Slow cookers make chili effortless, rich, and perfectly simmered every time.
I love coming home to a warm pot of chili that tastes like it simmered all day. If you juggle work, kids, or busy weekends, the best slow cooker for chili frees up your time and still delivers deep flavor. I’ll walk you through sturdy, roomy, and smart slow cookers that handle beans, meat, and spices without burning or drying out. I test for capacity, heat consistency, ease of cleanup, and portability. I’ll show who each model suits best so you can pick the right slow cooker and enjoy chili without fuss.
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker
The Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker is a classic workhorse for family chili nights. I use it when I want to make large batches of chili with beans, ground beef, or shredded chicken. Its 7-quart capacity lets me feed a crowd or prep meals for the week. The manual dial is simple: low, high, or warm. I appreciate the oval stoneware which creates even heat and fits large pork shoulders or whole chickens, so chunky chili or meat-heavy recipes cook evenly. The lid seals well and the pot is dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup straightforward after a long simmer.
In practice, the Crock-Pot 7 Quart makes consistent chili without fuss. I’ve tested it for 6+ hours on low and found no scorching on the bottom when I stirred ingredients early and kept liquid at recommended levels. It’s great for chili recipes that start with sautéing aromatics on the stove, then transferring ingredients to slow-cook all day. I like the shape for casseroles or thick chilis that benefit from wide surface area. While it lacks programmable timers, its simplicity is an advantage if you prefer manual control and rugged reliability for classic slow-cooked flavors.
Pros
- Large 7-quart capacity for family-sized chili batches.
- Simple manual controls for easy use.
- Oval stoneware encourages even cooking and browning.
- Dishwasher-safe pot and lid make cleanup easy.
- Reliable, no-frills performance for everyday slow cooking.
Cons
- No programmable timer or digital display.
- Manual dial lacks precise temperature settings.
My Recommendation
I recommend the Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval if you want a straightforward, dependable slow cooker to make large pots of chili. It’s best for families and home cooks who value capacity and simplicity. If you need exact timing, this may not be ideal, but for hearty, slow-simmered chili, it delivers deep flavor and easy cleanup. The Crock-Pot remains a strong pick in my list of the best slow cooker for chili thanks to its capacity and consistent heating.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Large Families | 7-quart capacity feeds many or makes leftovers. |
| Simple Use | Manual dial is easy to operate with minimal learning. |
| Budget Shoppers | Reliable performance without smart features raises value. |
Ninja PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart
The Ninja PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart is a versatile multi-cooker that I reach for when I want more than just a slow cooker. Its 8.5-quart Dutch oven-style insert is oven-safe up to 500°F and works as a slow cooker, steamer, and more. For chili, this model shines because it lets me brown meat on the stove or sear right in the pot, then switch to slow-cook mode without transferring pans. The integrated glass lid seals in moisture so beans soften and beef becomes tender. The nonstick surface helps when you want less oil and easier cleanup.
In repeated testing, the Ninja PossibleCooker PRO maintained steady low temperatures that produced thick, well-developed chili after 6–8 hours. The ability to use high-heat oven-safe functions means I can start a chili recipe with a quick roast or broil step, then slow-cook to meld flavors. I also like built-in accessories that simplify serving and stirring. It’s a little larger and heavier than single-function slow cookers, but the added flexibility made it one of my top picks for the best slow cooker for chili when I want multi-use value in the kitchen.
Pros
- 8.5-quart capacity with oven-safe pot to 500°F.
- Multi-cooker functions (slow cook, Dutch oven, steam).
- Nonstick insert simplifies cleanup.
- Good heat retention for long chili simmers.
- Integrated accessories add convenience for serving.
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than simple slow cookers.
- More features increase learning curve for beginners.
My Recommendation
I recommend the Ninja PossibleCooker PRO 8.5 Quart to cooks who want flexibility. It’s ideal if you make varied chili recipes, sear meat, or finish dishes in the oven. For those who value multifunction appliances, this emerges as a top contender in the best slow cooker for chili category. It offers capacity, durability, and multi-use value that justify the investment.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Multi-Tasking Cooks | Combines searing, slow cooking, and oven use in one pot. |
| Entertainers | Large capacity and versatile cooking modes fit varied recipes. |
| Cleanup-Conscious | Nonstick insert and easy-to-clean accessories save time. |
Hamilton Beach 10 Quart Slow Cooker
The Hamilton Beach Extra Large 10 Quart Slow Cooker is built for big gatherings and meal prep. I choose this cooker when I need to make large pots of chili for parties, potlucks, or batch freezing. The lid lock and portable design are excellent for transporting chili safely without spills. Inside, the dishwasher-safe crock is roomy and keeps heat even. I particularly value how the 10-quart size lets me cook chili with lots of beans and chunky vegetables without overcrowding, which helps achieve consistent softening and a great texture.
During my hands-on testing, the Hamilton Beach 10 Quart produced steady, reliable results in long simmers. I tested recipes requiring 8+ hours and saw consistent tenderness and flavor development. The portability factor made it a go-to for events; the lid lock prevents messy accidents in transit. It lacks advanced digital programming, but the strong points are capacity and practicality. If you often prepare large quantities of chili, this Hamilton Beach model is one of the most capable large-format slow cookers on the market and a solid pick among the best slow cooker for chili options.
Pros
- Huge 10-quart capacity for large crowds and meal prep.
- Lid lock and portability for events and transport.
- Dishwasher-safe crock simplifies cleanup.
- Even heating for long simmer times.
