Foodie Newbie looking for the perfect bowl of blessedness or "the lady in blue"

Hello all,
 
I am a fan of Roadfood and find myself riding along the pleasures of taste and adventure with each report.  I have a challenge that is coming up and I am seeking some inside advice.  I have made a CHILI challenge to benefit a local charitable function and I want to be at least close in the runing.  How do you develope more depth of flavor in chilli/chili?  I would appreciate any advice along these line from anyone who enjoys the art of creation for this "bowl of blessedness".