When it comes to serving with chili, one of the most important considerations is finding the perfect accompaniment. Whether you’re looking for something savory, sweet, or fresh, there’s a wide range of options to choose from. Chili is often thought of as a comfort food staple, and its versatility is part of what makes it so appealing. Not only can you experiment with different recipes, but you can also get creative with toppings.
And then there are the side dishes – a crucial component in completing your meal. With chili, the possibilities are truly endless, and we’ve got 42 unique and fun options to share with you that will elevate your dish to new heights.
Green Chili Cornbread
The harmonious union of chili and cornbread is nothing short of extraordinary. But what happens when you elevate this classic combination by incorporating rich cheddar cheese and the tangy kick of green chili? The result is a side dish that transcends its humble roots, becoming an unparalleled delight.
Chicken Fajita Quesadillas
When pondering what to pair with chili, consider treating yourself to a Chicken Fajita Quesadilla – a culinary match made in heaven! The harmonious union of sautéed peppers, crunchy corn tortillas, tender shredded chicken, and gooey melted cheese is sure to tantalize your taste buds. For a satisfying meal, serve this delightful quesadilla alongside a meatless chili dish. If your chili contains meat, feel free to omit the chicken – the flavors will still meld beautifully.
Sweet Corn & Basil Salad
To add some contrast to your hearty chili, consider whipping up a basil and corn salad. This refreshing side dish is built on a trifecta of flavors: sweet roasted corn, tangy tomatoes, and bright, herbaceous basil. To tie everything together, reach for a light vinaigrette that will enhance the natural sweetness of the corn without overpowering it. The result is a harmonious accompaniment to your chili that will leave you feeling satisfied.
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
When deciding what to pair with your chili, consider elevating it with the delightful combination of Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers. The fiery kick from the jalapenos is a personal favorite, but I understand if you’re not a fan of spicy food – simply substitute them with milder options like yellow chilies or banana peppers.
To prepare this tasty side dish, fill the seeded peppers with a blend of cream cheese and cheddar, then wrap them in partially cooked bacon strips for a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor.
Skillet Nachos
When it comes to pairing sides with Texan-Style Chili, Skillet Nachos are a match made in heaven. This mouthwatering combination checks all the right boxes: cheesy, savory, and crunchy. The sweet spot of flavors is further elevated by the addition of peppers and black beans, which add a delightful burst of flavor. But what truly sets this dish apart is the satisfying crunch of the nachos, expertly cooked to provide the perfect textural contrast to the hearty chili.
Cheesy Potato Skins
When it comes to pairing with chili, I’m a big fan of potato skins. There’s just something irresistible about the combination of their crispy exterior and the indulgent toppings. In particular, the harmonious blend of sour cream, savory bacon, melted cheese, and crunchy green onions makes this side dish an absolute crowd-pleaser.
Spanish Rice
Combine the warmth of Spanish rice with the crunch of your favorite vegetables to create a satisfying side dish that complements chili perfectly. The addition of juicy tomatoes, caramelized onions, and aromatic spices brings depth and variety to the dish. This harmonious union makes for a well-rounded family meal that’s sure to please.
Cheesy Chipotle Lime Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes
While chili lovers are often drawn to bold, spicy flavors, there’s another winning combination that pairs perfectly with the rich, savory taste: sweet potatoes. This creamy and spicy side dish stands out not only for its unique flavor profile but also for its clever use of texture. The key to achieving this velvety smoothness lies in a twice-baked technique that allows the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes to shine through.
Adding a dollop of sour cream takes it to the next level, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that complements chili beautifully. For those seeking a side dish that’s both sweet and fiery, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Taco-Spiced Sweet Potato Fries
When it comes to pairing dishes with chili, one often overlooked option is Taco-Spiced Sweet Potato Fries. Not only do they provide a satisfying crunch, but their flavor complements the rich tones of chili perfectly. The best part? These sweet potato fries are surprisingly simple to prepare and can be ready in just a few minutes.
Simply season your freshly cut sweet potatoes with your go-to taco seasoning blend, then serve them alongside a steaming bowl of chili for a match made in culinary heaven.
Taco Stuffed Mini Peppers
Elevate your chili game by incorporating mini sweet peppers into the mix. Simply fill them with a medley of taco-inspired ingredients, such as salsa, ground beef, and taco seasoning, for an unbeatable flavor combination. The satisfying crunch of the peppers provides a delightful textural contrast to the hearty chili, making each bite a joy.
Creamy Coleslaw
When pairing a simple and flavorful side dish with your chili, consider preparing a Creamy Coleslaw that’s as vibrant as it is delicious. For added convenience, you can opt for pre-cut and prepared mixed coleslaw bags and simply dress them with your preferred salad dressing. The combination of creamy mayo and a dollop of sour cream creates a harmonious balance of flavors, where the tanginess of the mayo beautifully complements the crunchiness of the vegetables.
