There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of hearty, slow-cooked chili—especially when it features rich, smoky brisket as the star ingredient. This brisket chili recipe takes traditional chili to the next level, combining tender beef brisket with bold spices, savory beans, and a tomato base that simmers into perfection. Whether you’ve got leftover smoked brisket from a BBQ or you’re starting fresh, this recipe is a flavor-packed crowd-pleaser perfect for cozy dinners, tailgate parties, or any time you crave a filling, satisfying meal. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the best Texas-style brisket chili, complete with tips for variations, serving ideas, and storage.
Ingredients for Brisket Chili
To make this brisket chili recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs cooked brisket (leftover or smoked), chopped or shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. You can also swap in other beans or add corn for extra texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Brisket Chili
- Prepare the Brisket
If you’re using leftover brisket, make sure it’s chopped or shredded into bite-sized pieces. If starting with fresh brisket, cook it low and slow beforehand—either smoked, braised, or oven-roasted until tender. The goal is to have juicy, flavorful meat that will hold up during a long simmer.
- Build the Flavor Base
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Toast the spices for 30 seconds to release their aroma, then add the chopped brisket. Stir everything together so the brisket is coated in the spice mixture.
- Simmer the Chili
Pour in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir in the kidney beans and black beans, then bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together, and the brisket becomes even more tender. If using a crockpot, you can transfer everything and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Serve and Garnish
Once the chili has thickened and the flavors are fully developed, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot in bowls, topped with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. This brisket chili pairs perfectly with cornbread, tortilla chips, or steamed rice for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Brisket Chili
- For a smoky depth of flavor, smoked brisket is ideal, but even oven-roasted brisket will shine when simmered with spices.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered longer or mash some of the beans for natural thickening. For thinner chili, add more broth.
- Spice level is adjustable—dial it up with more cayenne or fresh jalapeños, or keep it mild by reducing chili powder.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Variations on Brisket Chili Recipe
There are many ways to customize this brisket chili recipe depending on your preferences or what you have on hand. For a smoked brisket chili, use brisket straight from the smoker and add a dash of liquid smoke for extra intensity. Want a crockpot brisket chili? After sautéing the onions, garlic, and spices, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. If you’re working with leftover brisket, this recipe is a great way to repurpose meat into a whole new dish. You can also experiment with different beans, add corn or bell peppers, or stir in a spoonful of cocoa powder or dark chocolate for an earthy richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 3-2-1 rule is a popular smoking method, often used for ribs, but some adapt it for brisket to manage cooking time and tenderness. It refers to smoking meat 3 hours unwrapped, then 2 hours wrapped in foil, and 1 hour unwrapped again with optional sauce or rest time. While not traditional for brisket, some pitmasters use a modified version to ensure the brisket stays juicy and tender—perfect for recipes like brisket chili where moisture and flavor are key.
Yes, leftover brisket is ideal for chili. It adds rich, smoky flavor and cuts down on prep time. Simply chop or shred the brisket and add it during the simmering process. Using leftovers transforms your meat into a whole new, hearty dish while reducing food waste—a win-win for your kitchen and your taste buds.
Many cooks swear by a secret ingredient to elevate chili flavor. Common “secret” additions include a spoonful of cocoa powder or dark chocolate for depth, a splash of beer or coffee for richness, or a bit of apple cider vinegar or lime juice for brightness. In a brisket chili recipe, smoked brisket itself is a flavor bomb, but adding chipotle peppers in adobo or bourbon can create an unforgettable twist.
For traditional chili, chuck roast or ground beef is often used due to its marbling and flavor. However, for a next-level chili experience, brisket is king. It offers deep, beefy richness, especially when smoked or slow-cooked. Whether you use fresh brisket or leftovers, it adds texture and complexity that elevate your chili beyond the basics.
Let’s try it
This brisket chili recipe is a bold, hearty twist on classic chili that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking rotation. Whether you’re making it from leftover smoked brisket or crafting it from scratch, the depth of flavor, tender meat, and warming spices make it a go-to comfort food. Customize it to suit your taste, top it with your favorite garnishes, and serve it at your next gathering or quiet night in. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your version in the comments or tag us on social media—let’s see your brisket chili creations!
More
For more flavor-packed recipes, explore our Smoked Boneless Chicken Thighs for another smoky meat favorite or try the tangy and bold Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce as a unique topping for your brisket chili. If you’re interested in hearty, beef-centric dishes, check out the rich and satisfying Beef Shoulder Steak for your next dinner idea. To elevate your cooking with savory flavors, our guide to Umami Sauce offers tips to enhance depth in chili and beyond. Additionally, for expert advice on smoking brisket and chili spices, visit Serious Eats or Texas Monthly BBQ for trusted techniques and BBQ insights. These resources will help you take your brisket chili—and all your BBQ dishes—to the next level.