Light, Low-Fat Chili Recipes for Fall

Keep your table warm and welcoming with these hearty, healthy dishes

by: Cookstr.com, from: AARP, November 6, 2012

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AARP and Cookstr: Great Low-Cal Chili Recipes

These 10 delicious chili recipes cut out some of the fat, but leave in all of the most important ingredient - flavor. — Julia Davila-Lampe/Getty Images

These 10 delicious chili recipes cut out some of the fat, but leave in all of the most important ingredient - flavor. From traditional ground beef-based chili to vegetarian and Mexican-inspired dishes, try these healthy variations on a comforting classic.

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1. Vegetable Chili by Julee Rosso

This meatless option combines eggplant, kidney beans and chickpeas. It leaves you satisfied, but not overstuffed.

Per Serving: 303 calories, 3g fat, 26g carbohydrates, 6g protein, 8g fiber

2. Three-Bean Turkey Chili by Lorna Sass

This protein-packed chili is a great quick-fix meal for a busy night.

Per Serving: 520 calories, 3g fat, 48g carbohydrates, 48g protein, 13g fiber

3. Bean & Bulgur Chili by Jane Butel

Adding bulgur to your chili is an easy way to consume more fiber and whole grain. It also makes this chili thick and hearty.

Per Serving: 180 calories, 5g fat, 31g carbohydrates, 9g protein, 7g fiber

4. Easy Three-Bean Chili by Mollie Katzen

Try this inexpensive chili if you need to stay within a budget without sacrificing flavor: Cumin, basil and cayenne add some kick.

Per Serving: 1g fat, 10g protein

5. Vegetarian Chili by Marie-Annick Courtier

Zucchini, portobello mushrooms and yellow squash replace the meat in this chili, which is an easy one-pot meal.

Per Serving: 432 calories, 7g fat, 80g carbohydrates, 22g protein, 18g fiber

6. Chicken Chili by Debbie Koenig

Substituting the usual beef for chicken makes this lighter than traditional chili, and the chipotles add a nice zing.

Per Serving: 382 calories, 8g fat, 35g carbohydrates, 43g protein, 8g fiber

7. Brown Rice Chili by Judith Finlayson

If you're looking for a slow-cooker chili, this is the recipe. Prepare the base of the chili the night before and let ingredients soak overnight for a rich flavor.

Per Serving: 161 calories, 1g fat, 30g carbohydrates, 7g protein, 3g fiber

8. Amazing Chili by Johanna Burkhard

A lean variation on conventional chili, this recipe includes ground beef and kidney beans, along with hot pepper flakes and chili powder to spice as you please.

Per Serving: 229 calories, 4g fat, 12g carbohydrates, 24g protein, 3g fiber

9. Haleem Chili by Suvir Saran

This zesty Indian recipe includes ginger, cardamom and cinnamon for a wonderful blend of spices. Topping it with onions, cilantro and lime wedges adds even more flavor.

Per Serving: 439 calories, 8g fat, 19g carbohydrates, 25g protein, 3g fiber

10. Mexican Mole Chili by Terry Golson

While this Mexican-inspired dish uses some classic chili ingredients, the cocoa powder lends it a unique and surprising flavor.

Per Serving: 370 calories, 15g fat, 34g protein

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