Chilis Gluten gluten-free.
Chili’s, the iconic Tex-Mex haven, may seem like a gluten-fraught minefield for those with dietary restrictions. But fear not, fellow celiac and gluten-sensitive friends! How are Chili’s gluten free options making a name for themselves? Find out why their food is a must-see for people living a gluten-free life.
- Chili’s Gluten Free Menu 2024
- Chili’s Dessert Menu 2024
- Chilis Allergen Menu 2024
- Chili’s Kids Menu 2024
- Chili’s Happy Hour 2024
Chili’s Gluten-Free Menu at Every Course
Chili’s Starters
Bone-In Wings
Dive into these juicy, crispy wings in three tempting sauces: Buffalo’s fiery kick, Honey Chipotle’s smoky sweetness, or House BBQ’s tangy embrace. Skip the bread basket and savour the wings, or pair them with a side of White Queso Fries (hold the flour tortilla chips) for a creamy, cheesy counterpoint.
White Queso Fries
Crispy, crinkle-cut fries smothered in warm, gooey queso blanco cheese are pure comfort food bliss. Opt for these instead of the breadbasket to indulge without the gluten. For a Tex-Mex twist, try the loaded fries, but hold the onion rings (they’re coated in wheat flour).
Tostada Chips and Guacamole
Crunchy tostada chips made with corn are perfect for scooping up creamy, fresh guacamole. This classic duo is a gluten-free delight, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
Chili’s Main Courses
Big Mouth Burgers
Forget the bun and savour the juicy goodness of these oversized burgers. Alex’s Santa Fe Burger is a tastebud adventure with its black bean patty, queso fresco, and avocado crema. Bacon Rancher brings smoky bacon and tangy ranch, while BBQ Brisket delivers tender, flavorful meat. Customize your burger with gluten-free toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles, and embrace bun-less burger bliss.
Chilis Fajitas: A Tex-Mex Staple, Gluten-Free Style
Sizzling fajitas are a Chili’s classic, and gluten-free friends can still enjoy the fun! Choose corn tortillas instead of flour ones, and you’re good to go. Fill your tortillas with grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp, and remember to add fajita veggies, pico de gallo, and salsa for a fiesta in every bite.
Also, check out Chili’s Happy Hour 2024
Guiltless Grill: Protein-Packed and Gluten-Free Delights
The Guiltless Grill offers a selection of protein-rich, flavorful options that are naturally gluten-free. Indulge in a 6 oz or 10 oz sirloin, cooked to your liking, and add a dollop of fresh avocado for a satisfying meal. With its sweet and smoky glaze, the ancho salmon is another delicious choice. The Cilantro-Lime Carne Asada, served without tortillas, is a burst of Tex-Mex flavour for lighter fare.
Chili’s Salads and Bowls
Chili’s Salads
Ditch the croutons and enjoy the crisp romaine lettuce and Parmesan cheese in the Caesar Salad. Add grilled chicken or Ancho Salmon for extra protein, and dress it up with your choice of gluten-free dressings like Avocado Ranch, Bleu Cheese, or Citrus Balsamic Vinaigrette. The House Salad is another simple yet satisfying option, with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots. Dress with your favourite gluten-free dressing and savour the fresh, flavorful goodness.
Chili’s Bowls
Chili’s Chipotle Chicken Fresh Mex Bowl is a fiesta in a bowl! Chipotle chicken, black beans, corn, pico de gallo, guacamole, and cilantro rice (hold the tortilla strips) come together in a symphony of flavours. The Santa Fe Grilled Chicken Salad with Tortilla Strips (hold the flour tortillas) is a protein-rich and veggie-packed delight for a lighter option.
Chili’s Sides
Grilled Asparagus
This smoky, tender vegetable side perfectly accompanies any main course. Seasoned and grilled to perfection, it adds a touch of green to your meal without the gluten.
Black Beans
Hearty and flavorful, black beans are a great source of protein and fibre. Enjoy them, add them to your salad or bowl, or use them to top your burger for a satisfying Southwestern twist.
Chili’s Coleslaw
This classic side dish is naturally gluten-free, offering a refreshing counterpoint to your meal. Opt for the creamy coleslaw for a touch of sweetness, or choose the vinegar-based coleslaw for a tangy kick.
Chili’s French Fries (Hold the Breading!)
Who can resist crispy French fries? Ask your server to hold the breading, and you’re ready. Enjoy them on their own, with ketchup, or dip them in your favourite gluten-free dressing.
