What Goes With Chili? 5 Top Pairings for 2025

Chili is a spicy stew typically made with chili peppers, meat, beans, tomatoes, and various spices. It's believed that immigrants from the Canary Islands brought the original recipe to Texas. Today, chili is one of the most popular dishes in the US, and many American families have their own special recipe.

There are loads of different regional styles of this dish. Depending on where you’re from, the chili family recipe may be more focused on beef and chili peppers (Texas style), served over spaghetti with a unique blend of spices (Cincinnati style), or include green chili peppers and pork (New Mexico style).

This is also a recipe that's easy to make vegetarian with a variety of beans, vegetables, and spices. If you want more plant-based recipes inspired by famous dishes, check out our best vegetarian meal delivery services.

Chili has a number of traditional toppings and sides. These include everything from shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, and cilantro, to cornbread, rice, and tortilla chips. But if you’re looking for something a bit more daring, I put together several interesting and easy-to-prepare dishes that pair well with chili.

All the recipes on this page are carefully crafted by our team, including our in-house nutritionist, who also calculates the nutritional information provided. While we strive for accuracy, please note that actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

1. Broccoli-Cauliflower Salad

Ingredients

• 2 cups hard-cooked eggs (diced)

• 1 cup broccoli florets

• 1 cup cauliflower florets

• 1 cup Cheddar cheese (shredded)

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup white sugar

• 6 slices of bacon

• 2 tbsp white wine vinegar

Method

1. Place a deep skillet on medium-high heat. Add the bacon and fry it for around 10 minutes until it’s evenly browned. Drain it, remove from heat, let it cool, and break it into pieces.

2. Meanwhile, mix together mayonnaise, sugar, and vinegar in a small bowl until smooth.

3. In a medium bowl, arrange the broccoli first, then the cauliflower, then the eggs, the cheddar cheese, and finally the crumbled bacon. Pour the dressing over the top and serve. 

4. Enjoy next to a steaming bowl of chili!

Overview

If you think salads are just leafy greens, let me introduce you to this crunchy, creamy, protein-packed recipe. Loaded with fresh broccoli and cauliflower, this salad gives a satisfying bite, while the boiled eggs add richness and heartiness.

Since it’s a bit on the heavy side, you can enjoy this dish as an entree, but I also like it next to my chili. The dressing ties everything together beautifully, adding just the right amount of creaminess without overpowering the fresh flavors. 

This salad also goes well with barbecues and potlucks, and it’s a great recipe for meal planning. Whether you serve it up alongside something warm and cozy or enjoy it on its own, I think it’s a keeper.

2. Baked Potatoes

Ingredients

• 1 medium baking potato

• 2 tsp butter

• 1 tsp olive oil

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 pinch freshly ground black pepper

• ¼ cup Cheddar cheese (shredded)

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Layer a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Clean the potato well, then prick it several times with a fork or knife.

3. Rub the potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

4. Place it on the baking sheet and then in the oven. Let it bake for about 90 minutes until it’s slightly soft and has a golden-brown color. Remove from the oven.

5. Cut the potato open down the middle, add butter and black pepper, and top with shredded Cheddar cheese before serving. Enjoy!

Overview

The baked potato is a culinary marvel. It’s simple, it only takes a few ingredients, and it’s downright irresistible. 

The crispy, golden skin gives way to a soft, fluffy inside. Add a generous handful of sharp cheddar and let it melt into every nook and cranny. The best part is that you can play with the toppings, just like you do for the chili. Almost everything goes!

It’s easy to make, so you can whip one up anytime the craving hits. I love serving it as a side to chili, but it can hold its own as a meal. Add a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of green onions, or even crispy bacon if you feel fancy.

3. Cornbread Muffins

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup cornmeal

• ½ cup milk

• ⅔ cup white sugar

• ½ cup butter (softened)

• ¼ cup honey

• 2 large eggs

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp baking powder

• ¾ cup frozen corn kernels (thawed)

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare 12 muffin cups by greasing them or lining them with paper.

2. In a large bowl, beat the sugar, butter, honey, eggs, and salt until smooth. Add the flour, cornmeal, and baking powder, stirring until the mixture is thoroughly blended. 

3. Add the milk and corn kernels until combined.

4. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean.

