are packed with flavor that will elevate your chili.

Step 6: Combine All Ingredients

Add back in those reserved short ribs along with fire-roasted tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Give everything a good stir until combined.

Step 7: Simmer Away

Bring your chili mixture to a boil before reducing the heat. Cover it up and let it simmer away for about 2 hours—or longer if you want those short ribs to be melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 8: Thicken if Needed

If after simmering you find your chili is too soupy for your liking, simply stir in some cornmeal to thicken it up while continuing to simmer.

Step 9: Serve It Up!

Ladle that delicious chili into bowls and top with all your favorite toppings—think cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro!

And there you have it! A comforting bowl of Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili that’s sure to become a cherished part of your meal rotation. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe

Making this chili is a joy, and with a few pro tips, you can take your dish to the next level!

• Sear the meat properly: Searing the short ribs creates a delicious crust that enhances the flavor of the chili. It adds depth to every bite and helps develop those rich, savory notes.
• Layer your spices: Adding spices at different stages allows their flavors to bloom fully. This technique ensures a well-rounded taste throughout the chili, making each spoonful delightful.
• Adjust the heat to your liking: If you enjoy a spicier kick, feel free to add more jalapenos or even some crushed red pepper flakes. Tailoring the heat level will make this dish perfect for your palate.
• Let it simmer longer: While two hours is recommended, if you have more time, let it simmer longer! The flavors meld beautifully over time, and the short ribs will become incredibly tender.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings! Avocado, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream can brighten up the chili and add freshness.

How to Serve Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe

Presenting your chili can be just as fun as cooking it! Here are some great ideas on how to serve this hearty dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle them on top for a fresh crunch that complements the richness of the chili.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado adds a wonderful texture and balances the spiciness beautifully.
• Shredded cheese: A bit of shredded cheese can enhance flavor and provide a comforting creaminess as it melts into the warm chili.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread pairs perfectly with chili. Its crumbly texture soaks up all that delicious sauce!
• Rice or Quinoa: Serving chili over rice or quinoa makes for a filling meal while adding an extra layer of heartiness.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are fantastic for scooping up chili or enjoying on their own with some salsa.
• Simple salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warming chili.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll not only create an award-winning Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili but also impress everyone at your dinner table! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

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 it’s also easy to store and reheat. Here’s how to keep your delicious chili fresh for future meals.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the chili cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, try to remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other types of sausage in this Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage or any other meat alternatives that you prefer. Just ensure they are cooked through before adding them to the pot.

How spicy is the Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Using jalapenos adds a mild kick, while serranos will give it more heat. You can also add more hot sauce or chili powder for an extra zing!

Can I make this Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! After browning your short ribs and sautéing your vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the short ribs are tender.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy, perfect for chilly nights or gatherings with family and friends. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings or spices—make it your own! Happy cooking!