Eating out can sometimes be a challenge for vegans, as the available options can be limited. Fortunately, Chili’s offers a variety of vegan-friendly dishes that are both delicious and satisfying. From appetizers to main courses, and even some sides and salads, there’s something for everyone.
Chili’s has made an effort to be inclusive by offering a range of vegan options on their menu. This means you can enjoy a meal with friends and family without having to compromise your dietary preferences. In order to make the most out of your dining experience, it’s important to understand the ingredients and allergens in each dish.
Key Takeaways
Chili’s offers a range of appetizers, main courses, and sides for vegans
Familiarize yourself with ingredients and allergens to make informed choices
Vegan options are available across various meal categories, including dressings and beverages.
Understanding Vegan Options at Chili’s
When dining at Chili’s, you can find a variety of vegan options to satisfy your hunger. As a popular restaurant chain, Chili’s is aware of the diverse dietary preferences of its customers and has included several plant-based dishes on its menu.
To start, don’t hesitate to ask your server about the vegan options available. They are knowledgeable and can guide you through the menu, making sure your selections align with your dietary preferences. You can also find the most recent information on the Chili’s website, where updates are made to reflect changes in the menu.
Among the appetizers, you can opt for the bottomless tostada chips and house-made salsa. Be sure to specify that you want your chips without any seasoning, as the chili seasoning may contain non-vegan ingredients. For the main course, consider ordering the Veggie Fajitas. Just request that they exclude the dairy-based toppings such as sour cream and cheese, and replace the butter with oil for cooking.
The following list offers additional vegan choices at Chili’s:
Salads: Order without cheese, chicken, and non-vegan dressings.
House Salad with citrus balsamic vinaigrette
Caribbean Salad with lime cilantro vinaigrette
Sides: Customize your meal with these vegan-friendly options.
While Chili’s may not have an extensive vegan menu, you can still enjoy a satisfying meal by customizing your order and communicating your preferences with your server. With these tips in mind, you can confidently navigate the menu and savor your vegan dining experience at Chili’s.
Appetizers
House Salad
For a light and refreshing start to your meal, the House Salad is a great vegan option at Chili’s. It comes with fresh mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Be sure to request a vegan dressing option, such as the citrus balsamic vinaigrette. You can also add avocado slices for an extra dose of healthy fats and flavor.
Roasted Street Corn
The Roasted Street Corn is another delicious appetizer at Chili’s that can be made vegan with a few modifications. This dish features corn on the cob coated in a flavorful blend of spices and cooked to perfection. To make it vegan, ask your server to skip the cotija cheese and aioli. Enjoy the smoky, charred flavor and juicy sweetness of the corn on its own or accompanied by some lime wedges for an added zesty touch.
Other Appetizers
There are a few other vegan-friendly appetizer options at Chili’s that can satisfy your cravings.
Salsa and Tostada Chips: You can never go wrong with a classic combination of crispy tostada chips and tangy salsa. This appetizer is perfect for sharing with your friends or family while waiting for your main course.
Fresh Guacamole: Made with ripe avocado and a mix of flavorful ingredients, this guacamole is a must-try for avocado lovers. Pair it with tostada chips for a satisfying and creamy treat.
Remember to confirm with your server about any ingredient inclusions to ensure your dishes are 100% vegan. Enjoy these delicious appetizers on your next visit to Chili’s!
Main Courses
Veggie Fajitas
If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying main course, be sure to try the Veggie Fajitas. These fajitas are packed with a variety of flavorful vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, all perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection. Served with warm flour tortillas, you can easily customize your fajita by adding your choice of toppings. Load up on guacamole, salsa, and cilantro, making sure each bite is full of flavor. These veggie fajitas are not only tasty but also a wholesome option for those looking for a nutritious and satisfying meal at Chili’s.
Black Bean Burger
Another fantastic main course option for vegans is the Black Bean Burger. Made with a hearty black bean patty, this burger is sure to impress even the most ardent meat lovers. The patty is well-seasoned, with a delightful texture that is not too dry nor too mushy. The burger comes loaded with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, and onion, as well as a tasty bun that complements the flavors perfectly. The Black Bean Burger is a solid choice for both vegan and non-vegan diners at Chili’s, offering a satisfying and flavorsome alternative to a classic beef burger.
