The Best Bison Chili You’ll Ever Make (According to My Dad)

6/9/20251 min read

This recipe is on repeat in our house the moment football season kicks off. It’s comforting, full of flavor, and exactly what you want simmering on the stove during fall and winter.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground bison

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 shallots, diced

  • ½ cup red onion

  • ½ white onion

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 jalapeño, minced (remove seeds for less heat)

  • 2 cans tomato paste

  • 1½ cups bone broth

  • 2 cans slow-roasted diced red tomatoes

  • 2 cans green chilies

  • ⅓ cup frozen yellow corn

  • 1 can kidney beans (rinsed and drained)

  • 1 can black beans (rinsed and drained)

  • Chili powder + chipotle powder (season with your heart) 💛

Directions:

  1. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.

  2. Add garlic, jalapeño, and shallots. Sauté until fragrant (about 2–3 mins).

  3. Stir in red and white onions. Cook another 3–4 minutes until softened.

  4. Add the ground bison and cook until browned and no longer pink.

  5. Pour in the bone broth and simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.

  6. Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, green chilies, beans, and corn.

  7. Season generously with chili powder and chipotle powder.

  8. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour—stirring occasionally.

  9. Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

Pro tip: The longer it simmers, the better it gets.

Why You’ll Love This Bison Chili:

  • Bison is lean yet rich – less greasy, but still incredibly satisfying

  • Big flavor payoff – chipotle + roasted tomatoes = smoky perfection

  • Hearty and wholesome – loaded with protein, fiber, and real ingredients

  • Perfect for leftovers – even better the next day

  • Freezer-friendly – batch it now, thank yourself later

Cozy Serving Ideas:

  • Top with shredded cheddar, a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, and green onions

  • Serve with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or crusty sourdough

  • Make a chili bar! Add toppings like avocado, jalapeños, chopped cilantro, hot sauce, or lime wedges

Whether you're cooking for Sunday dinner, meal prepping for the week, or throwing a chili night with friends, this Bison Chili is guaranteed to hit the spot.

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