This Crock Pot Venison Chili is a bold and protein-rich recipe, which uses ground venison and black beans. It’s a no-fuss take on the classic, ready in about 8 hours and 15 minutes.
Crock Pot Venison Chili Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 green bell peppers, diced
- 1 lb. ground venison
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tbsp. chili powder
- 1 Tbsp. cumin
- 1 tsp. paprika
- ½ tsp. cinnamon (optional)
- 1½ tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. pepper
- 3 Tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 orange, juiced
- 1 lime, juiced
- ½–¾ cup venison or beef stock
- 28 oz. diced tomatoes, drained
- 15 oz. black beans, drained and rinsed
- 15 oz. kidney beans, drained and rinsed
How To Make Crock Pot Venison Chili
- Sauté veggies and meat: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Cook the diced onion and green peppers for 5–7 minutes until browned on the edges. Add ground venison and brown fully.
- Transfer to slow cooker: Add the browned venison mixture to the slow cooker.
- Add remaining ingredients: Pour in the garlic, spices, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, citrus juices, stock, diced tomatoes, and beans. Stir well to combine.
- Slow cook: Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours until flavors are developed.
- Serve: Spoon into bowls and top with your favorite chili toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

Recipe Tips
- Can I skip the browning step?
Yes, but browning adds extra flavor. You can dump all ingredients directly into the slow cooker if you’re short on time. - What can I use instead of venison?
Ground beef or turkey can be used if venison is unavailable. - How to thicken chili:
Let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or mash some beans into the mixture. - What toppings go well with venison chili?
Try shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months in airtight containers.
What To Serve With Venison Chili
This hearty chili goes great with:
- Cornbread
- Tortilla chips
- Baked potatoes
- A simple green salad
- Rice or cauliflower rice
How To Store Venison Chili
Refrigerate: Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop.
Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat thoroughly.
Venison Chili Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approx. 370
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 14g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 7g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Is venison chili gamey?
Proper seasoning and long cooking mellow the flavor. Citrus juice helps balance any gaminess.
Can I use canned tomatoes with juice?
Yes, but draining helps prevent overly watery chili.
How spicy is this recipe?
It’s mild-medium. Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you want more heat.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, just chop and use about 3–4 cups of fresh tomatoes.
Try More Recipes:
Crock Pot Venison Chili
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6-8
servings15
minutes8
hours370
kcalA bold, hearty chili made with lean venison, beans, and warming spices—perfect for cold days.
Ingredients
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1 yellow onion, diced
2 green bell peppers, diced
1 lb. ground venison
4–5 garlic cloves, minced
2 Tbsp. chili powder
1 Tbsp. cumin
1 tsp. paprika
½ tsp. cinnamon (optional)
1½ tsp. salt
½ tsp. pepper
3 Tbsp. tomato paste
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
Juice of 1 orange and 1 lime
½–¾ cup venison or beef stock
28 oz. diced tomatoes, drained
15 oz. black beans
15 oz. kidney beans
Directions
- Heat oil in a skillet. Sauté onion and peppers until soft, then brown venison.
- Transfer mixture to slow cooker.
- Add all remaining ingredients and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
- Stir and serve with desired toppings.