As an effortless and satisfying accompaniment to chili, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Red Lobster Biscuits
My trusty go-to side dish for meals is a batch of scrumptious cheddar biscuits, particularly when paired with a warm bowl of chili. The key to achieving that perfect balance of cheesy goodness and flaky texture lies in the simple yet effective combination of flour, milk, butter, and cheddar cheese. To take it to the next level, I recommend investing in premium ingredients – namely high-quality butter and cheddar cheese – for an unparalleled melt-in-your-mouth experience.
No-Mayo Carolina Coleslaw
When it comes to pairing sides with chili, there’s one dish that stands out as a perfect match: coleslaw! But this isn’t just any ordinary coleslaw – it’s a mayo-free masterpiece that gets its bold flavor from an intriguing combination of ingredients like celery seeds, cabbage, kale leaves, carrots, onions, cider vinegar, and mustard. What’s more, this recipe is versatile enough to complement not only chili, but also sirloin steak or other BBQ favorites.
Apple Carrot Slaw
If you’re still searching for the perfect accompaniment to chili, you might just find it in this next recipe. This carrot slaw is incredibly versatile, boasting a delightful flavor profile thanks to the unexpected combination of dried cranberries and salty feta cheese. The dressing adds a welcome tanginess and sweetness that beautifully complements apples and carrots.
Zucchini Fries
Indulge in the crispy, golden delight that is zucchini fries. To achieve this mouthwatering treat, start by coating your zucchinis with breadcrumbs and baking them until they reach the perfect crunch. The secret to these delectable sticks lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients: eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper provide a savory foundation. For added depth, consider pairing your breadcrumb mixture with parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor. And why stop there?
Zucchini fries are equally enticing when served alongside a tangy chili, ketchup, or another sauce of your choice. The possibilities are endless!
Caesar Salad
When paired with other dishes, this salad forms a harmonious union that complements a variety of flavors. Its creamy profile and satisfying crunch make it an excellent match for your favorite chili or entrée. The salad’s versatility is further enhanced by its ability to be customized to suit individual tastes. To unlock the full flavor potential, refrigeration prior to serving is essential.
Additionally, adding crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and grilled chicken chunks provides a delightful twist, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your liking.
Onion Rings
While zucchini fries may be the star of the show when it comes to pairing with chili, another crowd-pleasing option is onion rings. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is a match made in heaven. To create these crispy treats, start by soaking sliced onions in buttermilk to give them a rich and creamy flavor. Next, coat the onions in a mixture of flour and cornmeal seasoned with pepper for an added boost of flavor.
Finally, fry the onion rings in hot oil until they’re golden brown and crunchy, perfect for dipping into your favorite chili recipe.
Garlic Butter Breadsticks
What sets these breadsticks apart is the harmonious blend of butter, garlic, dried herbs, and grated Parmesan cheese, which yields an exceptional fusion of flavors and textures. This winning combination has earned them a special spot on my list of go-to snacks to serve with my signature chili recipe. And the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to prepare.
Simply combine the ingredients to form a rich mixture, brush it onto breadstick strips, and pop them in the oven for a deliciously satisfying outcome.
Potato Chips
The iconic pairing of potato chips and chili is a must-try combination. The satisfying crunch of the chips elevates the richness of the chili to new heights. But why stop at just salt and pepper? Feel free to get creative with your flavor profile by adding spices that cater to your personal taste preferences. Consider sprinkling ground cumin, minced herbs, or ancho chili powder onto your chips for a unique twist.
Crispy Cauliflower Tacos
While chili and tacos may be a classic combination, this recipe takes it to the next level by offering a meatless, bean-free option that’s sure to please. The star of the show is the tender cauliflower florets coated in panko breadcrumbs and fried to a golden brown perfection – their crispy texture adds a delightful contrast to the dish. Meanwhile, the chipotle pepper sauce, cumin, garlic, and onion powder provide a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.
With its well-balanced taste, this recipe is sure to complement any main course while still offering a satisfying bite of its own.
Green Bean Fries
Indulge in the delightful world of air-fried snacks, perfect for satisfying those late-night cravings for French fries. The crispy perfection and bursting flavors of these bite-sized treats are sure to impress even the most discerning young palates. And with their guilt-free appeal, you can rest assured that your little ones will be just as excited about these kid-friendly sides as they are about the main event.
Imagine the delight on their faces as they chomp down on the tender green beans, experiencing a thrilling play of textures to complement every bite.
Miniature Avocado Toasts
Transform your breakfast staple into a show-stopping party treat that’s sure to impress at your next gathering. Not only do they look stunning, but they also boast incredible flavor. Plus, their versatility makes them an excellent choice for grazing tables. To ensure the avocados retain their vibrant green hue, don’t forget to squeeze in some lime juice during preparation.