Sides
Steamed Broccoli
At Chili’s, you can enjoy a healthy and delicious side of steamed broccoli as a vegan option. This side is not only packed with nutrients, but it’s also a great way to add some green to your plate. Steamed to perfection, the broccoli maintains its vibrant color and crisp texture.
Fried Pickles
Another vegan-friendly side option at Chili’s is the fried pickles. Made with garlic dill pickles, these tangy treats are coated in a seasoned batter and fried to a crisp golden brown. They are served with a side of dipping sauce that you should check for vegan-friendliness. Fried pickles are a fun and satisfying option to accompany your meal.
Fries
For a classic side choice, you can’t go wrong with Chili’s fries. These golden and crispy French fries are perfect for pairing with your favorite vegan entrée dishes. Made from fresh-cut potatoes and cooked to perfection, they offer the ideal combination of saltiness and crunch that everyone loves.
In addition to these tasty vegan sides, Chili’s also offers a variety of other plant-based options such as black beans and grilled asparagus. Always communicate your dietary preferences to your server, as they will be able to guide you to suitable menu items and provide information on ingredient modifications for a truly enjoyable vegan meal experience.
Salads
At Chili’s, you have a variety of vegan salad options to choose from. The Caribbean Salad is a refreshing choice, featuring a mix of mandarin oranges, dried cranberries, and a citrus balsamic vinaigrette. It’s perfect for those days when you’re in the mood for a tangy, tropical twist to your meal.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider the Side House Salad. This simple yet satisfying option includes a medley of mixed greens, tomatoes, red onions, and cucumbers. Don’t forget to ask for the dressing to be served on the side or request for a vegan dressing option.
When customizing your salad, keep in mind that Chili’s offers a variety of vegan-friendly toppings. These include:
Feel free to mix and match these ingredients to create your perfect salad. Whether you’re craving something light and crisp or hearty and flavorful, Chili’s has a vegan-friendly salad option that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Condiments and Dressings
When dining at Chili’s, it’s important to be aware of the vegan-friendly condiments and dressings you can choose from to enhance your meal without compromising your dietary preferences. While many sauces and dressings may contain animal products, there are still several options available for you to enjoy.
House BBQ Sauce: This smoky, tangy BBQ sauce is a popular choice that complements many dishes on the menu. Rest assured that Chili’s house BBQ sauce is vegan-friendly, as it doesn’t contain dairy, eggs, or any other animal-derived ingredients.
Ketchup: A classic condiment that’s always a safe bet for vegans is ketchup. Chili’s offers this option to add an extra kick to your meal, free from dairy or other allergens.
When it comes to dressings, it’s essential to be cautious because several dressings, such as ranch dressing, typically contain milk or egg products. However, you can inquire about the availability of custom vegan dressings like a vinaigrette or an oil-based dressing. Don’t hesitate to ask the server for recommendations or substitutions.
For cheese alternatives, it’s not guaranteed that Chili’s will have vegan cheese options on hand. It’s advised to exclude cheese from your meal entirely or bring your own vegan cheese to add to your dish.
Be mindful of the chipotle sauce offered at Chili’s, as it may contain dairy or other allergens. Always ask the staff about the ingredients and let them know about your dietary restrictions.
In summary, Chili’s offers some vegan-friendly options when it comes to condiments and dressings, such as house BBQ sauce and ketchup. It’s crucial to communicate your needs to the staff, avoiding items with common allergens like milk, and exploring alternative options if needed. Enjoy your meal with confidence, knowing you have selected choices that align with your vegan lifestyle.
Beverages and Desserts
At Chili’s, you can find a variety of vegan-friendly beverages to quench your thirst. For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, you can try their house-made lemonade, a classic Sprite, or a caffeine-free Coke. If you prefer coffee, Chili’s serves regular and decaffeinated coffee which you can enjoy black or with non-dairy creamer. For fruit lovers, a cold and delicious apple juice is also available.
