Last Updated: November 10, 2026
Chili’s Grill and Bar is a casual dining chain with a Tex-Mex-leaning menu, plenty of burgers and ribs, and a bar program that includes its well-known margaritas. This Chili’s menu guide breaks the menu into categories and suggests what to try on a first visit.
Menus, availability and limited-time items vary by location and change often. Use this as a general guide, and confirm the current lineup on the official Chili’s menu.
What Chili’s Is Known For
Chili’s is known for baby back ribs, burgers, fajitas, chips with salsa and queso, and a rotating list of margaritas. It has a lively, family-friendly atmosphere and offers a wide range of shareable starters. The Triple Dipper lets you build a sampler from several appetizers, and the Awesome Blossom, a large fried onion, is one of its most recognizable items. Drinks, particularly margaritas and beer, are a significant part of the brand.
Menu Categories
Chips, Salsa and Queso
Many tables start with a basket of chips and salsa. Skillet Queso, a warm cheese dip served in a skillet, is a staple and can be ordered with add-ons such as seasoned beef. Guacamole is also frequently offered.
Appetizers
The appetizer menu includes the Awesome Blossom, Boneless Wings, Southwestern Eggrolls, Texas Cheese Fries and Mozzarella Sticks, among other options. The Triple Dipper allows you to pick three appetizers from a list for a mixed platter. This is a good way for a group to sample multiple items at once.
Burgers
Burgers range from the Oldtimer, a classic with lettuce, tomato, onion and pickles, to specialty burgers with bacon, barbecue sauce or other toppings. The Big Smasher, with thinner smashed patties, has also been featured on the menu. Burgers are usually served with fries.
Ribs and Smokehouse Items
Baby Back Ribs, known for their tenderness and signature barbecue glaze, are a core item. Ribs are offered in half and full racks and in combo plates with chicken, shrimp or fajitas. Smokehouse combos pair ribs with other items.
Fajitas
Sizzling fajitas arrive on a hot skillet with grilled peppers and onions, tortillas, and sides such as rice, beans, pico de gallo, cheese and sour cream. Options include chicken, steak, shrimp or a combination.
Chicken and Crispers
Chicken Crispers are crispy chicken strips served with fries and a dipping sauce, and they come in flavors such as Honey-Chipotle. Grilled chicken entrees and chicken sandwiches are also available.
Pasta and Other Entrees
Cajun Chicken Pasta, steaks, salmon and other entrees broaden the menu beyond Tex-Mex and burgers.
Salads and Bowls
Salads include the Quesadilla Explosion Salad, which features crispy chicken, greens and quesadilla strips. Other salads and bowls offer lighter options with grilled chicken or steak.
Combos
Chili’s has long offered a value-style combo option that pairs an appetizer, a drink and an entree, commonly called 3 for Me, though the details and availability differ by restaurant and period.
Desserts
Molten Chocolate Cake, a warm chocolate cake with a gooey center and vanilla ice cream, is the signature dessert. Other options may include cheesecake or seasonal sweets. Many are shareable.
Drinks
The Presidente Margarita, made with tequila and orange liqueur, is among the most popular cocktails, and a Margarita of the Month rotates through new flavors. Beer, wine and soft drinks are available, along with non-alcoholic options.
What First-Timers Might Try
- Chips, salsa and Skillet Queso. An easy starter.
- Baby Back Ribs. The most famous dish on the menu.
- Triple Dipper. A sampler that lets you taste several appetizers.
- Chicken Fajitas. A sizzling plate with plenty of accompaniments.
- Oldtimer burger. A classic benchmark.
- Molten Chocolate Cake. A shareable dessert with a famous reputation.
Customization Tips
- Customize your Triple Dipper. Choose your favorite three, and ask for sauce choices where relevant.
- Choose your fajita protein. Chicken, steak, shrimp or a mix are common selections.
- Swap sides. Many entrees let you substitute one side for another, such as vegetables or rice.
- Adjust burger toppings. Remove or add items such as onions, jalapenos, bacon or different cheeses.
- Request sauce on the side. Helpful for crispers or ribs if you like to control the flavor.
- Share a dessert. Molten Chocolate Cake is made for two or more people.
- Order togo. Many restaurants offer takeout, and fajitas and ribs often travel well.
Quick-Reference Table
| Category | Typical Items | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Starters | Chips and salsa, Skillet Queso, Awesome Blossom, Boneless Wings | Shareable |
| Sampler | Triple Dipper | Pick three appetizers |
| Burgers | Oldtimer, specialty burgers, Big Smasher | Served with fries |
| Ribs | Baby Back Ribs, ribs combos | Signature dish |
| Fajitas | Chicken, steak, shrimp, mixed | Served sizzling with tortillas |
| Chicken | Chicken Crispers, grilled chicken, sandwiches | Several sauces |
| Salads | Quesadilla Explosion Salad, grilled chicken salads | Lighter choices |
| Dessert | Molten Chocolate Cake | Good for sharing |
| Drinks | Presidente Margarita, Margarita of the Month, beer | Rotating flavors |
Making a Plan
For a group, one smart approach is to begin with chips and queso, add a Triple Dipper, and let each person choose an entree. That way you cover the main strengths of the menu without everyone ordering the same thing. If you prefer to keep it casual, the bar area often serves the full menu.
Chili’s tends to fill up at dinner and on weekends, so call-ahead or online waitlist options can help. The kids menu includes small plates of favorite foods, and the restaurant is generally accommodating to families.
FAQ
What is the Triple Dipper?
It is a platter that lets you select three appetizers from a list. It is popular with groups who want to sample different items.
Are the ribs a safe first order?
Baby Back Ribs are among the most recognized items on the menu and are a reliable starting point for new visitors who enjoy barbecue-style food.
Does Chili’s have non-meat options?
Some salads, sides, appetizers and customized dishes can work for vegetarians. Ask your server and review ingredient details on the official site.
Is the menu the same everywhere?
Core items are widely consistent, but menus, availability and limited-time items vary by location and change often. Confirm what is offered on the official Chili’s menu before ordering.
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