Texan Smoked Brisket Chili with Black Beans

By Lauren Mitchell, Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-30 · Updated 2026-04-30

A hearty chili featuring smoked brisket chunks and black beans simmered in a robust tomato and chili base, perfect for a comforting meal. This American-inspired barbecue recipe, ready in about 65 minutes, pairs smoked beef brisket, black beans, diced tomatoes for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 6, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 lb, diced into 1-inch cubes smoked beef brisket
• 2 cups cooked or canned, drained and rinsed black beans
• 14 oz can diced tomatoes
• 1 medium, finely chopped yellow onion
• 4, minced garlic cloves
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1, seeded and finely chopped jalapeño pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped, for garnish fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium finely chopped yellow onion and 4 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Step 2: Stir in 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp ground cumin, and 1 tsp smoked paprika, cooking for 1 minute to toast the spices.
3. Step 3: Add 1 lb diced smoked beef brisket and 1 finely chopped seeded jalapeño pepper, stirring to combine and heat through for 3 minutes.
4. Step 4: Pour in 14 oz canned diced tomatoes and 2 cups beef broth, then add 2 cups drained black beans. Season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
5. Step 5: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and flavors meld.
6. Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro.