Best Chili Mixes of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 11, 2026

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Chili mixes are a popular choice for those who love spicy and flavorful foods. These mixes are typically made up of a combination of chili peppers, spices, and other ingredients that are used to create a delicious and unique flavor profile. There are a variety of different chili mixes available on the market, ranging from mild to extremely hot, and each one offers a different taste experience. Some mixes are designed specifically for use in chili recipes, while others can be used to spice up a variety of different dishes. Whether you're looking to add some heat to your favorite foods or you're a fan of traditional chili recipes, there's a chili mix out there that's perfect for you.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

McCormick Original Chili Seasoning Mix Cover #TOP 1
McCormick Original Chili Seasoning Mix
ftb score rating icon 9.9
McCormick Culinary Pickling Spice 12 oz Cover #TOP 2
McCormick Culinary Pickling Spice 12 oz
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Carroll Shelby's Original Texas Chili Mix Kit Cover #TOP 3
Carroll Shelby's Original Texas Chili Mix Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Chili Mixes

#TOP 1

McCormick Original Chili Seasoning Mix

McCormick Original Chili Seasoning Mix Cover
McCormick Original Chili Seasoning Mix, 22 oz

McCormick Original Chili Seasoning Mix is an expertly blended combo of chili pepper, paprika, cumin, onion and garlic. It is made with McCormick spices and contains no MSG or artificial flavors. It is the perfect level of heat and is an award-winning chili in every box. It is a great way to put together a homemade meal in 20 minutes, any night of the week.

What We Like
Rich, balanced flavor
High quality and freshness
Easy to use and pour
Great value price
Versatile seasoning uses
What We Don't Like
Easily confused with chili powder
#TOP 2

McCormick Culinary Pickling Spice 12 oz

McCormick Culinary Pickling Spice 12 oz Cover
McCormick Culinary Pickling Spice, 12 oz - One 12 Ounce Container of Mixed Pickling Spice, Best for Seasoning Pickles, Corned Beef, Pot Roasts and More

McCormick Pickling Spice offers a classic, tangy flavor that brings authentic pickle taste right to your kitchen. This blend includes 11 different spices, seeds, and herbs, such as cinnamon and bay leaves, to give your pickles and dishes a rich, balanced flavor. Designed with professional chefs in mind, it ensures you get consistent results every time you cook. Whether you're pickling vegetables or seasoning pot roasts, corned beef, or spiced fruits, this spice mix helps enhance your recipes with ease and reliability.

What We Like
Great flavor enhancement
Excellent value for price
Versatile seasoning use
Large quantity available
Long-lasting supply
What We Don't Like
Slightly strong clove flavor
#TOP 3

Carroll Shelby's Original Texas Chili Mix Kit

CARROLL SHELBY'S ORIGINAL TEXAS BRAND
Chili Mix
Carroll Shelby's Original Texas Chili Mix Kit Cover
Carroll Shelby's Original Texas Brand Chili Kit 3.65oz Box (Pack of 8)

Carroll Shelby's Original Texas Chili Mix Kit is a custom chili mix featuring individual seasoning packets of cayenne and Masa flour to make 2 pounds of meat mild or spicy. It's crafted with bold creativity by Carroll Shelby himself and is perfect for hearty chilis, burger toppings, tacos, salads and other favorites. Customers love the mild flavor and the ability to customize the chili to their taste. It's also gluten free and perfect for a cold winter day.

What We Like
Rich, balanced flavor
Customizable spice level
Easy and quick preparation
High quality spices
Works with various meats
What We Don't Like
Milder seasoning for some tastes
Price varies by retailer
#TOP 4

McCormick Original Chili Seasoning Mix

052100091501
McCormick Original Chili Seasoning Mix Cover
McCormick Original Chili Seasoning Mix, 1.25 oz

McCormick Original Chili Seasoning Mix is an expertly blended combo of chili pepper, paprika, cumin, onion and garlic. It's perfect for making award-winning chili, but can also be used to liven up baked beans, burgers, dips and more. With no MSG added or artificial flavors, you can put together a homemade meal in 20 minutes, any night of the week.

What We Like
Flavorful seasoning blend
Mild heat level
Easy to use
Good quality and price
Versatile for homemade chili
What We Don't Like
Occasional shipping delays
#TOP 5

McCormick Mild Chili Seasoning Mix

10052100155200
McCormick Mild Chili Seasoning Mix Cover
McCormick Mild Chili Seasoning Mix, 1.25 oz

McCormick Mild Chili Mix is perfect for creating a delicious, hearty meal any night of the week. Whether you’re using ground beef, pork, turkey, or just beans for a veggie option, this seasoning mix will elevate your dish. The award-winning blend ensures that you serve a comforting bowl of chili that your whole family will enjoy. Plus, it’s free from MSG and artificial flavors or colors, allowing you to cook with peace of mind. Enjoy the convenience of an easy dinner that satisfies everyone at the table!

