Discover the best options for what to serve with Chilli Con Carne, from traditional sides like rice and cornbread to creative alternatives and healthy choices that complement this hearty dish.
I love chilli con carne. It’s one of our favourite family dinners.
Chilli is comforting, spicy, and super easy to make. It’s got rich flavours and a lovely texture.
Its spicy profile means that it’s not ideal with really flavourful sides. We tend to opt for simple things like rice and bread but there are so many options.

What is Chilli Con Carne Traditionally Served With
Chilli Con Carne, a hearty and flavourful dish with Mexican origins, is traditionally served with a variety of sides that complement its rich, spicy profile. Here are some of the most common accompaniments:
Rice
Rice is perhaps the first thing that most of us would think of if we were asked what to serve with chilli con carne.
Rice is easy, hearty and cheap. It’s also a great option for soaking up chilli sauce and making a meal more filling.
White rice is the most popular choice, but if you are looking to add more fibre, brown is a good option.

Tortilla Chips
Tortilla chips add a delightful crunch to the meal and are often used to scoop up the chilli, adding an interactive element to the dining experience. They are also perfect for layering with cheese and baking to create a delicious chilli nachos dish.
Who doesn’t love a spoon that you can eat?
Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic American side that pairs beautifully with Chilli Con Carne, particularly in the Southern United States. Its slightly sweet flavour contrasts nicely with the spicy chilli, and its crumbly texture makes it ideal for mopping up the sauce.
I don’t really like it, but it’s a popular chilli side dish.
Tortillas
Soft flour or corn tortillas are another traditional side, especially in Mexican cuisine. They can be used to wrap up the chilli, making for a tasty and portable meal, or simply served on the side to scoop up the chilli.
We often serve with wraps and make quick homemade burritos at the table. The kids love this.
Sour Cream
A dollop of sour cream is a popular topping for Chilli Con Carne. It adds a creamy, cooling element that helps to temper the spice and adds a rich texture to the dish. It’s often served on the side so that diners can add it to their taste.
I often add sour cream if I’ve made it a little too spicy! Guacamole and salsa also make fun and popular additions.
Grated Cheese
Grated cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, is often sprinkled on top of Chilli Con Carne. The cheese melts into the hot chilli, adding a deliciously creamy and savoury layer. It’s a comforting addition that’s hard to resist.
We tend to add bowls of cheese, salad and dips to the table and let everyone help themselves family-style.
Beans
While some Chilli Con Carne recipes already include beans, they can also be served on the side, especially refried beans or black beans. Beans add extra protein and fibre, making the meal even more filling and nutritious.
These traditional sides not only enhance the flavours of Chilli Con Carne but also allow you to customise the dish according to your preferences. Whether you prefer a simple bowl of rice or a full spread with all the fixings, these accompaniments make Chilli Con Carne a versatile and satisfying meal.
Mexican Sides for Chilli Con Carne
Chilli Con Carne, with its rich, spicy flavours, pairs beautifully with a variety of traditional Mexican sides. These accompaniments not only enhance the authenticity of the meal but also add layers of texture and taste, creating a well-rounded dining experience. Here are some classic Mexican sides to serve with Chilli Con Carne:
Guacamole
Guacamole, a creamy avocado dip, is a must-have side for any Mexican-inspired meal. Its fresh, tangy flavour contrasts nicely with the heat of the chilli, providing a cooling element that balances the dish. Made with ripe avocados, lime juice, onions, tomatoes, and cilantro, guacamole adds a vibrant, refreshing taste to the meal.
I absolutely hate avocados, but weirdly love guacamole.
Mexican Rice
Mexican rice, also known as Spanish rice, is a savoury side dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and sometimes peas or carrots. Its slightly tangy and mildly spiced flavour makes it a perfect companion for Chilli Con Carne. The rice absorbs the chilli’s sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavours on your plate
Refried Beans
Refried beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine and an ideal side for Chilli Con Carne. Made from pinto or black beans that are cooked, mashed, and then fried with spices, they add a creamy, earthy component to the meal. Their rich texture pairs well with the chunky chilli, making each bite satisfying.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a delicious side that complements the bold flavours of Chilli Con Carne. Grilled corn on the cob is slathered in mayonnaise, and sprinkled with cotija cheese, chilli powder, and fresh lime juice. The sweetness of the corn, combined with the tangy and spicy toppings, provides a delightful contrast to the chilli.
Salsa
A fresh, homemade salsa can brighten up your Chilli Con Carne meal. Whether you choose a classic tomato-based salsa, a zesty pico de gallo, or a roasted salsa verde, this side adds a burst of freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the chilli. Serve it with tortilla chips for a crunchy side or use it as a topping for the chilli itself.