- Durable design built for frequent use.
Cons
- No programmable digital timer.
- Large size requires significant storage space.
My Recommendation
I recommend the Hamilton Beach 10 Quart Slow Cooker for anyone who cooks large batches of chili often. It is ideal for potlucks, meal prep, and families who want plenty of leftovers. The portability and lid lock make it uniquely practical for transport. For sheer volume and reliability, it ranks highly among the best slow cooker for chili choices.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Events & Parties | Large 10-quart size serves many guests. |
| Meal Preppers | Batch cooking capacity reduces repeat cooking. |
| Transport Needs | Lid lock and sturdy build prevent spills on the go. |
Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable
The Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker adds digital control to a roomy package. I use this model when I want precise cooking times and the convenience of auto-warm. Its programmable timer lets me set cook time and switch to warm automatically, which helps when my schedule shifts. For chili, this means I can set a recipe to cook for 8 hours and know it will hold at a safe serving temperature afterward. The 8-quart crock holds large recipes while the stainless-steel exterior looks at home on any countertop.
In real-world use, the Crock-Pot programmable model delivered consistent simmering and predictable results. I appreciated the auto-warm feature for weekends when family members serve themselves at different times. The digital interface simplifies multi-day meal prep, and the large capacity is great for thick, bean-heavy chilis. Cleanup remains straightforward with a removable crock. If you want a capacious slow cooker with modern convenience, this Crock-Pot model is among the best slow cooker for chili options for busy homes who want programmability and volume.
Pros
- Programmable timer with auto-warm function.
- 8-quart capacity fits large chili recipes.
- Stainless-steel exterior is durable and attractive.
- Removable crock makes cleanup easy.
- Consistent temperature control for long simmers.
Cons
- Larger footprint may not suit small kitchens.
- Digital controls add slight complexity for some users.
My Recommendation
I recommend the Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Programmable for cooks who want a blend of capacity and smart features. It’s perfect for families and anyone who needs timed cooking with auto-warm safety. For reliable performance when making chili, it stands out as a practical, feature-rich choice among the best slow cooker for chili models.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Busy Households | Programmable timer and auto-warm add convenience. |
| Family Dinners | 8-quart size serves multiple people easily. |
| Meal Scheduling | Set-and-forget cooking fits unpredictable schedules. |
Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker PRO MC1010
The Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker PRO MC1010 is a 6-in-1 multi-cooker that adds sous vide and proofing to the slow cook, delivered in an 8.5-quart pot. I use it when I want precision: sous vide for perfectly cooked proteins and slow-cook for deep chili flavors. The versatility is helpful when experimenting with chili textures and protein types. Its oven-safe pot and glass lid allow searing and finishing steps without extra pans. The integrated spoon and smartly designed lid make serving and stirring easy during long simmers.
In testing, the MC1010’s slow-cook mode offered stable low temperatures that produced rich, well-blended chili after extended cooking. I appreciated the ability to switch between functions for creative recipes—like finishing chili under higher heat or using the proof setting for flatbread sides. Cleanup remains manageable thanks to the nonstick pot, and the overall build feels sturdy. If you want a flexible, high-performing multi-cooker with capabilities beyond basic slow cooking, the Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker PRO MC1010 ranks among the top picks for the best slow cooker for chili when you need culinary range.
Pros
- 6-in-1 functions including sous vide and slow cook.
- 8.5-quart capacity with oven-safe, nonstick pot.
- Good temperature stability for deep simmering.
- Integrated accessories like spoon and glass lid help serving.
- Versatile for creative chili recipes and side dishes.
Cons
- More complex controls than single-function units.
- Higher price point due to added features.
My Recommendation
I recommend the Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker PRO MC1010 for cooks who want advanced functions and consistent slow-cook performance. It is great if you experiment with sous vide or need a multi-purpose pot that still shines as the best slow cooker for chili. The MC1010 offers serious value for creative home chefs.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Experimental Cooks | Sous vide and proofing expand recipe options. |
| Serious Home Chefs | Versatile functions replace multiple appliances. |
| Entertaining | Large capacity and accessories support serving guests. |
FAQs Of best slow cooker for chili
How long should I slow-cook chili?
I usually cook chili 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high. Low-and-slow yields better texture and deeper flavors. Check beans and meat tenderness before serving.
Can I brown meat in the slow cooker?
Yes. If your model allows stovetop searing or has an oven-safe pot like the Ninja models, brown meat first. Browning adds flavor and reduces excess grease in chili.
What size slow cooker is best for chili?
For families and leftovers, 7–10 quarts is ideal. Smaller models (4–6 quarts) work for 2–4 servings. I prefer 7–8.5 quarts as a versatile sweet spot for chili batches.
Can I put dried beans in without pre-soaking?
You can, but pre-soaking reduces cook time and helps even cooking. If using dried beans unsoaked, extend cooking time and ensure enough liquid to fully hydrate them.
How do I avoid watery chili from a slow cooker?
Use less liquid initially, remove lid for the last 30–60 minutes to thicken, or mash some beans to naturally thicken the sauce. Searing meat can also reduce excess liquid.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
For everyday reliable chili, the Crock-Pot 7 Quart and Crock-Pot 8-Quart Programmable stand out for consistent results. If you want multifunction versatility, the Ninja PossibleCooker PRO or Ninja Foodi PRO offer added searing and oven-safe features. For large gatherings, choose the Hamilton Beach 10 Quart. Overall, pick the model that fits your cooking style to get the best slow cooker for chili.
