What To Serve With Chicken Chili

Chicken chili is an incredibly versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

It’s easy to prepare and can be customized for anyone’s tastes.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special to serve at your next gathering, these 15 dishes will make sure your chicken chili is the star of the show!

From classic sides like cornbread and coleslaw to new takes on traditional recipes like mac ‘n’ cheese and sweet potato fries, there’s something here to please everyone.

Let’s dive in and explore all the delicious options!

Why These Side Dishes Goes Well With Chicken Chili– By Chef Natalie

To save you time, and to make your decision easy, I have built a nice chart on why these side dishes go well with Chicken Chili!

Side Dish	Why it Goes Well with Chicken Chili
Cornbread	The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread complements the savory and hearty flavors of chicken chili.
Coleslaw	The refreshing and crunchy coleslaw provides a cool contrast to the warm and spicy chicken chili, balancing the flavors.
Mac And Cheese	The creamy and cheesy mac and cheese adds a comforting and indulgent element to the meal, complementing the chicken chili.
Sweet Potato Fries	The crispy and slightly sweet sweet potato fries offer a delightful contrast to the bold flavors of the chicken chili.
Fruit Salad	The light and refreshing fruit salad provides a refreshing and palate-cleansing component to enjoy alongside the chicken chili.
Corn On The Cob	The sweet and juicy corn on the cob pairs well with the flavors of the chicken chili, adding a delightful and seasonal touch.
Potato Salad	The creamy and tangy potato salad adds a flavorful and comforting side dish that complements the chicken chili.
Baked Potatoes	The fluffy and tender baked potatoes provide a neutral base that can be paired with the flavors and toppings of the chicken chili.
Green Beans	The crisp and vibrant green beans offer a fresh and nutritious side dish that complements the richness of the chicken chili.
Garlic Bread	The aromatic and buttery garlic bread is a perfect accompaniment to the chicken chili, ideal for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Caesar Salad	The crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and tangy dressing in a Caesar salad provide a refreshing and balanced side to the chili.
Roasted Vegetables	The caramelized flavors and tender texture of roasted vegetables add depth and variety to the meal, enhancing the chicken chili.
Biscuits	The warm and flaky biscuits offer a comforting and versatile side that pairs well with the heartiness of the chicken chili.
Chips And Salsa	The crunchy chips and zesty salsa provide a flavorful and enjoyable snack to enjoy alongside the chicken chili.
Rice Pilaf	The light and fluffy rice pilaf serves as a neutral base that can be paired with the flavorful chicken chili for a satisfying meal.

 

 

1. Cornbread

Cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to a steaming hot bowl of chicken chili.

The fluffy, buttery texture of cornbread is the ideal contrast to the spicy kick of chili, and its sweet flavor complements all the hearty ingredients in the dish.

Best of all, it’s so easy to make that anyone can do it!

 

 

To make cornbread, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients.

Start with some self-rising cornmeal mix, which contains all the necessary leavening agents for your bread.

Then add some melted butter or vegetable oil for richness and flavor; an egg for structure; buttermilk or milk for moisture; and sugar for sweetness.

Mix these ingredients together until you have a thick batter, then pour it into a greased baking dish.

Pop your cornbread in a preheated oven until golden brown on top and cooked through in the center.

Serve up warm slices with your chicken chili – they’re sure to be a hit!

2. Coleslaw

For the perfect accompaniment to the hearty dish of chicken chili, cornbread is an absolute must.

With its crunchy exterior and fluffy center, this classic side gives a delicious contrast to the creamy chili.

 

 

Paired with a buttery spread, it’s an unbeatable combination for any meal.

Continuing on with the sides, coleslaw is a great option for adding some crunch and freshness to your plate.

Crisp cabbage and carrots are tossed in a light dressing of mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar and spices.

The result is a flavorful salad that will pick up all the flavors of the chili.

Here are some other ideas to pair with your chicken chili:

• Salads – Caesar salad or mixed greens with vinaigrette
• Grains – Rice pilaf or quinoa
• Bread – Biscuits or garlic bread

No matter what you choose to serve alongside your chicken chili, you can be sure that each component will bring something special to the table.