Quesadillas
Quesadillas, made by grilling tortillas filled with cheese and sometimes additional ingredients like chicken or vegetables, are a comforting and cheesy side that pairs well with Chilli Con Carne. The melted cheese inside the warm tortilla complements the spice of the chilli, offering a rich, indulgent side that’s easy to prepare.
Pico de Gallo
Pico de Gallo, a fresh salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice, is a light and zesty side that adds a crunchy, refreshing contrast to Chilli Con Carne. Its bright flavours and crisp texture make it an excellent choice for balancing out the spiciness of the chilli.
These Mexican sides not only complement Chilli Con Carne but also bring a taste of Mexico to your table. Whether you’re looking for something creamy, tangy, or spicy, these sides will enhance your meal and delight your guests.
What to Serve with Chilli Con Carne Instead of Rice
Many of the options above offer a great alternative to rice, but remember if you are removing a starchy, filling side like rice, you’ll probably want to add something filling.
Other sides for chilli that aren’t rice include pasta, jacket potatoes and garlic bread.
What Bread to Serve with Chilli Con Carne
Choosing the right bread to serve with Chilli Con Carne can elevate your meal, providing a satisfying way to soak up the rich, spicy sauce. The bread options listed here each bring their own unique texture and flavour, making them perfect accompaniments to this hearty dish.
Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic choice to serve with Chilli Con Carne, especially in the Southern United States. Its slightly sweet flavour contrasts beautifully with the spicy chilli, while its crumbly texture is perfect for mopping up the sauce. You can serve it as individual squares or as a larger loaf to be sliced at the table. For an extra treat, consider adding jalapeños or cheese to the cornbread batter.
Crusty Baguette
A crusty baguette is an excellent option for those who enjoy a bit of crunch with their meal. The chewy interior and crispy crust of the baguette are ideal for dipping into the chilli, soaking up the flavours without becoming too soggy. This bread is particularly good for those who prefer a simple, no-fuss side that still enhances the meal.
Tortillas
Soft flour or corn tortillas are a staple in Mexican cuisine and a natural pairing for Chilli Con Carne. They can be used to wrap up the chilli, creating a delicious handheld meal, or simply torn into pieces and used to scoop up the chilli. Tortillas offer a more traditional and authentic touch, bringing the flavours of Mexico right to your plate.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread, with its buttery, garlicky flavour, is a delicious side that pairs surprisingly well with Chilli Con Carne. The robust garlic complements the spiciness of the chilli, while the crisp edges and soft interior provide a satisfying contrast. Serve it as thick slices or smaller pieces to add a touch of indulgence to the meal.
Soda Bread
Soda bread, with its dense, slightly tangy crumb, is another great choice to serve with Chilli Con Carne. This bread is quick to make, using bicarbonate of soda as a leavening agent instead of yeast. Its hearty texture makes it perfect for pairing with robust dishes like chilli, and it’s particularly good at soaking up the sauce.
Ciabatta
Ciabatta, with its airy, open crumb and crisp crust, is an Italian bread that works wonderfully with Chilli Con Carne. The bread’s light texture means it won’t overpower the dish, and its large holes are ideal for absorbing the rich chilli sauce. Toast the slices lightly for extra crunch or serve it fresh and warm from the oven.
These bread options provide a range of textures and flavours, from the traditional cornbread to the rustic charm of ciabatta. Whichever you choose, serving the right bread with Chilli Con Carne will enhance your meal, offering the perfect balance of softness and crunch to complement the hearty chilli.
Pitta Bread
We often serve our chilli with soft, lightly toasted pitta breads. They’re great for either mopping up sauce or making chilli pitas at the table. One of my kid’s favourites.
What to Serve with Chilli Con Carne For Kids
When serving Chilli Con Carne to children, it’s important to choose sides that are both appealing and mild in flavour. Kids often prefer simple, familiar foods, so selecting sides that complement the chilli without overwhelming them with spice is key. Here are some kid-friendly options to consider:
Mild Cheese Quesadillas
Cheese quesadillas are a hit with most kids. Made with soft tortillas and mild cheddar or mozzarella cheese, they are simple, cheesy, and delicious. Quesadillas can be served alongside Chilli Con Carne or used to scoop up the chilli, making it a fun, interactive meal for children.
Plain Rice
Plain white or brown rice is a great side for kids, as it’s familiar and gentle on the palate. The rice can help tone down the spiciness of the chilli, making it more approachable for children. You can also try mixing a bit of chilli into the rice to introduce the flavours gradually.
Sweetcorn
Sweetcorn is naturally sweet and crunchy, which makes it a favourite among children. Serve it on the cob or as kernels on the side. The sweetness of the corn pairs nicely with the savoury chilli, providing a pleasant contrast that kids will enjoy.
My kids would eat sweetcorn with everything!
