25 Delicious Sides That Go Perfectly with White Chicken Chili

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of white chicken chili on a chilly evening. But what goes with white chicken chili to make it a complete meal? I’ve been experimenting with different sides for years, and I’m excited to share my favorite pairings that’ll take your chili night from good to absolutely amazing!

White chicken chili is already packed with flavor – that creamy broth, tender chicken, white beans, and green chilies create a delicious medley that warms you from the inside out But the right side dish can elevate the entire meal experience

So let’s dive into the best companions for your white chicken chili!

Bread and Tortilla Options (The Perfect Dippers!)

Nothing soaks up that creamy, flavorful broth better than some fresh bread or warm tortillas. Here are some options that’ll make your taste buds dance

1. Cornbread or Corn Muffins

Cornbread is probably the most classic pairing with any chili, and white chicken chili is no exception! The slightly sweet, grainy texture of cornbread perfectly complements the creamy, spicy notes of the chili.

You can make it as:

• Traditional cornbread in a cast iron skillet
• Individual corn muffins (great for portion control)
• Sweet or savory versions depending on your preference

2. Garlic Bread

Oh my goodness, garlic bread with white chicken chili is a match made in heaven! The crispy, buttery, garlicky goodness adds amazing texture and flavor contrast.

Pro tip: Make it even better by adding some melted cheese on top for a cheesy garlic bread experience that’ll knock your socks off!

3. Buttermilk Biscuits

Light, fluffy buttermilk biscuits are perfect for sopping up that delicious chili broth. And guess what? You can whip these up in just 20 minutes while your chili simmers!

4. Corn Tortillas

Fresh, warm corn tortillas have an authentic southwestern vibe that pairs beautifully with white chicken chili. You can:

• Serve them warm on the side
• Cut and toast them for homemade tortilla strips as a topping
• Use them to scoop up the chili like a dip

5. Ciabatta or Artisan Bread

A crusty loaf of ciabatta or artisan bread tears into perfect chunks for dipping. The contrast between the crusty exterior and soft interior makes it ideal for soaking up that flavorful broth.

Handhelds and Quesadillas

Want to turn your chili night into something special? Pair it with these delicious handhelds:

6. Quesadillas

Quesadillas are like the perfect sidekick to white chicken chili! The cheesy, crispy tortilla complements the creamy chili beautifully. Try these variations:

• Plain cheese quesadillas
• Chicken fajita quesadillas
• Chorizo quesadillas with caramelized onions

7. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

A gooey grilled cheese sandwich for dipping in your chili? Yes please! Try a chimichurri chicken grilled cheese for an extra flavor punch.

8. Flautas or Taquitos

These rolled and fried tortillas stuffed with chicken or cheese make a crunchy contrast to the creamy chili. You can bake them instead of frying for a healthier option!

Fresh and Crispy Salads

Balance out the rich, hearty chili with something fresh and crisp:

9. Santa Fe Salad

A southwestern-style salad with plenty of veggies, black beans, corn, and a creamy Santa Fe ranch dressing adds freshness and crunch.

10. Mexican Coleslaw

This isn’t your ordinary coleslaw! A southwestern twist with lime, cilantro, and a touch of spice makes this 5-minute side dish a refreshing complement to your white chicken chili.

11. Black Bean and Corn Salad

Simple but effective! Combine black beans, sweet corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, and avocado with a lime vinaigrette for a fresh and colorful side.

12. Mango Avocado Salad

The sweetness of mango combined with creamy avocado creates a delightful contrast to the savory, spicy chili. Add some lime juice, red onion, and cilantro to complete this refreshing side.

Rice and Grain Options

Want to make your chili go further? These rice and grain sides help stretch the meal:

13. Mexican Rice (Arroz Rojo)

Fluffy, flavorful Mexican rice with tomatoes and spices is ready in about 25 minutes and adds substance to your meal.

14. Green Rice (Arroz Verde)

Packed with fresh spinach or herbs, green rice is not only pretty but adds extra nutrition to your meal.

15. Cilantro Lime Rice

The bright, zesty flavors of cilantro and lime create a refreshing base that complements the richness of white chicken chili.

Vegetable Sides

Add some extra veggies to round out your meal:

16. Sweet Potato Fries

The subtle sweetness of sweet potato fries pairs surprisingly well with white chicken chili! You can bake or air fry them for a healthier option.

17. Skillet Charred Corn

Slightly charred corn with a bit of butter and seasoning makes for a simple but delicious side that’s ready in just 15 minutes.

18. Roasted Vegetables

A medley of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and onions seasoned with southwestern spices makes a healthy, colorful side dish.

19. Sweet Plantains

Baked or fried sweet plantains offer a uniquely sweet contrast to the savory chili. The crispy exterior and creamy interior are totally addictive!

Appetizers and Starters

If you’re hosting a gathering, consider these appetizers to go with your white chicken chili:

20. Pineapple Salsa with Tortilla Chips

The sweet and spicy combination of pineapple salsa with crunchy tortilla chips starts the meal off with a bang.

21. Cheese Dip or Queso

A warm, creamy cheese dip with tortilla chips is always a crowd-pleaser before the main chili course.

22. Nachos

White cheddar chicken nachos can be served as an appetizer before the chili or as a side alongside it.

Don’t Forget the Toppings!

The right toppings can take your white chicken chili to a whole new level. Here are some must-haves:

• Cheese options: Shredded Monterey Jack, cheddar, or crumbled queso fresco
• Creamy additions: Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Fresh elements: Diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, green onions
• Crunchy toppings: Tortilla strips, crushed tortilla chips
• Finishing touches: Fresh lime juice, hot sauce

Desserts to Finish the Meal

After enjoying your white chicken chili and sides, consider these complementary desserts:

23. Mexican Rice Pudding (Arroz con Leche)

This creamy, cinnamon-scented dessert provides a sweet ending to your meal.

24. Mexican S’mores

A fun twist on traditional s’mores with a hint of cinnamon and spice makes for a playful dessert after chili.

25. Churros

These crispy, fried dough pastries rolled in cinnamon sugar are the perfect sweet ending to your southwestern-inspired meal.

Drinks to Serve with White Chicken Chili

Complete your meal with these beverage pairings:

• For the adults: A spicy jalapeño Moscow mule or bourbon margarita
• Non-alcoholic options: Mexican horchata, Brazilian lemonade (made with limes!)

Why These Pairings Work So Well

I’ve found that the best companions for white chicken chili fall into a few categories:

1. Contrasting textures: Crunchy sides balance the creamy chili
2. Complementary flavors: Southwestern and Mexican-inspired flavors enhance the chili
3. Temperature balance: Cool, fresh sides offset the warm, spicy chili
4. Dipping potential: Bread and tortillas for soaking up that delicious broth

Final Thoughts

White chicken chili is already delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides transforms it into a complete, satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for something quick and simple like warm tortillas or want to go all out with multiple sides and toppings, these options will definitely enhance your chili experience.

My personal favorite combo is a bowl of white chicken chili with a slice of garlic bread, a small portion of Mexican coleslaw, and ALL the toppings (especially avocado and lime juice). What’s yours gonna be?

Next time you’re planning a chili night, try a few of these sides and watch your family or guests clean their bowls with delight! What’s your favorite thing to serve with white chicken chili? I’d love to hear your ideas too!

Go-to side dishes for chili include classic pairings like cornbread, baked potatoes, and rice. You can also add biscuits, various types of breads, and tortilla chips for dipping.