Greek-Inspired Chili
A Mediterranean twist on classic chili made with lean ground beef or lamb, chickpeas, and warm spices. It’s hearty, high in protein, and full of bright, fresh flavor.
What they are
This chili is a Shredhappens spin on comfort food. It’s rich and satisfying like traditional chili but with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean. The mix of oregano, cinnamon, lemon, and fresh herbs gives it a unique twist that hits every craving. It’s the perfect recipe for meal prep, cozy nights in, or whenever you want something warm, filling, and packed with protein.
Why You'll Love It
You’ll love this one because it’s hearty, flavorful, and full of texture. The chickpeas add substance, the lemon and herbs keep it bright, and the beef or lamb gives it that rich, comforting base. It’s chili that feels both fresh and familiar.
🥗 Hearty and balanced – loaded with protein, fiber, and flavor in every bite.
⏱️ Meal-prep friendly – makes enough for the week and tastes even better the next day.
💪 Comfort food, upgraded – cozy, filling, and packed with Mediterranean flavor.
What Makes it Work
This chili starts with lean ground beef or lamb for a hearty base, then builds layers of flavor with garlic, oregano, and warm spices like cinnamon and cumin. Chickpeas add plant-based protein and fiber, while carrots, celery, and bell pepper bring a fresh crunch. Lemon juice and herbs like dill and parsley brighten everything up at the end for the perfect balance of comfort and freshness.
Ingredients Swaps and Additions
This recipe is flexible. Use ground turkey or chicken if you want to keep it lighter, or add white beans instead of chickpeas. You can also toss in extra veggies like zucchini or spinach for more volume. For a spicier version, add extra chili flakes or a drizzle of harissa.
What to Serve With This
This chili works great on its own but also pairs perfectly with a slice of pita, a scoop of rice, or a simple side salad. Top it with crumbled feta, a spoon of Greek yogurt, or pita chips for extra crunch and creaminess.
FAQS
This chili works great on its own but also pairs perfectly with a slice of pita, a scoop of rice, or a simple side salad. Top it with crumbled feta, a spoon of Greek yogurt, or pita chips for extra crunch and creaminess.
How to Store
Let the chili cool completely before storing. Keep it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze portions for later. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot, then add your favorite toppings.
Greek-Inspired Chili
A Mediterranean twist on classic chili made with lean ground beef or lamb, chickpeas, and warm spices. It’s hearty, high in protein, and full of bright, fresh flavor.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
MACROS:
508 Calories • 40g Protein • 32g Net Carbs • 15g Fiber • 21g Fat
INGREDIENTS
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef or lamb
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 ribs of celery, chopped
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- Pinch red chili flakes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 (16-ounce) container of beef bone broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cups packed baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Optional toppings:
- Nonfat plain Greek yogurt
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Pita chips
DIRECTIONS
- Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat with olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with the back of a wooden spoon until browned, about 7 to 9 minutes.
- Add the carrots, celery, onion, and red bell pepper and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic, oregano, chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, coriander, red chili flakes, and tomato paste. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, chickpeas, and bone broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- During the last 5 minutes, add lemon juice and baby spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts.
- Serve hot and garnish with yogurt, feta, dill, parsley, and pita chips.
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