And, just as chili’s creamy counterpart is guacamole, these bite-sized delights can be thought of as its crunchy cousin – a perfect pairing with crusty baguettes.
Baked Eggplant Sticks
Not only do pica-pica eggplants pair well with a rich marinara sauce, but they also serve as an excellent utensil for sopping up the flavors of a hearty bowl of chili. Their versatility extends to family gatherings and social events, where they can be a crowd-pleasing side dish. When freshly baked or air-fried, these crispy sticks offer a delightful snacking experience.
Louisiana Dirty Rice
When it comes to serving sides, presenting options from the same culinary realm can be a clever move. The process of preparing rice is what makes it such an endearing accompaniment to the main dish. This colorful and flavorful carbohydrate-rich meal has a natural affinity with chili, making them a harmonious pair. It’s essential to consider the spice level when cooking your rice, as you wouldn’t want the side dish to compete with the spiciness of the chili for attention.
Black Beans & Rice Recipe (Arroz Congri)
In Hispanic cuisine, a classic white rice dish is a staple. However, you can give it a bold twist by adding black beans, which changes its appearance to a deep, dark color. For a reddish hue, consider using annatto seeds or tomato sauce as substitutes. It’s essential to note that using red beans will result in a distinct dish known as Arroz Moros, a renowned Latin American creation.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
This beloved Mexican side dish is a masterclass in flavor, effortlessly balancing sweet, tangy, savory, and spicy notes. Its moderate spice level makes it an ideal accompaniment to a hearty bowl of chili, without overpowering the other flavors. When it comes to eating corn on the cob, you can’t help but get a little messy – think of it like a Sloppy Joe’s-style indulgence, smothered in mayo and chili powder alongside a satisfying serving of beans.
Roasted Mexican Zucchini
This Latin-inspired side dish is a game-changer for low-carb enthusiasts, boasting a medley of vibrant flavors that perfectly complement the tender zucchini. As the seasonings infuse into the vegetable, it transforms into a flavorful masterpiece that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
A sprinkle of cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and a generous helping of crumbled cotija cheese takes this dish to new heights, making it an ideal accompaniment to your favorite main course at lunch or dinner. And the best part? Preparing it is a breeze, as there’s no need to remove the zucchini skin – in fact, leaving it on adds a delightful textural element to the finished product.
Cilantro Lime Rice
For those who frequent Mexican restaurants, this dish is likely a familiar sight on menus or a satisfying bite enjoyed firsthand. The good news is that you can easily replicate this culinary delight at home, and as an added bonus, homemade cooking often means more generous portions of flavorful ingredients. A key to unlocking the rich flavor of rice lies in not sacrificing simmering time in broth.
When it comes to choosing herbs, feel free to get creative with a blend of basil, dill, chives, and mint – a refreshing alternative to cilantro. Our take on Cilantro Lime Rice is definitely worth trying.
Homemade Flour Tortillas
As a staple in Mexican cuisine, it’s no surprise that tortillas are often requested when serving chili. In fact, every home cook looking to master Mexican cooking should have a reliable recipe for making these soft and pliable staples at their fingertips. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of creating tortillas that strike the perfect balance between tender and crispy, without ever becoming soggy or bland.
With practice comes perfection, and since tortillas are often the base dish for many Latin meals, it’s essential to get it right – which is why this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their cooking skills.
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Savor the sweet flavor of corn in a whole new way with this vibrant salad recipe. A flavorful twist on traditional grilled corn, this Esquites-inspired dish combines succulent kernels with sautéed peppers, onions, and fresh herbs. Add a sprinkle of crumbly feta or cotija cheese for an extra burst of creamy goodness, making it the perfect side dish or light meal to enjoy anytime.
Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips
Flavorful and crispy, these chips offer a satisfying accompaniment to tomato sauce-based dishes. The simplicity of the ingredients belies their savory appeal, which is enhanced by the pungency of parmesan. While they make a delightful standalone snack, they also complement other dips like marinara and pesto, making them an excellent addition to any gathering.
Mexican Pasta Salad
Elevate your Mexican-inspired gathering with a vibrant table spread that pairs perfectly with a hearty bowl of chili. This crowd-pleasing dish is sure to delight as a main course or even stand alone. The fresh flavor profile is boosted by the addition of cucumbers, avocados, and juicy tomatoes. For a lighter side dish option, simply omit the meat – this recipe’s versatility shines through, making it a perfect choice for a meal that’s just as satisfying on its own.
Mexican Roasted Sweet Potato Cube
This root crop’s inherent sweetness renders it a scrumptious accompaniment to hearty dishes like homemade chili. The recipe’s versatility also makes it an excellent pairing for various Mexican-inspired meals, such as tacos and fajitas. When served alongside these bold flavors, the cubes’ authentic Latin flair will elevate the dining experience, leaving a lasting impression.