From crunchy coleslaw and cornbread to flavorful salads and grains, there’s something for everyone at your table.

3. Mac And Cheese

Mac and cheese is a classic side dish to serve with chili.

Its creamy, cheesy goodness pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of the chili.

And because it’s so easy to make, you can whip up a tasty side in no time.

 

 

Start by cooking up some elbow macaroni according to the instructions on the box.

Next, make a roux using butter, flour and milk.

Stir in your favorite shredded cheeses until the sauce is thick and creamy.

Then fold in your cooked macaroni.

To finish off this delicious side dish, top it with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added crunch and flavor.

Serve alongside your homemade chicken chili for a meal that’s sure to please every palate!

4. Sweet Potato Fries

Moving on from mac and cheese, sweet potato fries are a great accompaniment to chicken chili.

The subtle sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the flavors of the chili, while the crunchy texture of the fries provides a pleasing contrast against the softness of the stew.

 

 

Sweet potato fries can be baked in the oven at high temperatures for crispy results or pan-fried in oil for a softer option.

They are also incredibly versatile and can be seasoned with herbs, spices, or Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

When making sweet potato fries to serve with chicken chili, it’s best to start by cutting them into thin strips.

This will ensure they cook evenly and quickly so that they are ready in time to enjoy with your chili.

Additionally, make sure to not overcrowd your pan when frying them so that each fry gets plenty of space and has an opportunity to crisp up nicely.

Once your fries are cooked, you’ll have a delicious side dish that adds both flavor and texture to your meal.

For those looking for something unique, consider topping your sweet potato fries with freshly chopped cilantro and diced jalapeno peppers for a Mexican-inspired twist.

This adds just enough heat without overpowering the other flavors of your dish and ensures that everyone enjoys every bite.

5. Fruit Salad

Fruit salad is a classic accompaniment to a hearty bowl of chicken chili.

It’s light and sweet, which helps balance out the richness of the chili.

 

 

Plus, it’s easy to make and always looks great on the plate.

Here are three simple recipes that will turn your dinner into a complete feast:

1. Berries with Citrus Honey Syrup: Start by combining a pint of raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed orange juice and honey until it forms a syrup. Pour over the berries and mix gently to combine. Serve chilled for a refreshing contrast to the heat of the chili.

2. Tropical Pineapple Salad: Cube fresh pineapple, mangoes, bananas and kiwis into bite-sized pieces and place them in a medium-sized bowl. Drizzle over some lime juice for an extra zingy flavor. You can also add in some coconut flakes or mini marshmallows if you want an even sweeter touch!

3. Grape & Spinach Salad: Begin by tossing together 2 cups of baby spinach leaves with 1 cup of halved red grapes in a large bowl until evenly mixed. Then top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts for crunchiness before adding your favorite vinaigrette dressing – this adds another layer of flavor that will take your dish up a notch!

Fruit salad is sure to be an ideal match for your chicken chili – with its bright colors and vibrant flavors it’ll bring life to any dinner table!

6. Corn On The Cob

After the sweet and tangy fruit salad, it’s time to move on to something a bit heartier – corn on the cob! A classic summer side dish, this crowd-pleasing vegetable is the perfect accompaniment to any meal.

Whether you’re grilling up some chicken chili or serving up burgers and dogs at your next cookout, adding a little corn to the plate will make your meal complete.

When shopping for corn on the cob, you’ll want to look for ears that are bright yellow or green in color, with tight husks and silk that feels moist.

Always avoid ears of corn that have dry and brittle husks or dried out silk.

To get the best taste from your corn on the cob, don’t buy it too far ahead of time; freshness is key!

Preparation Method	Cooking Time	Taste Profile
Boiling	10-15 minutes	Sweet and nutty flavor
Grilling	15-20 minutes	Slightly smoky and charred taste
Microwaving	5-7 minutes	Soft yet crunchy texture with mild flavor

The possibilities are endless when it comes to preparing corn on the cob.