Tortilla Chips
Tortilla chips are a fun and crunchy side that kids love. They can be used to dip into the Chilli Con Carne, adding an element of play to the meal. Choose lightly salted or plain chips to keep the flavours mild and child-friendly.
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs well with Chilli Con Carne. The mild, buttery flavour of the potatoes can help balance the spice of the chilli, making the dish more appealing to young taste buds. You can even serve the chilli on top of the mashed potatoes for a hearty, kid-friendly twist.
Soft Bread Rolls
Soft, fluffy bread rolls are a great option for kids, as they’re easy to eat and can be used to soak up the chilli. Their mild flavour won’t compete with the chilli, making them a perfect side. You can serve the rolls warm, with a little butter on the side.
Carrot and Cucumber Sticks
For a healthy and crunchy side, serve carrot and cucumber sticks alongside Chilli Con Carne. These vegetables are mild and refreshing, providing a cool contrast to the warmth of the chilli. Plus, they’re easy for little hands to pick up and eat.
These kid-friendly sides are designed to make Chilli Con Carne more accessible and enjoyable for children. By choosing familiar and mild options, you can ensure that the meal is both nutritious and appealing, catering to young taste buds while still being delicious for the whole family.
But, bear in mind your children’s age and tastes. My son is 13, and will happily eat the same as the grownups at the table, while my daughter isn’t as fond of spice, and is more likely to prefer sides like grated cheese and simple breads to tone down the spice.
Healthy Sides for Chilli Con Carne
When you’re looking to enjoy Chilli Con Carne without compromising on nutrition, pairing it with healthy sides can create a balanced and wholesome meal. Here are some nutritious options that complement the flavours of Chilli Con Carne while adding a healthy twist.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables like courgettes, bell peppers, aubergines, and asparagus make for a vibrant and healthy side dish. Grilling brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables while adding a slight smokiness that pairs beautifully with the rich flavours of Chilli Con Carne. This option adds fibre, vitamins, and a burst of colour to your plate.
Quinoa
Quinoa is a protein-rich grain that’s a fantastic alternative to rice. Its slightly nutty flavour and fluffy texture make it a great companion for Chilli Con Carne. Quinoa is high in fibre, packed with essential amino acids, and provides a satisfying, nutritious base that complements the spiciness of the chilli.
Bulger wheat is another great option.
Green Salad
A fresh green salad with mixed leaves, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to Chilli Con Carne. The crispness of the salad and the tangy dressing help to balance the richness of the chilli, while adding essential vitamins and minerals to the meal. For added texture, consider tossing in some avocado or toasted seeds.
If I don’t fancy rice, I often serve a dollop of chilli with salad, cheese and guacamole for a more refreshing dinner.
Cauliflower Rice
Cauliflower rice is a low-carb, vegetable-based alternative to traditional rice. It’s light, easy to prepare, and absorbs the flavours of Chilli Con Carne well. Simply grate or pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice, then lightly sauté with a bit of olive oil and seasoning. This side is perfect for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake while still enjoying a hearty meal.
Personally, I think we should just let cauliflower be cauliflower, instead of trying to make it everything. But you do you.
Steamed Broccoli
Steamed broccoli is a nutrient-dense side that pairs well with Chilli Con Carne. It’s high in fibre, vitamins C and K, and provides a mild flavour that balances the spice of the chilli. The slight crunch of the broccoli adds a nice textural contrast to the dish.
Brown Rice
Brown rice is a healthier alternative to white rice, offering more fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Its slightly nutty flavour and chewy texture complement the hearty Chilli Con Carne. Brown rice is also more filling, helping to keep you satisfied longer, making it a great choice for a balanced meal.
Avocado Slices
Avocado slices are a creamy and nutritious side that can help cool down the spiciness of Chilli Con Carne. Avocados are rich in healthy fats, fibre, and potassium, making them a heart-healthy addition to the meal. Serve them on the side, or even dice them up and mix them into the chilli for added creaminess.
These healthy sides not only complement the bold flavours of Chilli Con Carne but also contribute to a well-rounded, nutritious meal. By incorporating fresh vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, you can enjoy your Chilli Con Carne while keeping your diet balanced and wholesome.
Alternative Sides for Chilli Con Carne
If you’re looking to switch things up or add a creative twist to your meal, there are plenty of alternative sides that pair beautifully with Chilli Con Carne. These options offer different textures and flavours, making your dining experience more interesting and versatile.
Couscous
Couscous is a light and fluffy grain that’s quick to prepare and absorbs flavours well. Its mild taste allows the Chilli Con Carne to shine while providing a satisfying base. You can also add herbs, such as parsley or coriander, and a squeeze of lemon juice to the couscous for an extra burst of freshness.
