This Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe is an exceptional dish that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Bursting with flavors, this chili combines tender beef short ribs and zesty Mexican chicken sausage, slow-cooked to perfection. The rich blend of spices and fire-roasted tomatoes creates a comforting bowl that will warm you from the inside out. Ideal for game days or family dinners, this recipe is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of short ribs and chicken sausage brings a depth of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing.
- Hearty and Filling: This chili is packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings for a personal touch.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze portions for later.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delicious chili, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: This provides ample space for simmering the chili, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even cooking.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions, peppers, and garlic quick and easy.

Ingredients
This spicy chili is loaded with tender beef short ribs simmered with Mexican chicken sausage, fire roasted tomatoes, and the perfect blend of spices, award winning!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoon 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
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 the short ribs with salt and pepper.
1. Sear them for about 1–2 minutes on each side until nicely browned.
2. Remove the short ribs from the pot and set them aside on a plate.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In the same pot, add chopped onion and jalapeno peppers.
1. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Sausage
Add chopped garlic and Mexican chicken sausage into the pot.
1. Cook for an additional 5 minutes while breaking up the sausage until it is mostly cooked through.
Step 4: Bloom the Spices
Stir in chili powder, Mexican oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
1. Cook for about one minute to let the spices release their flavors.
Step 5: Deglaze with Beef Stock
Pour in beef stock and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the reserved short ribs back into the pot along with fire-roasted tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.
1. Stir everything together.
Step 7: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the mixture to a boil.
1. Reduce heat; cover and let it simmer for about two hours until short ribs are tender.
Step 8: Thicken if Necessary
If your chili is too soupy:
1. Stir in corn meal.
2. Let it simmer until thickened.
Step 9: Serve
Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite toppings before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili!
How to Serve Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe
Serving Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili is an opportunity to showcase your creativity. This hearty dish pairs well with various toppings and sides that enhance its flavors, making every bowl a delightful experience.
Toppings
- Sour cream: A dollop adds creaminess and helps balance the spice.
- Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro provides a burst of flavor and color.
- Shredded cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully over the hot chili.
- Avocado slices: Creamy avocado complements the heat of the chili perfectly.
Accompaniments
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a classic pairing that absorbs the chili’s flavors.
- Tortilla chips: Crunchy chips add texture and are perfect for dipping.
- Rice: Serve over white or brown rice for a filling meal option.
Garnishes
- Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens up the chili’s rich flavors.
- Hot sauce: For those who like an extra kick, offer a variety of hot sauces.
How to Perfect Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe
To achieve the best Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili, consider these handy tips. Each step can make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
- Choose quality meat: Using high-quality short ribs enhances the overall richness of your chili.
- Let it simmer longer: Allowing more time for simmering develops deeper flavors; aim for at least two hours.
- Adjust spices gradually: Start with less chili powder, then add more to reach your desired heat level.
- Use homemade stock: For richer flavor, use homemade beef stock instead of store-bought.
- Balance acidity: If your chili tastes too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance it out.
Best Side Dishes for Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili can elevate your meal even further. Here are some fantastic options that complement this hearty chili.
- Cornbread: This sweet baked good is ideal for soaking up the chili’s sauce.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, spicy chili.
- Grilled corn on the cob: Sweet grilled corn adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with chili.
- Mexican rice: Flavored with tomatoes and spices, this rice complements the main dish beautifully.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole balances out the heat and adds richness to each bite.
- Stuffed peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice make a colorful side dish full of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to keep in mind:
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Skipping ingredient preparation: Always prepare your ingredients before cooking. This ensures everything is ready when you need it, preventing overcooking or burning.
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Overcrowding the pot: Avoid adding too many short ribs at once. Sear them in batches for a better crust and flavor development.
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Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your chili throughout the cooking process. Add salt, pepper, or hot sauce gradually to achieve your desired flavor.
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Rushing the simmering time: Patience is key! Allow the chili to simmer for at least 2 hours for tender short ribs and a rich flavor.
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Not using enough spices: Don’t be shy with your spices! A good chili relies on a bold blend of seasonings, so be generous with your chili powder and herbs.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Allow the chili to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Keep for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe
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Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish and cover. Heat for about 30-40 minutes, stirring halfway through.
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Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway until hot.
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Stovetop: Pour chili into a pot on medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually around 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe:
How can I make my Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili spicier?
To increase the heat level, add more jalapenos or use hotter peppers like serranos. You can also incorporate additional hot sauce or cayenne pepper during cooking.
Can I substitute other meats in this recipe?
Yes! You can swap out short ribs for beef chuck or even turkey if you prefer a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
What toppings go well with Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili?
Consider toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture.
How do I thicken my Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili?
If your chili is too soupy, stir in cornmeal or crushed tortillas. Let it simmer for a bit longer until it reaches your desired thickness.
Final Thoughts
This Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite beans or toppings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a cozy meal at home, this chili will surely impress!
Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili
Indulge in the hearty goodness of our Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe, a delightful blend of tender beef short ribs and zesty chicken sausage simmered to perfection. This chili is bursting with rich flavors from fire-roasted tomatoes and a harmonious mix of spices that will warm you from the inside out. Perfect for cozy nights in or lively gatherings, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also impresses with its depth of flavor. Customize it with your favorite toppings, and enjoy the comforting embrace of this delicious one-pot meal.
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1.5 pounds boneless short ribs (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 2 jalapeno peppers (chopped)
- 6 cloves garlic (chopped)
- 1 pound Mexican chicken sausage
- 1 cup beef stock
- 3 cans fire-roasted tomatoes (15 ounces each)
- 1 can black beans (15 ounces, drained)
- 1 can red kidney beans (15 ounces, drained)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder blend
- 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Hot sauce (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons cornmeal (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear for about 1–2 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onion and jalapeno peppers, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and Mexican chicken sausage; cook for another 5 minutes while breaking up the sausage.
- Stir in chili powder, Mexican oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper, cooking for about one minute to bloom the spices.
- Pour in beef stock to deglaze the pot, scraping any browned bits off the bottom.
- Return short ribs to the pot along with fire-roasted tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and hot sauce. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about two hours until short ribs are tender.
- If desired thickness isn’t achieved, stir in cornmeal and simmer until thickened.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg





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