The Ultimate Chili Showdown: Battle of the Celebrity Chefs!

Taste test Ina Garten, Ree Drummond, and Giada De Laurentiis' chili recipes - the unexpected twist in the worst one without beef or beans!

I tested chili recipes from Ina Garten, Ree Drummond, and Giada De Laurentiis. The worst one lacked beef or beans.

The writer with three pots of chili Image: The writer with three pots of chili (Chelsea Davis)

Are you ready to spice up your life and take a delicious journey into the world of chili? Well, buckle up, fashionistas, because we’re about to embark on a wild culinary adventure! I decided to test the chili recipes of three renowned celebrity chefs – Ina Garten, Ree Drummond, and Giada De Laurentiis – and boy, was it a rollercoaster ride! Hold onto your taste buds, because things are about to get saucy!

Let’s dive right into this chili extravaganza and see what these famous chefs have to offer. Each recipe is as unique as a designer gown, with its own selection of proteins and vegetables. So, strap on your stilettos and let’s get cookin’!

Ina Garten’s Unexpected Twist

I kicked off this chili chronicle with Ina Garten’s recipe, expecting a traditional beefy masterpiece. But guess what? Garten had a surprise up her fashionable sleeves! Her chili was unlike anything I had imagined. It didn’t even have beans! As I simmered the onions, garlic, and bell peppers, I couldn’t help but wonder if I had stumbled into a pasta sauce party by mistake. Nevertheless, I followed the recipe to finally taste a chili that was more chic than classic.

Bell peppers, onion, spices on table Image: Bell peppers, onion, spices on table (Chelsea Davis)

Ree Drummond’s Classic Creation

After Garten’s quirky concoction, I needed something more traditional. Enter Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman herself! Her recipe promised a chili that would make me feel like a true cowgirl. I grabbed my apron and got to work browning the ground beef. As the savory aroma filled my kitchen, I knew I was in for a treat. Drummond’s classic chili was a one-pot wonder, brimming with robust flavors and hearty goodness.

Ground beef, corn grits, and spices on table Image: Ground beef, corn grits, and spices on the table (Chelsea Davis)

Giada De Laurentiis’ Chicken Twist

But wait, the chili party isn’t over yet! Giada De Laurentiis joined the style parade with her unique twist – ground chicken chili. I had never tried chicken in my chili before, but hey, fashion is all about taking risks, right? I sautéed the onions, garlic, and ground chicken, letting the flavors mingle and dance like supermodels on a runway. With each bite, I fell deeper in love with the medley of crunchy corn, white beans, and that distinct chicken taste. Giada definitely knew how to turn up the heat!

Onions, garlic, ground chicken, broth, and spices on table Image: Onions, garlic, ground chicken, broth, and spices on the table (Chelsea Davis)

And the Winner Is…

After this chili adventure, it’s time to reveal the ultimate champion. Drumroll, please! Drummond’s traditional chili and De Laurentiis’ chicken fiesta tied for the first-place crown. These two culinary queens delivered the bold and mouthwatering flavors we all crave. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic masterpiece or a trendy twist, these recipes will leave you wanting more.

Three pots of chili with arrows Image: Three pots of chili with arrows (Chelsea Davis)

Now, my fabulous readers, it’s time for you to get in on the chili extravaganza! Try these recipes and let us know which one makes your taste buds dance with joy. And hey, if you’re feeling adventurous, mix and match the elements like a fashion-forward stylist. Remember, in the world of chili, there are no rules, only fabulous flavors waiting to be discovered.

Cheers to the fashion-forward chili connoisseurs out there! Stay stylish and chili-licious!

Click here to check out the other celebrity-chef recipes we’ve put head-to-head so far.