15 Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Chili Beans

A hearty pot of chili beans makes for a satisfying comfort food meal. But what should you serve alongside the protein-packed beans and zesty chili sauce? With the right side dishes you can take your chili beans from delicious to extraordinary.

Complementing flavors, textures, colors and nutrition levels is key. Here are 15 of the best side options to serve with chili beans to make it a well-rounded dining experience

1. Cornbread

Warm, fluffy cornbread is a beloved companion for chili. Its slight sweetness balances the spice, and the crumbly texture provides an interesting contrast to the creamy beans Skillet cornbread, jalapeño cheddar cornbread or even broccoli cornbread are all excellent options. The golden cornbread topping gives your chili beans a down-home, comfort food feel.

2. Potato Skins

For a fun finger food pairing, baked potato skins are ideal. Load the crispy potato boats up with chili beans, melted cheese, bacon bits and scallions. Or offer the skins on the side with assorted toppings for customization. Potato skins provide a hearty crunch that pairs nicely with chili’s richness.

3. Baked Potatoes

Take potato skins one step further with fully loaded baked potatoes on the side. A hot baked potato is comforting, filling and a great way to soak up chili juices. Let guests customize their spuds with chili beans, shredded cheese, sour cream, scallions and any other favorite toppings.

4. Tacos

Build your own taco night is a no-fail pairing for chili. Allow guests to fill soft tortillas with chili beans, their choice of meat, cheese, lettuce, pico de gallo and other favorite taco toppings. The fresh components provide contrast and help cut the richness.

5. Cinnamon Rolls

For a sweet touch, warm, gooey cinnamon rolls are an unexpected but delightful side for chili beans. Their swirled dough provides a pleasant texture contrast, while the sweet glaze helps balance the spice. Make or buy cinnamon rolls for a comforting chili companion.

6. Salad

A fresh salad or chopped veggie side is key for balance. The crispy greens, tomatoes, onions and peppers add color. Their crunch and subtle flavors contrast the hearty chili and provide nutrition. Build a customized salad bar, or try corn and tomato salad.

7. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Nothing says comfort food like ooey-gooey grilled cheese sandwiches. Served alongside a bowl of chili beans, grilled cheese offers a nostalgic, crave-worthy pairing. For fun, try cutting them into sticks or roll-ups for dipping in the chili. Pick your favorite cheese or cheeses for melting.

8. Nachos

For ultimate customization, set up a nacho bar with chips, chili beans, shredded cheese, jalapeños, salsa, guacamole, sour cream and other favorite nacho toppers. Guests can build their own plate, adding as much chili flavor as they want. The crunch of the chips balances the creaminess of the beans.

9. Guacamole

Creamy, tangy guacamole served with chips or veggies helps cut the richness of the chili. The cool avocado contrast paired with chips or crudités completes the meal for texture and flavor interest. Let guests customize with hot sauce and lime.

10. Quesadillas

Warm, melty quesadillas are another great accompaniment, especially when served with guacamole and salsa for dipping. Fill flour or corn tortillas with Monterey jack or pepper jack cheese. The melted cheese and soft tortilla offer comforting contrast to the hearty chili beans.

11. Fried Green Tomatoes

For Southern flair, try fried green tomatoes. Their juicy tartness and crispy, golden crust makes a delicious pairing. Offer chili beans for topping, or just serve the fried green tomatoes on the side. They add freshness that balances the decadence.

12. Cheesy Garlic Bread

Warm, garlicky, buttery bread loaded with mozzarella is comfort food at its finest alongside a bowl of chili. The strong flavors complement each other for a satisfying meal. Prepared or homemade, cheesy garlic bread rounds out the chili bean dining experience.

13. Corn on the Cob

In summer, char grilled corn on the cob makes for a perfect chili side. The natural sweetness complements the spice, and the juicy kernels offer great textural contrast. Slather grilled corn in butter, sprinkle with chili powder and sprinkle cotija cheese for Mexican-style elote.

14. Coleslaw

Cool, creamy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch to balance chili’s warmth. The lightly dressed shredded cabbage with carrot and onion provides crisp texture that pairs beautifully with the beans. Try peppery or vinegar-based slaws for more zip.

15. Corn Muffins

Finally, moist corn muffins are another excellent side option with chili beans. They provide the same flavor as cornbread in tidy individual portions with a pretty presentation. The tender crumb soaks up chili juices nicely. Add diced jalapeños for extra spice.

With so many delicious options, from cinnamon rolls to coleslaw, there are endless ways to complement your chili beans. Using contrasting textures, bright flavors and fun customized additions prevents meal monotony. Next chili night, take your beans up a notch with these tasty sides.