Polenta
Polenta, made from boiled cornmeal, is a creamy and comforting alternative to traditional sides like rice or bread. Its subtle flavour and smooth texture are a great match for the rich and spicy Chilli Con Carne. You can serve it soft and creamy or let it firm up, then slice and grill it for a more textured side dish.
Baked Sweet Potatoes
Baked sweet potatoes are a nutritious and slightly sweet side that contrasts nicely with the savoury and spicy notes of Chilli Con Carne. The natural sweetness of the potatoes balances the heat of the chilli, while their soft texture makes them perfect for mashing and mixing with the sauce.
Crispy sweet potato fries are another tasty option.
Roasted Butternut Squash
Roasted butternut squash adds a sweet and earthy flavour to your meal. Its caramelised edges and tender flesh are delicious when paired with the bold flavours of Chilli Con Carne. This side is not only tasty but also packed with vitamins and fibre, making it a healthy and hearty option.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw, especially a light and tangy version made with a vinegar-based dressing, is a refreshing side that cuts through the richness of Chilli Con Carne. The crunch of the cabbage and carrots adds texture, while the acidity from the dressing provides a nice balance to the dish.
We really like coleslaw with chilli con carne.
Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf, which is typically made by cooking rice with broth and aromatic spices, offers a flavourful twist on plain rice. You can add ingredients like toasted nuts, dried fruits, or sautéed onions for added texture and flavour. The slightly elevated taste of rice pilaf complements the robust Chilli Con Carne perfectly.
Grilled Halloumi
Grilled halloumi cheese is a salty and chewy side that pairs wonderfully with Chilli Con Carne. Its firm texture holds up well to the heat, and its savoury flavour provides a delicious contrast to the chilli. Serve slices of grilled halloumi on the side or even chop it into cubes and mix it into the chilli for an extra layer of flavour.
Honestly, for me, halloumi is good with everything!
Chips or Potato Wedges
I’m a big fan of picking your battles when it comes to food and life in general. If my kids are eating a nutritious chilli, and they fancy some homemade wedges or even frozen oven chips on the side, that’s not a problem.
And when I say kids, I mean husband.
These alternative sides offer creative and delicious ways to enjoy Chilli Con Carne. Whether you’re in the mood for something light, sweet, or slightly indulgent, these options provide a refreshing change from the usual pairings, ensuring your meal is both exciting and satisfying.
Baked Potato
I absolutely love a fluffy jacket potato with tons of butter, a sprinkle of grated cheese and a big dollop of chilli.
It’s so warming and comforting, and often how I use any leftover chilli from the night before.
Conclusion
When it comes to deciding what to serve with chilli con carne, make sure you think about the occasion, time of day, and who you are feeding.
We like to keep things simple, but we also like to offer plenty of options. I tend to serve chilli with rice on our plates, but on the table, we’ll also have things like a side salad, guacamole, soured cream, salsa, cheese and wraps or pitta bread. This makes eating more fun and is a great way for the kids to try things without overwhelming them.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About What to Serve with Chilli Con Carne
Can I Serve Chilli Con Carne with Pasta?
Yes, Chilli Con Carne pairs well with pasta, especially with hearty varieties like penne or macaroni. The pasta absorbs the flavours of the chilli, making it a comforting alternative to rice.
What is a Good Vegetarian Side Dish for Chilli Con Carne?
Grilled vegetables, avocado salad, or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette are excellent vegetarian sides. These options add freshness and balance to the richness of the chilli.
Can I Serve Chilli Con Carne with Tortilla Chips?
Absolutely! Tortilla chips are a popular side or topping for Chilli Con Carne. They add a crunchy texture and can be used for scooping up the chilli, making it a fun, interactive meal.
What Drinks Pair Well with Chilli Con Carne?
Beverages like beer, especially Mexican lagers, or a refreshing margarita pair wonderfully with Chilli Con Carne. For a non-alcoholic option, try limeade or iced tea to complement the spices.
Is Chilli Con Carne Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes, Chilli Con Carne is excellent for meal prep as it reheats well and can be served with various sides throughout the week. It also freezes nicely, making it a convenient option for busy days.
What Dairy-Free Sides Can I Serve with Chilli Con Carne?
Dairy-free sides include guacamole, salsa, or a simple corn salad. You can also use dairy-free sour cream alternatives if you want a creamy topping without the dairy.
How Can I Make Chilli Con Carne Less Spicy for Kids?
To make Chilli Con Carne less spicy for kids, reduce the chilli powder or omit it altogether. You can also serve it with cooling sides like plain yoghurt or mild cheese to balance the heat.
What to Serve with Vegan Chilli?
A vegan option like a five-bean chilli is delicious and can be served with many of the sides above. Just stay clear of things like soured cream, and use Vegan cheese, and other plant-based options. Always check labels and ingredients if you aren’t sure.
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