Appetizers: The Best Way to Start
Chili's is famous for its appetizers, and starting your meal with a fan-favorite is always a great idea. The Triple Dipper, for example, allows you to choose three of your favorite starters, like the classic Southwestern Eggrolls, Crispy Chicken Crispers, and Fried Mozzarella, making it perfect for sharing. For a more focused starter, the Chips & Salsa or the creamy Southwestern Queso are reliable and delicious choices. A truly unique offering is the Big Mouth Bites, a set of mini burgers often praised for their flavor and satisfying portion size.
Can't-Miss Appetizer Picks
- Southwestern Eggrolls: These are arguably one of Chili's most iconic appetizers. Crispy fried tortillas filled with chicken, black beans, corn, and cheese, served with an avocado-ranch dipping sauce that adds a creamy, cool contrast.
- Triple Dipper: The ultimate customizable appetizer, allowing you to sample three different items. A great option for those who want to try a little bit of everything.
- Skillet Queso: A creamy, cheesy, and savory dip with roasted green chiles, perfect for sharing. It's a rich and flavorful way to kick off your meal.
Entrees That Deliver
When it comes to the main course, Chili's menu offers a wide variety of Tex-Mex and American classics. For many diners, the ribs are the undisputed king. Chili's Baby Back Ribs are slow-cooked and smoked in-house, known for being fall-off-the-bone tender and slathered in a delicious BBQ sauce. The fajitas are another sizzling sensation, featuring grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp served on a skillet with peppers and onions.
Steak, Chicken, and Seafood Favorites
- Ancho Salmon: For a lighter, yet still flavorful option, the Ancho Salmon is a great choice. Served with a delicious rub, it's a testament to the fact that Chili's can do more than just heavy comfort food.
- Cajun Chicken Pasta: This is a satisfying and hearty dish with grilled chicken, penne in a spicy Alfredo sauce, topped with chile spices, Parmesan, and green onions. It's a flavor-packed comfort food favorite.
- Margarita Grilled Chicken: A classic for a reason, this entree features marinated and grilled chicken served with rice and black beans, offering a refreshingly zesty taste.
Big Mouth Burgers and Sandwiches
Chili's takes its burgers seriously, and the Big Mouth Burger series offers some truly hefty and satisfying options. The Big Smasher Burger is a newer addition featuring a large beef patty with Thousand Island dressing, American cheese, and classic toppings. For a burger with a kick, the Bacon Ranch Burger is another popular pick.
The Famous Chicken Crispers
The Chicken Crispers have a devoted following for good reason. These crispy chicken tenders come in different flavors, including the standard crispy, Honey-Chipotle, and Nashville Hot. A Chicken Crispers Combo is a fantastic value meal, typically served with two sides and plenty of sauce for dipping.
Comparison Table: Popular Choices at a Glance
| Dish | Category | Key Flavors | Best For | Price/Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baby Back Ribs | Entree | Smoky, sweet, tangy BBQ | BBQ lovers, large appetite | Excellent for the portion |
| Cajun Chicken Pasta | Entree | Creamy, spicy, savory | Pasta fans, comfort food | Great value meal |
| Triple Dipper | Appetizer | Customizable, assorted | Sharing with a group | Good for variety |
| Big Smasher Burger | Burger | Beefy, savory, cheesy | Burger enthusiasts | Excellent value |
| Ancho Salmon | Entree | Spicy, citrus, delicate | Lighter meal seekers | Higher price point |
| Molten Chocolate Cake | Dessert | Rich, decadent, chocolate | Sweet cravings | Worth the indulgence |
The Sweet Ending: Desserts
No Chili's meal is complete without dessert. The Molten Chocolate Cake is a legendary finish, featuring a chocolate cake with a rich, molten chocolate center, topped with vanilla ice cream and a chocolate shell. For a more classic American dessert, the Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie is served warm, topped with vanilla ice cream and hot fudge. Another option is the Peanut Butter Pie, which is rich and satisfying for those who love the classic flavor combination of chocolate and peanut butter.
Conclusion: Finding Your Chili's Favorite
Ultimately, the best thing to eat at Chili's depends on your personal preferences, but with so many popular and time-tested favorites, you can't go wrong. Whether you're craving a plate of their famously tender ribs, a customizable Triple Dipper, a fiery Cajun Pasta, or a sweet and decadent Molten Chocolate Cake, Chili's has something to satisfy every craving. For the best value, consider the "3 for Me" menu, which often includes some of the restaurant's most beloved dishes. By exploring these highlights, you can confidently navigate the menu and find a meal you'll absolutely love.
Visit the official Chili's website to see the full menu and current specials.
