Chili is a hearty and comforting dish that warms you up on cold days. It’s packed with flavor and can be made in many different ways.
But what should you serve with it?
Adding the right side dishes can turn your chili into a complete meal.
From classic options like cornbread to new ideas like potato skins, there are many tasty choices.
This guide will help you find the perfect sides to make your chili dinner even better.
1. Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic side dish for chili. Its slightly sweet flavor balances out the spiciness of the chili.
The texture is crumbly yet moist, perfect for soaking up the chili’s sauce.
You can make cornbread from scratch or use a mix. Add jalapeños or cheese for extra flavor. Serve it warm with a pat of butter on top.
For a twist, try cornbread muffins instead of a single pan. They’re easier to serve and portion.
You can also make skillet cornbread for a crispy crust.
2. Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Cheesy garlic breadsticks are a perfect match for chili. They’re warm, gooey, and full of flavor.
You can easily make them at home or buy them from your local bakery.
The garlic adds a zesty kick that goes well with chili’s spices. The cheese creates a creamy contrast to the hearty beans and meat. Plus, the bread helps soak up any extra sauce.
These breadsticks are great for dipping into your chili. You can break them into smaller pieces or use them whole.
They’re also good for cleaning your bowl when you’re done.
Kids and adults both love cheesy garlic breadsticks. They’re a crowd-pleaser at parties or family dinners. Try them next time you make chili for a tasty combo.
3. Fresh Avocado Slices
Fresh avocado slices are a perfect side for chili. They add a cool, creamy texture that balances the spicy dish.
You can simply slice a ripe avocado and serve it alongside your chili bowl. The mild flavor complements the bold chili tastes.
Avocados also provide healthy fats and nutrients. Their smooth texture contrasts nicely with chunky chili ingredients.
Try fanning out avocado slices on top of your chili. Or serve them on a small plate for people to add as they like.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro lime rice adds a zesty kick to your chili meal. This fresh side dish balances the rich flavors of chili with its bright taste.
To make it, cook white rice and mix in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and zest. The result is a light, fluffy rice with vibrant flavors.
You can serve the rice alongside your chili or use it as a base. Spoon the chili over a bed of cilantro lime rice for a tasty combo.
This side dish brings a Mexican-inspired flair to your meal. It’s easy to make and adds color to your plate.
5. Jalapeño Poppers
Jalapeño poppers make a tasty side dish for chili. These spicy appetizers add an extra kick to your meal. The creamy cheese filling balances out the heat of the peppers.
You can make jalapeño poppers ahead of time and reheat them when serving chili. They’re easy to eat alongside a bowl of chili. The crunchy breading provides a nice texture contrast.
For a fun twist, try stuffing the poppers with chili-flavored cream cheese. This ties the flavors together even more. Serve the poppers on a platter next to your chili for easy snacking.
6. Crusty Baguette
A crusty baguette is a perfect side for chili. Its crisp exterior and soft interior provide a nice contrast to the hearty stew.
You can slice the baguette and serve it plain or toast it for extra crunch. For added flavor, spread garlic butter on the slices before toasting.
Use the bread to scoop up chili or dip it in the broth. It’s great for soaking up any leftover sauce in your bowl.
7. Mexican Street Corn
Mexican street corn adds a festive touch to your chili meal. This tasty side dish brings a burst of flavor and texture to your plate.
Grilled corn on the cob is slathered with a creamy mixture of mayo, cheese, and spices. The result is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes.
You can easily make this at home. Grill corn until lightly charred, then coat it with the mayo mixture. Sprinkle on some chili powder and lime juice for extra zing.
Serve your Mexican street corn alongside a steaming bowl of chili. The combination of flavors will make your taste buds dance with joy.
8. Buttermilk Biscuits
Buttermilk biscuits make a great side for chili. They’re soft, flaky, and perfect for soaking up the chili’s sauce.