In addition to beverages, Chili’s offers a simple vegan-friendly dessert option. Indulge in their fresh pineapple, which is a light and natural way to satisfy your sweet cravings. This juicy tropical fruit is a fantastic and healthy way to end your meal.
For those who enjoy alcoholic beverages, Chili’s has a variety of drinks to choose from that can be made vegan-friendly. Always double-check with your server to ensure the ingredients are vegan, as some mixers or garnishes may not be. So, whether you’re ordering a refreshing beer or a delicious cocktail, there are options to suit your taste buds at Chili’s.
Understanding Ingredients and Allergens
As you explore vegan options at Chili’s, it’s essential to be familiar with the ingredients and allergens in the dishes. Knowing which ingredients are animal-derived or allergenic will help you make informed choices and ensure you enjoy a safe and delicious meal.
Before placing your order, it’s a good idea to communicate your dietary restrictions and preferences to the server. This can help minimize the risk of cross-contamination, especially if the establishment shares fryers between vegan and non-vegan menu items.
Some popular vegan options at Chili’s, like Mexican rice, may contain ingredients like chicken broth. In such cases, it’s crucial to ask for modifications or alternatives. For example, you can request steamed white rice instead of Mexican rice to avoid animal-derived ingredients.
Aside from rice, be aware of other items that may require modifications. For instance, in dishes with beans, make sure to inquire if they are cooked with animal fat or stock. Similarly, verify if the salsa or sauce used in a dish is free from dairy or animal-derived additives.
Since allergens like soy, nuts, and wheat may be present in some meals, it’s important to ask about the specific ingredients and the potential for cross-contamination. Even if a dish appears vegan-friendly, checking for allergens can further ensure a safe dining experience for those with sensitivities.
Remember, understanding ingredients and being aware of allergens is key to enjoying a satisfying vegan meal at Chili’s. Always make sure to ask questions, request modifications as needed, and communicate your dietary needs to the restaurant staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Chili’s black bean and veggie fajitas vegan?
Yes, Chili’s black bean and veggie fajitas can be made vegan. You need to ask for no butter and no sour cream when you place your order. The dish comes with a side of black beans, and you can substitute the non-vegan rice for steamed veggies to make it a fully vegan meal.
Is Chili’s queso vegetarian?
No, Chili’s queso is not vegetarian. The queso contains meat, specifically seasoned beef, which makes it unsuitable for vegetarians. However, you may ask if they can prepare a special vegetarian version without the beef, and they might accommodate your request.
Can I find vegan side dishes at Chili’s?
Yes, Chili’s offers a few vegan side dishes. For example, their fresco salad (without cheese) and steamed broccoli are both vegan-friendly options. You can also request other side dishes, such as fries or corn on the cob, to be prepared without butter to make them vegan.
Are the fried pickles at Chili’s vegan?
Chili’s fried pickles are not vegan, as they use a milk-based batter for frying. The pickles, along with other fried items, may also be cooked in shared fryers with non-vegan foods, increasing the risk of cross-contamination.
Are Chili’s tortilla chips vegan?
Yes, Chili’s tortilla chips are vegan. They are made from corn, vegetable oil, salt, and water, with no animal-derived ingredients. You can enjoy them with vegan-friendly dips such as salsa or guacamole, available at Chili’s.
What are some other chain restaurants with vegan options?
Many chain restaurants now offer vegan options to accommodate the growing demand for plant-based meals. Here are a few popular chains with vegan choices:
Chipotle: Customize your burrito, bowl, or salad with sofritas (tofu) and a variety of vegan toppings.
Taco Bell: Their menu is highly customizable, and you can create a vegan meal by substituting beans for meat and asking for no cheese or sour cream.
Starbucks: They offer plant-based drinks by using non-dairy milk, as well as some vegan snacks and light meals.
Burger King: Their Impossible Whopper can be made vegan by asking for no mayonnaise and a non-brioche bun.
As demand for vegan food grows, more chain restaurants are likely to expand their plant-based offerings, making it even more accessible to enjoy a vegan meal while dining out.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