5. Remove from the oven and let them cool down for about 15 minutes. Serve and enjoy!

Overview

These little golden beauties are tender, slightly crumbly, and oh-so-buttery. And the best part? They’re ridiculously easy to make. I whipped up a batch on a chilly evening to serve with a steaming bowl of chili, and the entire family loved them.

The muffins soak up all that spicy, savory goodness like a dream, but they’re just as delicious with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey. The kernels add a little pop of sweetness to every bite, making them completely irresistible.

Whether you're serving them at a barbecue, alongside soup, or just enjoying one warm from the oven, these cornbread muffins are a must-make.

4. Creamy Spiced Coleslaw

Ingredients

• 1 (16 oz) package shredded coleslaw mix

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 2 tbsp cider vinegar

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp pepper

• ½ tsp celery seed

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

Method

1. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar, cider vinegar, salt, pepper, celery seed, garlic powder, and onion powder until fully mixed. 

2. Add in the coleslaw mix and stir until it’s evenly coated. 

3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. Enjoy with a bowl of hot chili!

Overview

Coleslaw is always a good idea no matter the entree, but this version was a game-changer for me. Packed with bold, well-balanced seasonings, it’s got just the right amount of tang, a touch of sweetness, and a subtle kick that keeps you coming back for more. 

The crunchy cabbage soaks up all that creamy, flavorful dressing, making every bite better than the last. It’s the perfect side for smoky grilled meats, but I also love piling it onto a pulled pork sandwich or serving it with a hearty bowl of chili (trust me on this one). 

It’s fresh, it’s vibrant, and it’s anything but boring. If you think coleslaw is just a filler side, this version will change your mind!

5. Cheddar Onion Biscuits

Ingredients

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup 1% buttermilk

• 1 ½ cups sharp Cheddar cheese (shredded)

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)

• 3 tbsp cold butter

• 1 tbsp dried minced onion

• ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

Method

• Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. 

• Using your hands or a mixer, integrate the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. 

• Add in the shredded Cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and minced onion. Pour in the buttermilk and mix until combined.

• Portion the batter into ¼ cupfuls and drop each dollop onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave about 2 inches between each biscuit. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the biscuit tops are lightly browned. Serve warm.

Overview

There’s something about the combination of sharp cheddar, parmesan, and sweet caramelized onions that turns a simple biscuit into a full-on comfort food experience. These are buttery, flaky, and packed with rich, savory goodness.

I made a batch on a chilly evening to go with a big bowl of homemade chili. The cheesy, slightly crispy edges and soft, pillowy center just soaked up all that hearty goodness. 

But they’re not just for winter! In the summer, I love pairing them with a fresh, crisp salad for a lighter but still satisfying meal. They’re also dangerously snackable on their own – I may or may not have eaten one straight off the baking sheet (no regrets).

FAQ

What are some classic sides to serve with chili?

Classic sides for chili include warm cornbread, crispy tortilla chips, and hearty baked potatoes or rice. Fresh options like a green salad or tangy coleslaw add balance, while a sprinkle of sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced onions complete the dish.

What unique or unconventional sides can I try with chili?

Try pairing it with crispy onion rings, loaded tater tots, or cheesy quesadillas. Roasted cauliflower, garlic mashed sweet potatoes, or a tangy cucumber slaw also bring an unexpected burst of flavor. For a fun dining experience, bake some Cornbread Muffins and add them to the table.

Can I serve a salad or fresh veggies alongside my chili?

A crisp salad or fresh veggies are a great pairing for chili. A light green salad, tangy coleslaw, or even sliced cucumbers offer a refreshing contrast that cools the heat and adds a healthy crunch. If you’re looking for something heartier, try a Broccoli-Cauliflower Salad.

What toppings or garnishes enhance a bowl of chili?

Toppings like shredded cheddar, tangy sour cream, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro add flavor and texture. Other favorites include diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, avocado chunks, and crunchy tortilla chips. If you want to keep things simple, try a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili powder.

Are there healthier side options for chili?

Chili is a hearty meal, and you can add up the calories with toppings and heavy sides. To keep things healthier, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad or fresh veggies like steamed broccoli, roasted Brussels sprouts, or green beans. A light cucumber or tomato salad with a tangy vinaigrette or baked sweet potato fries offers a nutritious twist without weighing you down.