You can serve them warm, straight from the oven. Cut them in half and spread some butter on top for extra flavor.
These biscuits also work well for making mini chili sandwiches. Just split them and spoon some chili in the middle.
If you want to save time, you can use store-bought biscuits. But homemade ones taste even better if you have the chance to make them.
9. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries make a tasty side for chili. They add a touch of sweetness to balance the spicy flavors.
You can bake or fry these orange-hued treats. Baking is healthier and still gives you a crispy outside.
Cut sweet potatoes into thin strips. Toss with oil and spices like salt, pepper, and paprika. Spread on a baking sheet and cook until golden brown.
Serve your fries hot alongside a bowl of chili. The combo of textures and flavors will delight your taste buds.
10. Guacamole
Guacamole is a tasty side dish that pairs well with chili. You can make it by mashing ripe avocados and mixing in lime juice, diced onions, and chopped cilantro.
Add some diced tomatoes and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. For extra kick, mix in some minced jalapeño peppers.
Serve your guacamole in a bowl next to the chili. You can use it as a dip for tortilla chips or spread it on top of your chili for added creaminess and flavor.
11. Coleslaw
Coleslaw makes a great side dish for chili. Its cool, crisp texture contrasts nicely with the hot, hearty chili.
You can make a simple coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing. Add some vinegar for tang and a touch of sugar for sweetness.
For extra crunch, try mixing in some chopped apples or nuts. You can also experiment with different types of cabbage or add herbs like cilantro or dill for more flavor.
Coleslaw brings a refreshing element to your meal and helps balance out the spiciness of the chili.
12. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a perfect match for chili. They offer a crunchy texture and gooey melted cheese that complements the hearty stew.
You can make a basic grilled cheese with bread and your favorite melting cheese. Cheddar, American, or Swiss work well. Butter the outside of the bread for a golden, crispy crust.
For extra flavor, try adding herbs or spices to the cheese. Garlic powder or dried basil can give your sandwich a tasty twist.
Dip your grilled cheese into the chili for a delicious combination. The warm sandwich soaks up the chili’s flavors, creating a satisfying bite.
13. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers make a great side dish for chili. You can fill them with rice, ground beef, or turkey. Add some veggies like tomatoes, onions, and zucchini to the stuffing.
The peppers bring different textures and flavors that go well with chili. Their colorful appearance also makes your meal look more appetizing.
For a vegetarian option, try stuffing the peppers with beans and quinoa instead of meat. Top them with cheese for extra flavor. Serve the stuffed peppers alongside your chili for a filling and tasty meal.
14. Quesadillas
Quesadillas make a tasty side dish for chili. You can fill them with cheese, beans, or meat to complement your main course.
Try making mini quesadillas as bite-sized appetizers. Cut small circles from tortillas and fold them over with your favorite fillings.
Serve quesadillas alongside chili for a satisfying Mexican-inspired meal. The crispy exterior and gooey cheese inside pair well with the hearty chili.
For extra flavor, add some chili spices to your quesadilla filling. This ties the side dish to the main course nicely.
15. Tortilla Chips and Salsa
Tortilla chips and salsa make a quick and tasty side for chili. The crunchy chips provide a nice contrast to the thick, hearty chili.
Salsa adds a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the spices in your chili. You can choose mild or spicy salsa to suit your taste.
This combo is easy to serve and requires no prep. Just open a bag of chips and a jar of salsa.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
You can also use the chips to scoop up your chili for a fun twist on the meal. The salty crunch pairs well with the rich chili flavors.
16. Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a refreshing side dish for chili. Its crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing offer a nice contrast to the hearty chili.
You can make a basic Caesar salad with romaine, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing. The cool, crunchy texture pairs well with the warm, soft chili.
For a quick option, you can use pre-made dressing and croutons. Or make your own dressing with garlic, anchovies, egg yolks, lemon juice, and olive oil for a fresher taste.
