How to Thicken Chili

Chili is a beloved comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners, game day feasts, or just when you're craving something hearty. But when your chili turns out a bit watery, it can feel like it's missing that desired richness. So, how do you make chili thicker without losing flavor?

Thick chili doesn’t just look appetizing—it’s more satisfying, and stays warm longer. Whether you’re working with a classic beef chili or a vegetarian variation, getting that perfect thick consistency adds depth and makes each spoonful more delightful. Plus, it pairs beautifully with tasty sides like Pillsbury™ Biscuits. In this guide, we'll explore various methods to achieve the perfect texture. Whether you’re a chili enthusiast or just looking for a quick fix to save your dish, you'll find easy and effective techniques here.

Methods for Thickening Chili

1. Simmer Uncovered

One of the simplest ways to get a thicker chili is to let it simmer uncovered for a little longer. By doing this, excess liquid evaporates, and your flavors intensify. Plus, it allows all the spices and ingredients to meld beautifully over time. This method is great because it doesn’t involve adding extra ingredients but allows the flavors to truly shine, like in our Easy Homemade Chili recipe.

• Instructions: Once your chili is fully cooked, remove the lid and continue to simmer the pot on low heat for an additional 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Want even more thickness? Simmer for longer! Be sure to watch the consistency closely for it to reach the texture you want.

2. Stir in Cornstarch

When you’re short on time and need thicker chili fast, cornstarch is your go-to ingredient. It’s a powerful thickener that won’t affect the taste of your dish. Because cornstarch doesn’t alter flavor, it’s perfect for keeping your chili rich without adding any unusual aftertastes. This technique works well when making White Chicken Chili.

• Instructions:

1. Combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water in a small bowl and mix; this will create what is called a slurry.
2. Gradually add the mixture to your simmering chili while stirring constantly.
3. Let the chili cook for a few minutes until it reaches the desired thickness.

3. Add Flour

Masa harina a finely ground corn flour is a favorite for thickening chili, particularly in Mexican-style chilis. Not only does it thicken up your dish, but it adds a subtle, earthy sweetness that enhances the chili’s flavor.

• Instructions: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of masa harina into your chili and let it cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add Mashed Beans

Beans not only add more texture and body to chili but also serve as an excellent natural thickener. Plus, they offer a protein and fiber boost, making your meal even more nutritious! This method is perfect for those looking to add both texture and nutritional benefits to their dish.

• Instructions: Mash 1 cup of cooked beans (use a fork or potato masher) and stir them into your chili. Allow the chili to simmer for a little longer to incorporate.

5. Boost Flavor & Thickness with Tomato Paste

Tomato paste is another go-to thickening agent that adds a bolder tomato flavor while keeping your chili dense. It can easily balance out watery chili without altering its fundamental taste too much. This method works especially well for tomato-based chili recipes, adding both thickness and flavor such as Southwestern Beef Chili with Corn.

• Instructions: Add 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste to your chili, stirring well to combine. Simmer for about 10 minutes to let it fully integrate.

6. Instant Potato Flakes

It may sound unconventional, but instant potato flakes dissolve swiftly into chili and provide thickness without being too obvious. Plus, they introduce a slight creaminess that can be a nice complement to those bold spices. Though subtle in flavor, they’re great for a quick thickening solution, especially in a pinch.

• Instructions: Stir just a few tablespoons of potato flakes into your bubbling chili until it reaches the texture you desire.

7. Make a Roux

A roux (a simple blend of fat and flour) is traditionally used to thicken soups and stews. It also works wonders for chili, especially if you prefer a smoother, richer finish. This method adds a comforting richness to your chili, perfect if you're looking for something a bit more indulgent.

• Instructions:

1. In a pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of flour and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until it forms a paste.
3. Slowly incorporate the roux into your chili, stirring until well blended and thickened.

Tips to Prevent Watery Chili

• Control the liquids: Start with less broth or water when you’re cooking chili and add more as necessary. Being mindful of liquid early on saves you time later.
• Use leaner meats: Fattier cuts of meat (like ground beef with higher fat content) tend to release more liquids that may contribute to watery chili. Stick with leaner meats like turkey or lean ground beef for better results.
• Thickens as it cools: If you store leftover chili, you may notice it thickens naturally when cooled. When reheating, you can always add a small splash of water or broth to loosen it back up.

Thickening your chili can take it from good to great. With these simple techniques, you can get the perfect consistency. Whether you’re opting for a traditional method or a quick fix, these options have your chili covered.

Explore more chili ideas, such as our Crescent-Topped Turkey Chili Mole or browse through our collection of Best Chili Recipes for more inspiration to brighten your family's mealtime.

Thickening your chili can take it from good to great, and with these simple techniques, you can get the perfect consistency every time. Pillsbury is here to help make every mealtime special, ensuring that your chili is always thick, warm, and full of flavor.