Boiling is a classic way to prepare this summer vegetable, yielding a sweet and nutty flavor.

Grilling your corn will give it a slightly smoky and charred taste while microwaving results in a soft yet crunchy texture with a mild flavor.

Whichever method you choose, adding an ear of delicious grilled or boiled corn to your plate will be sure to please all guests at your next gathering!

7. Potato Salad

Potato salad is a classic accompaniment to chicken chili, offering texture and a cooling complement to the spiciness of the chili.

Its creamy, slightly tart dressing adds another layer of flavor that helps bring out the best in the chili.

An ideal potato salad should be made with boiled potatoes that are still firm enough to hold their shape but tender enough to cut easily with a fork.

For this dish, I like to use red-skinned potatoes for their beautiful color and buttery flavor.

For the dressing, I always opt for a mayonnaise base as it has just the right amount of richness and tanginess.

I add some white wine vinegar for extra acidity, dijon mustard for a subtle heat, and a bit of lemon juice for brightness.

A pinch of sugar helps balance everything out perfectly.

The key to making great potato salad is in the seasoning; you need just enough salt to bring out all those wonderful flavors.

The herbs are also important as they give an herbal lift that ties together all the other elements nicely and makes it taste even better when eaten with chicken chili.

With these simple ingredients combined in just the right way, you can create an excellent side dish that will make your dinner extra special.

8. Baked Potatoes

Baked potatoes are a delicious way to accompany your chicken chili.

Not only can you top them off with your favorite chili toppings, but you can also get creative in the kitchen! Whether you prefer to bake, mash, or fry them, potatoes are the perfect side to round out your meal.

When baking a potato, it’s important to keep in mind that there are several ways to do it. You can:

• Bake them in the oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F and scrub the potatoes clean.

• Pierce each potato several times with a fork and rub with olive oil and sea salt before wrapping in foil.

• Place on a baking sheet and cook for 45-60 minutes.

• Microwave them:

• Scrub and pierce the potatoes as above.

• Place on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for 8-10 minutes until tender.

No matter how you choose to prepare your potatoes, they will be sure to bring some delightful flavor and texture to your meal! Potato recipes offer endless possibilities so take your time experimenting with different methods of cooking these yummy spuds.

9. Green Beans

The comforting aroma of a bubbling pot of chicken chili is enough to make one’s mouth water.

But what would really take this dish to the next level? The answer lies in the perfect side dish – green beans.

Green beans are a classic accompaniment to any hearty meal, and they just so happen to pair perfectly with chicken chili.

The crunchy texture and earthy flavor of the green beans balance out the spicy richness of the chili, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Not to mention, green beans add an additional layer of nutrition that makes this meal even more satisfying.

Toss together some fresh green beans with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, then pop them in the oven for about 20 minutes.

Serve alongside your favorite chicken chili recipe for a flavorful combination that will have your family asking for seconds.

10. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to chicken chili.

Nothing beats the warm, buttery aroma that fills the room as it bakes in the oven.

It’s a classic favorite and can be enjoyed by all ages.

When it comes to preparing garlic bread, there are a few easy steps you can follow to ensure your loaf turns out perfectly every time:

• Preheat oven to 375°F.
• Spread softened butter on each slice of bread and top with freshly minced garlic and parsley.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

The result is a garlicky treat that not only tastes delicious but looks beautiful too – perfect for sharing at dinner parties or family gatherings.

For an extra twist, why not try adding some grated cheese for added flavor?

Whatever you choose, garlic bread will make an excellent addition to your chicken chili meal.

11. Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad is the perfect accompaniment to chicken chili.

It adds crunch and texture to this comforting dish, and its bright acids cut through the richness of the chili.

The classic version includes Parmesan, garlic, croutons, anchovies, and a creamy dressing made with egg yolks, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, mustard and olive oil.

If you’re feeling adventurous you can try different variations such as adding grilled vegetables or substituting kale for romaine lettuce.