Crispy Patatas Bravas (Mexican Potatoes)
When it comes to these crispy fried potatoes infused with the bold flavors of Mexico, they make for an ideal accompaniment to rich and saucy dishes. This timeless recipe boasts an added advantage – its vegan and gluten-free credentials mean that all can indulge. Serve them piping hot alongside a hearty bowl of chili for a match made in heaven.
But don’t stop there; these versatile spuds can also be used as a flavorful filling for burritos and tacos or mixed into a taco salad to add some satisfying crunch. And for those concerned about the amount of oil involved in the frying process, fear not – air-frying is always an option, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this tasty treat.
Ejotes A La Mexicana (Green Beans)
A deliciously easy-to-make vegetarian side dish that complements a wide range of Mexican-inspired meals, from tacos to chili, is a flavorful green bean recipe that’s sure to please. The addition of aromatic spices and a dash of heat from the jalapenos takes this humble vegetable to new heights.
Grilled Rainbow Veggie Skewers
Elevate your table setting with a vibrant medley of roasted vegetables, cleverly arranged in kebab-style presentation. For an added twist, opt for a selection of popular Mexican sides, such as potatoes, corn, eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and onions. The real magic happens when you introduce the marinade, which is the key to infusing this vegetarian side dish with an explosion of flavors.
To truly bring out the best in these colorful delights, don’t be shy about marinating the ingredients – it’s a crucial step in creating a harmonious balance of taste and visual appeal that will complement your main course perfectly.
Mozzarella Sticks With String Cheese
When it comes to pairing sides with tomato sauce-based recipes, one classic option always stands out: a crispy, cheesy delight that’s sure to please. And when making chili, it’s hard to resist the allure of this finger food favorite. The perfect combination of textures – crunchy on the outside and gooey within – makes it an irresistible accompaniment to your meal. For added fun, consider using string cheese to add a playful touch.
Whether you’re dipping it in marinara sauce or pairing it with chili, this crowd-pleaser is sure to be a hit.
Cheesy Mexican Garlic Bread
Elevate your meal experience by combining the pungency of garlic-flavored side dishes with the bold flavors of spicy cuisine. To take it to the next level, add some textural interest by topping soft bread infused with herbs with a generous helping of shredded Mexican blend cheese. The final touch? A sprinkle of taco seasoning that will leave you craving more. This delightful combination is sure to become your go-to side dish for hearty meals like chili fresh out of the oven.
Fried Pickles
Indulge in the delightful combination of fried pickles and chili for a truly unique gastronomic experience. Those who have yet to try a fried pickle are in for a treat, with the added bonus of a spicy kick from the chili. No need to worry about sacrificing crunch for flavor; there are clever techniques to ensure the perfect texture. A simple yet effective method is to gently pat any excess moisture away with a paper towel, allowing the panko breadcrumbs to adhere perfectly to the pickles.
The key to achieving optimal crunch lies in pressing those breadcrumbs firmly onto the pickle slices before refrigerating them for several hours beforehand. This allows the coating to set and ensures a satisfying crispy finish when fried.
Steak Fajitas
When it comes to side dishes, stick to a theme that complements your main course and choose something that’s deeply rooted in Mexican cuisine. This will not only add authenticity to your meal but also provide a cohesive dining experience. Consider making homemade steak fajitas with chili bowl, which offers a restaurant-quality taste without leaving the comfort of your own kitchen.
The use of Latin-inspired spices brings out the flavor of the meat, while the variety of peppers in the filling adds a burst of deliciousness when paired with the main dish.
Pigs In A Blanket
When it comes to pairing side dishes with chili, few options are as crowd-pleasing as hot dogs. This classic combination is a staple for kids of all ages, making it an effortless choice for families. To take it to the next level, consider using crescent rolls or pizza dough to create bite-sized finger foods. Simply add some American cheese and bake until golden brown. The result is a tasty, easy-to-make snack that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Calabacitas
As the centerpiece of many a festive gathering, New Mexico’s beloved Green Chile Cornbread is a staple at events like Thanksgiving celebrations. But did you know there’s a variation to this classic recipe that’s specifically designed for those looking to save room for other dishes? This versatile side dish is sure to be a hit with your guests, and its warm, comforting aroma will fill the air as you announce it’s time to dig in.
The bottom line
I’m thrilled you had the opportunity to read through this comprehensive guide on what to serve with chili. As we explored together, each of the 42 side dish recipes showcased has its own distinct texture and flavor profile that harmonizes beautifully with a warm bowl of chili. From Green Chili Cornbread to Zucchini Fries, Cheesy Mexican Garlic Bread, Cilantro Lime Rice, and many more mouthwatering options, I invite you to experiment with these ideas and discover your new favorite combinations.