Chili’s Gluten Free Menu
| Category | Item | Options/Notes | Gluten-Free? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starters | Tostada Chips and Guacamole | Skip bread basket | Yes |
| White Queso Fries | Skip onion rings | Yes. (Fries may be coated in flour; check with server.) | |
| Texas Cheese Fries | N/A | No (Flour-coated) | |
| Bone-In Wings | All flavors | Yes (Order bunless) | |
| Main Courses | Texas-sized baby ribs | Dry Rub, Honey-Chipotle, House BBQ | Yes (Skip sides) |
| Big Mouth Burgers | All varieties | Yes (Order bunless, customize toppings) | |
| Fajitas | Grilled Chicken, Steak, and Shrimp | Yes. (Choose corn tortillas.) | |
| Guiltless Grill | 6 oz Sirloin with Avocado, Ancho Salmon, and Margarita Grilled Chicken | Yes | |
| Steaks | Classic Ribeye, Classic Sirloin, and Cilantro-Lime Carne Asada | Yes. (Omit tortillas for Carne asada.) | |
| Kids Menu | Grilled Chicken Dippers | Choose gluten-free sides: Corn on the Cob, Kernels, Mandarin Oranges, Mashed Potatoes (check for breading), Salad with Ranch (no croutons), Steamed Broccoli | |
| Salads and Bowls | Caesar Salad | Add the grilled chicken, ancho salmon, and shrimp. | Yes (Omit croutons) |
| House Salad | Add the grilled chicken, ancho salmon, and shrimp. | Yes (Omit croutons) | |
| Chipotle Chicken Fresh Mex Bowl | Hold flour tortillas | Yes | |
| Santa Fe Grilled Chicken Salad | Hold flour tortillas | Yes | |
| Soups + Chili | Loaded Baked Potato Soup | N/A | Yes |
| The Original Chili | Ask server about gluten-free options | May or may not be gluten-free | |
| Salad Dressings | Avocado Ranch, Bleu Cheese, Citrus Balsamic Vinaigrette, Honey Mustard, Ranch, Santa Fe, Thousand Island | Check ingredients for gluten | Some may contain gluten |
| Smokehouse Combos (without Sides) | Baby Back Ribs, Jalapeno-Cheddar Smoked Sausage | N/A | Yes |
| Side Notes | Grilled Asparagus, Black Beans, French Fries (hold onion rings), Loaded Mashed Potatoes (check for breading), Mexican Rice, Roasted Street Corn, Shrimp, Steamed Broccoli, and Sweet Corn on the Cob | Varies (Choose gluten-free options) | Some may contain gluten or be cooked in shared oil |
Additional Notes:
- Always inform your server about your gluten sensitivity.
- Ask about preparation methods and potential cross-contamination.
- This is a guide, not an exhaustive list.
- Modifications may be available for other items.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Chili’s have a dedicated gluten-free menu?
While Chili’s does not have a gluten-free menu, this list highlights many items that are naturally gluten-free or may be made gluten-free. Don’t hesitate to inform your server about your gluten sensitivity, and they’ll be happy to help you navigate the menu and make safe choices.
Can I still enjoy fajitas with gluten sensitivity?
Absolutely! Request corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a completely gluten-free fajita experience. Customize your fajitas with protein, veggies, and pico de gallo, and enjoy the Tex-Mex fiesta!
Are any of the Chilis desserts gluten-free?
Unfortunately, Chili’s currently doesn’t offer any desserts certified gluten-free. However, their fruit cups and sorbet are safe options for many with gluten sensitivities. Always double-check with your server to confirm ingredient lists and potential cross-contamination risks.
What about Chilis sauce and dressings?
Not all sauces and dressings are gluten-free at Chili’s. Safe choices include Avocado Ranch, Bleu Cheese, Citrus Balsamic Vinaigrette, Honey Mustard, Ranch, Santa Fe, Thousand Island, and Smokehouse Hickory BBQ Sauce. Always ask your server if you have any doubts.
I’m worried about cross-contamination. How can I minimize the risk?
Inform your server about your gluten sensitivity at the beginning of your meal. They can take precautions, like using clean utensils and surfaces, when preparing food. Be mindful of shared surfaces like bread baskets, croutons, and flour-dusted areas, and don’t hesitate to ask questions if you have any concerns.
Are there any other tips for navigating Chili’s with gluten sensitivity?
Absolutely! Here are a few additional tips:
- Plan your meal: Look at the menu online and identify potential gluten-free options before you arrive.
- Be specific when ordering: Emphasize “without bun,” “with corn tortillas,” or “hold the…” to avoid any gluten surprises.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your server is there to help you make safe choices. Ask about ingredients, preparation methods, and potential cross-contamination risks.
- Relax and enjoy! Planning and communication allow you to have a delicious and safe gluten-free meal at Chili’s.
Is Chili’s Gluten Free
Chili is typically gluten-free, as it’s made with ingredients like beans, tomatoes, meat, and spices that naturally don’t contain gluten. However, whether or not a specific chili is gluten-free depends on the additional ingredients and preparation methods used.
Is chili powder Gluten Free?
Most commercially available chili powders are gluten-free. However, checking the ingredient list for any added wheat flour or thickeners is always best.
Are Chili’s chips gluten-free?
Chili’s regular tortilla chips are not gluten-free since they are fried in the same fryers as other gluten-containing foods, resulting in cross-contamination. However, they do offer corn tostada chips that are naturally gluten-free.
Is chili sauce gluten-free?
Similar to chili powder, check the ingredient list of your specific chili sauce. Most commercially available brands are gluten-free, but some may use wheat flour or malt vinegar containing gluten.