Whether you choose to stick with a traditional Caesar salad recipe or try something more creative, it’s sure to be a hit alongside your chili.

Be sure to dress the salad with just enough dressing so that every bite is lightly coated – too much dressing will weigh down the delicate greens.

Serve up a bowl of chicken chili alongside an artfully composed Caesar salad for an unforgettable meal!

12. Roasted Vegetables

Moving on from the creamy crunch of Caesar Salad, we come to Roasted Vegetables.

A colorful medley of roasted vegetables is the perfect accompaniment to a bowl of chicken chili.

The sweetness of roasted carrots and sweet potatoes, the savory bite of garlic, and the earthy flavor of mushrooms combine for a delicious side dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

For a simple yet flavorful side dish, preheat your oven to 425°F.

Begin by chopping up any combination of vegetables you like – potatoes, bell peppers, squash, asparagus and onions are all great choices.

Toss in some fresh herbs or spices and spread onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper before popping into the oven for 15-20 minutes.

You’ll want to stir the vegetables halfway through so they cook evenly.

Once removed from the oven, these golden-brown veggies will be tender throughout while still retaining their crunch in certain spots.

Serve alongside your chicken chili for an easy and nutritious meal that’s truly mouthwatering!

13. Biscuits

Biscuits are a perfect accompaniment to chicken chili.

Their flaky, buttery texture is the perfect contrast to the spicy kick of the chili.

With just a few simple ingredients and some elbow grease, you can make light, fluffy biscuits that will melt in your mouth.

To ensure that your biscuits come out perfectly every time, start by preheating your oven.

Gather together all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and milk for the dough.

Once you’ve mixed everything together and shaped it into circles on a lightly floured baking sheet, pop them in the oven for about 15 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Serve them as-is or with a pat of butter and honey for an extra delicious treat! There’s nothing like homemade biscuits to add a special touch to any meal—especially when served with chicken chili!

14. Chips And Salsa

Nothing goes better with a hearty bowl of chicken chili than some crunchy chips and zesty salsa.

The two are a match made in heaven, adding the perfect layer of flavor and texture to your meal.

Start by laying out your favorite tortilla chips on a large plate or platter.

Then, top them off with freshly-made salsa- diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapenos, lime juice, and cumin all come together to make the perfect condiment.

You can make it as spicy as you like – mild for those who don’t want too much heat or extra hot for those who do!

For an even more flavorful experience, consider making your own homemade pico de gallo with diced bell peppers, garlic powder, and oregano.

Finally, enjoy every last bite of your delicious meal- the perfect combination of savory chili and crunchy chips and salsa.

15. Rice Pilaf

Chicken chili is one of those dishes that can be enjoyed year round.

From a cool summer night to a chilly winter day, this comforting and flavorful dish will always hit the spot.

Chips and salsa are the perfect accompaniment, but if you’re looking for something more substantial, why not try a side of rice pilaf?

Rice pilaf is an easy way to add texture and flavor to any meal.

It’s simple to make and goes great with chicken chili.

The ingredients for rice pilaf are usually pantry staples, making it an economical choice as well.

Here is what you’ll need:

• Rice
• Onion
• Any other vegetables of your choice (mushrooms, carrots, celery etc.)
• Oil or butter
• Broth or water

To make the dish, start by sautéing the onion in oil or butter until it’s softened.

Then add in any other vegetables you want to include and cook until they’re tender.

Next, add in the rice and stir until all of the ingredients are well combined before pouring in your broth or water.

Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing heat to low and simmering until all of liquid has evaporated.

Fluff with a fork before serving as a delicious side dish alongside chicken chili!

Conclusion

When it comes to serving chicken chili, the side dishes you choose can really make or break your meal.

I love to pair my chili with a combination of savory and sweet sides like cornbread, coleslaw, mac and cheese, sweet potato fries, fruit salad, and roasted vegetables.

For a heartier option, try adding biscuits, chips and salsa, or rice pilaf.

All these delicious sides will elevate your chili dinner to the next level.

With just a few simple ingredients you can create an unforgettable feast your family won’t soon forget!