What We Like
Good blend of spices
Mild heat level
Versatile for chili recipes
Great value
Fresh, quality seasoning
What We Don't Like
Can become strong if overcooked
Less spicy than regular mix

MaeMai Mild Chili Crisp Onion & Garlic Flakes

MaeMai Mild Chili Crisp Onion & Garlic Flakes Cover
MaeMai Chili Crisp (MILD Spice) - Premium Onion & Garlic Flakes - Crispy All-Purpose Seasoning, Topper | Keto, vegan, gluten-free. Crunchy condiment for ramen add ons, rice seasoning, salads | 3.17 oz (90g)

The MaeMai Mild Chili Crisp is a great way to add flavor without overwhelming heat, perfect if you enjoy a mild spicy kick. These crunchy flakes are cooked with very little oil, giving you a light, crispy texture that’s never greasy. Made from hand-peeled garlic and onion, the ingredients are fresh and carefully selected, ensuring high quality in every bite. Plus, it’s free from breading, so you get a pure, satisfying crunch. This seasoning is a simple way to boost the taste of your meals while keeping things healthy and natural.

What We Like
Great garlic and onion flavor
Gluten free alternative
Versatile topping for meals
Lower sodium ingredients
Crunchy and savory texture
What We Don't Like
Smaller size than expected
Not very crunchy
#TOP 7

McCormick Gluten-Free Taco Seasoning Mix

TS0417-A700ML-M471
McCormick Gluten-Free Taco Seasoning Mix Cover
McCormick Gluten Free Taco Seasoning Mix, 1.25 oz (Pack of 12)

Make delicious tacos with McCormick Gluten-Free Taco Seasoning Mix, which contains the bold flavors of chili pepper, paprika, and oregano. This mix is gluten-free, has no MSG added, and contains no artificial flavors. Simply add one packet of the mix to 1 lb of meat like beef or turkey to enjoy a gluten-free and flavorful meal. Additionally, the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness has certified this seasoning mix to be gluten-free.

What We Like
Gluten free option
Great value for money
Delicious flavor
Easy to use
Attractive packaging
What We Don't Like
A bit salty for some
#TOP 8

6 Pack Cincinnati Chili Mix Packets

TS0417-A700ML-M834
Original Version
6 Pack Cincinnati Chili Mix Packets Cover
6 Pack Cincinnati Chili Mix Packets

Enjoy the delicious taste of Cincinnati Style Chili with this 6 Pack of Chili Mix Packets. These packets are easy to make, making it a breeze to whip up a quick and tasty meal. Plus, it's fun to eat with family and friends. Perfect for those who love chili and want to try a new flavor.

What We Like
Authentic Cincinnati chili flavor
Easy and convenient preparation
Nostalgic taste of home
Versatile serving options
Generous portion size
What We Don't Like
Slightly salty taste
Preference for other brands
#TOP 9

French's Original Chili-O Seasoning Mix

TS0417-A700ML-M900
French's Original Chili-O Seasoning Mix Cover
French's Original Chili-O Seasoning Mix, 1.75 oz

French's Original Chili-O Seasoning Mix is a chili seasoning mix that includes chili pepper, paprika, and onion powder. With no MSG added, it saves you time and allows you to make homemade chili in just 20 minutes. You can combine it with ground beef or ground turkey, tomato, and kidney beans. It is not only perfect for making chili, but also great for nachos, mac 'n cheese, and chili fries.

What We Like
Authentic homemade chili flavor
Easy preparation instructions
Consistently delicious results
Reasonable price
Reliable seasoning blend
What We Don't Like
Limited store availability
#TOP 10

McCormick Less Sodium Chili Seasoning Mix 1.25 oz

052100942698
McCormick Less Sodium Chili Seasoning Mix 1.25 oz Cover
McCormick 30% Less Sodium Chili Seasoning Mix, 1.25 oz

The McCormick Low Sodium Chili Mix offers a flavorful blend of chili pepper, onion, salt, and garlic, but with 30% less sodium compared to the original version. This means you can enjoy a tasty chili without worrying about too much salt. It contains no MSG or artificial flavors, making it a cleaner choice for your meals. Made with McCormick’s trusted spices, you get the quality and taste from America’s #1 herb and spice brand. This mix is perfect for anyone looking to prepare a hearty, delicious chili with less sodium and no unwanted additives.