Adding grilled chicken or shrimp to the salad can make it a more filling side dish.
17. Baked Potatoes
Baked potatoes make a great side for chili. They’re easy to prepare and very filling. You can serve them whole with the chili on top or on the side.
To make baked potatoes, start by washing them well. Poke a few holes in the skin with a fork. Rub some olive oil on the outside and sprinkle with salt.
Bake the potatoes in a 425°F oven for about an hour until they’re soft inside. The skin should be crispy. Cut them open and add your favorite toppings.
Try butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon bits, or green onions. The fluffy potato goes really well with hearty chili. It’s a comforting and satisfying combo.
18. Churros
Churros offer a sweet twist to your chili meal. These crispy, golden pastries provide a nice contrast to the savory chili flavors.
You can serve churros as a dessert after your chili or as a unique side dish. Their cinnamon-sugar coating adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spicy chili.
For extra indulgence, dip your churros in chocolate sauce or dulce de leche. This combination creates a delightful mix of textures and tastes that complement your chili dinner.
Try serving mini churros as a fun finger food alongside your chili bowl. This unexpected pairing can add a playful element to your meal.
19. Macaroni and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a classic side dish that goes great with chili. The creamy, cheesy pasta balances out the spicy flavors of the chili.
You can make mac and cheese from scratch or use a boxed mix for convenience. Try using sharp cheddar for extra flavor. Add some breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture.
For a twist, mix in some diced jalapeños or crispy bacon bits. You can also sprinkle chili powder on top to tie the flavors together with your main dish.
Serve your mac and cheese hot alongside a bowl of chili for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Benefits of Chili Sides
Adding sides to your chili can boost its nutritional value. The right choices can increase your fiber and protein intake.
Enhancing Fiber Intake
Fiber-rich sides can make your chili meal more filling and healthier. Beans are a great option.
A half-cup of black beans adds about 7 grams of fiber to your meal.
Whole grain cornbread is another smart choice. It provides more fiber than white bread versions.
A small piece can give you 2-3 grams of fiber.
Veggie sides like broccoli or a mixed green salad are fiber powerhouses. A cup of raw broccoli has about 2 grams of fiber.
A side salad with 2 cups of mixed greens can add 3-4 grams.
Increasing Protein Content
Protein-packed sides can turn your chili into a more balanced meal. Greek yogurt is a protein-rich topping.
A quarter-cup serving adds about 5 grams of protein.
Quinoa is another protein-boosting option. A half-cup of cooked quinoa provides about 4 grams of protein.
It’s also a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids.
Cheese is a tasty way to add protein. An ounce of cheddar cheese sprinkled on top of your chili adds about 7 grams of protein.
Choose low-fat versions to keep calories in check.
Pairing Beverages with Chili and Sides
The right drinks can enhance your chili meal. Good pairings balance flavors and refresh your palate between bites.
Beer Varieties
Light lagers work well with mild chilis. Try a crisp Pilsner or Kolsch to cleanse your palate.
For spicier chilis, go with an IPA. The hoppy bitterness cuts through heat and fat.
Amber and brown ales complement chili’s hearty flavors. Their maltiness balances spice and adds depth.
Dark stouts pair nicely with smoky chilis. Their roasted notes echo charred peppers and beef.
Wheat beers are great all-around chili partners. Their light body and subtle fruit notes go with many chili styles.
Non-Alcoholic Options
Iced tea is a classic chili companion. Sweet tea cools spice, while unsweetened balances rich flavors.
For a twist, try hibiscus or fruit-infused teas.
Lemonade offers bright acidity to cut through fatty toppings. Mix in some sparkling water for a bubbly kick.
Horchata, a creamy rice drink, soothes spicy chilis. Its cinnamon notes complement chili spices.
For a cooling effect, blend in frozen fruit to make a smoothie.
Tomato juice or V8 echoes chili’s savory notes. Add a dash of hot sauce for extra zip.