Explore a world of flavor with our mouthwatering sides for chili! From classic cornbread to creative twists, discover the perfect accompaniments when enjoying a big bowl of chili.
Chili, with its bold and hearty flavors, is a comfort food favorite that deserves equally delicious side dishes.
While the combination of chili and cornbread is a classic choice.
Explore a variety of the best sides that will elevate your chili nights to a new level!
The next time you’re simmering a pot of your favorite chili recipe, consider these easy side dish companions.
So what side dishes go with chili?
15 Best Side Dishes for Chili
Cornbread:
A classic side dish, cornbread’s slightly sweet and crumbly texture makes it the perfect accompaniment to the hearty flavors of chili.
Avocado Salsa Fresca:
Fresh avocados, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro create a vibrant salsa that adds a zesty kick to your chili.
Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers:
The cheesy and spicy flavors of jalapeno poppers is a delightful finger food to enjoy alongside a warm bowl of chili.
Sweet Potato Fries:
Crispy air fryer sweet potato fries add a hint of sweetness that contrasts well with the savory notes of chili.
Loaded Nachos:
Create a nacho extravaganza with toppings like melted cheese, jalapeños, sour cream, and guacamole.
Cheddar and Green Onion Biscuits:
Flaky, cheesy biscuits with the added kick of green onions make for a comforting side dish.
Chili Cheese Fries:
Upgrade your french fries with a generous topping of chili and melted cheddar cheese for a satisfying indulgence.
Black Bean and Corn Salad:
A vibrant salad with black beans, corn, and a zesty dressing adds freshness and texture to your chili feast.
Macaroni and Cheese:
Creamy mac and cheese is a comfort food classic that pairs well with the bold flavors of a hearty bowl of chili.
Grilled Cheese:
Wondering what sandwich goes best with chili? The combination of melted cheese and buttery, crispy bread of grilled cheese complements the warmth and richness of the chili for a hearty and flavorful combination.
Rice:
Fluffy white rice, brown rice or Spanish rice can be served alongside chili to create a heartier meal.
Baked Potatoes:
Make a baked potato bar, allowing guests to customize their toppings with chili, cheese, and sour cream.
Mini Corn Dogs
Mini Corn Dogs make the perfect side dish for chili with their irresistible combination of crispy cornmeal coating and savory bite-sized hot dogs, providing a delightful contrast in texture and flavor to enhance your chili experience.
Simple Salad
A simple green salad serves as a refreshing contrast for chili, offering a light and palate-cleansing contrast to the hearty and bold flavors of the chili.
Cheesy Breadsticks
Cheesy breadsticks are an excellent side dish for chili, providing a warm and gooey accompaniment with their soft, buttery interior and melted cheese topping that complements the robust flavors of the chili.
These diverse side dishes offer a range of textures, flavors, and temperatures to complement your chili, making your meal a delicious and well-rounded experience.
Relevant Recipes
- Best Comfort Food recipes
- Caesar Salad Recipe
- Game Day Cream Cheese Football Dip
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Tips For Chili Side Dishes:
- Aim for a balance of textures and flavors with sides that contrast the heartiness of chili.
- Adjust the spiciness of sides based on the heat level of your chili for a harmonious dining experience.
- Set up a toppings bar with your favorite toppings – shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and more, allowing everyone to personalize their chili experience.
- Consider pairing your chili with refreshing beverages like iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer to complement the warmth of the dish.