Smoked Venison Chili Recipe by Eva Shockey Oct. 16, 2020

Smoked Venison Chili Recipe

Get ready to braise ground venison with all the traditional chili ingredients, directly on the grill, for a smokin’ hot take on this comfort food classic.

Smoked Venison Chili Recipe
Everyone is going to want a hearty helping of this smoked venison chili, so be sure to break out the big ladle when serving it. (Photo courtesy of Traeger)

Print RecipeThis Smoked Venison Chili Recipe was created by Eva Shockey, host of My Outdoor Family on Outdoor Channel.

Serves: 8-12
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 2 hours
Recommended wood chips/pellets: Hickory

Ingredients:

  • Olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped finely
  • 1-2 pounds ground venison or other wild game
  • 4 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 2 large cans diced tomatoes
  • 2 cans red kidney beans
  • 2 cans white beans
  • 1 can black beans
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder, or more to taste
  • 3 tablespoons ground cumin, or more to taste
  • 4 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons oregano
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • Chili flakes, to taste
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

  1. Heat oil in a large pot on medium-high heat. Add crushed garlic and onion and cook until fragrant. Add venison and cook until no longer pink.
  2. When ready to cook the chili, set the temperature on your grill to 325 degrees F and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes.
  3. Add remaining ingredients to the pot and stir together. Bring to a simmer, cover and place directly on the grill grate.
  4. Cook for 1 ½ to 2 hours or until venison chili has thickened and the meat is tender. Note: Cook times will vary depending on set and ambient temperatures.
  5. Season the chili to taste, adding more chili powder and cumin for a spicier chili.
  6. Serve Smoked Venison Chili with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!