What We Like
Low sodium content
Simple ingredient list
Good flavor
Convenient for quick meals
Healthier alternative
What We Don't Like
Mild spice level
Occasional shipping issues
Buying Guide Image

A Guide to Selecting the Best Chili Mixes

Introduction

When it comes to making chili, one of the most important ingredients is the chili mix. This blend of spices and seasonings is what gives chili its signature flavor and heat. But with so many different chili mixes on the market, how do you choose the right one for your recipe?

Consider the Type of Chili You're Making

The first thing to consider when choosing a chili mix is the type of chili you're making. Are you making a classic beef chili, or are you trying something more exotic like chicken chili or vegetarian chili? Different chili mixes are better suited to different types of chili, so it's important to choose one that will complement the other ingredients in your recipe.

Pay Attention to the Ingredients

Another important factor to consider when choosing a chili mix is the ingredients. Some chili mixes are made with a blend of different spices and seasonings, while others are made with just a few key ingredients. If you're looking for a complex, layered flavor, a mix with a variety of spices is a good choice. But if you want a simpler, more straightforward flavor, a mix with just a few key ingredients might be a better option.

Decide on the Heat Level

One of the key characteristics of chili is its heat level, and different chili mixes can provide a wide range of heat levels. Some mixes are very mild, while others are fiery hot. When choosing a chili mix, think about how much heat you want in your chili and choose a mix accordingly. If you're not sure how hot a particular mix is, check the label or look for reviews online to get an idea of its heat level.

Experiment and Have Fun

Ultimately, the best chili mix is the one that tastes good to you. So don't be afraid to experiment and try different chili mixes until you find one that you love. And remember, making chili is supposed to be fun, so don't stress too much about finding the perfect mix. Just choose one that you think will work well with your recipe and give it a try. You may be surprised at how delicious your chili turns out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the most common spices in chili?

The most common spices in chili include cumin, chili powders, paprika, garlic, onion, coriander, Mexican oregano, and bay leaves. These spices can be combined to create a savory and well-balanced pot of chili.

2. What can I use if I don't have chili seasoning packet?

If you don't have a chili seasoning packet, you can make your own by combining ingredients like paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences.

3. What brings out the flavor in chili?

To bring out the flavors in chili, you can add a dash of apple cider vinegar, sherry vinegar, or fresh lime juice right before removing it from the stove. The acidic pop enhances the layered flavors of the chili.

4. What kind of chili powder should I use for chili?

When choosing chili powder for chili, it's best to buy salt-free chili powder. This gives you more control over the salt content in your chili. Check the label to ensure it is salt-free.

5. Can you use taco mix as chili mix?

Yes, you can use taco seasoning as a substitute for chili mix and vice versa. If you have taco seasoning on hand and need it for your chili recipe, you can use it without any issues.

6. What is the best mix of meat for chili?

The best mix of meat for chili will depend on the type you're making. Professionals often use a combination of ground chuck, brisket, short ribs, diced tri-tip sirloin, bacon, and sausage to layer multiple textures and flavors in their chili.

Editor's Notes

During our chili mix research, we found 24 chili mix products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 125,692 customer reviews through our big data system to write the chili mixes list. We found that most customers choose chili mixes with an average price of $11.05.

The chili mixes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of chili mixes, including McCormick, McCormick Culinary, CARROLL SHELBY'S ORIGINAL TEXAS BRAND, MaeMai, Skytime, Inc.. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!

Chili Mixes Comparison Table

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#TOP10
Brand McCormick McCormick Culinary CARROLL SHELBY'S ORIGINAL TEXAS BRAND McCormick McCormick MaeMai McCormick Skytime, Inc. French's McCormick
Units 22.0 Ounce 12.0 Ounce 8 Count 1.2 Ounce 1.25 Ounce 3.17 Ounce 15.0 Ounce 13.5 Ounce 1.75 Ounce 1.25 Ounce
Item Form Powder Flake Powder Ground,Beans Paste Flakes Powder Powder - Powder
Unit Count 22.0 Ounce 12.0 Ounce 8 Count 1.2 Ounce 1.25 Ounce - 15.0 Ounce 13.5 Ounce 1.75 Ounce 1.25 Ounce
Specialty high-fructose-corn-syrup-free, vegan, vegetarian high-fructose-corn-syrup-free, kosher, low-carb, vegan, vegetarian Gluten Free Keto, No Artificial Flavors, No High Fructose, No MSG, Vegan, Vegetarian No Artificial Flavors, No High Fructose, No MSG - gluten free, no artificial flavors, no msg Chili high-fructose-corn-syrup-free, vegan, vegetarian No Artificial Flavors, No MSG
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
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