Milly Gaines
If you're following a keto diet and craving a meal from Chili's, you're in luck! Chili's offers a variety of menu options that can be customized to fit your low-carb lifestyle. From grilled meats and fresh salads to flavorful fajitas without the tortillas, there are plenty of keto-friendly choices to satisfy your hunger. By making smart substitutions, like swapping rice and beans for steamed broccoli or a side salad, you can enjoy a delicious meal without derailing your dietary goals. Whether you're dining in or ordering takeout, Chili's makes it easy to stay on track with your keto journey.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Menu Options | Grilled Chicken, Steak, Fajitas (no tortillas), Salads (no croutons/high-carb dressings), Non-breaded Wings, Guacamole, Salsa, Cheese, Low-carb Veggies (broccoli, asparagus, green beans) |
| Protein Choices | Chicken, Steak, Shrimp, Salmon, Ribs (without sauce) |
| Side Options | Steamed Broccoli, Asparagus, Green Beans, Cauliflower Rice, Salad (no croutons) |
| Dressing Options | Ranch, Blue Cheese, Caesar (used sparingly), Oil and Vinegar |
| Beverages | Unsweetened Iced Tea, Water, Diet Soda, Unsweetened Coffee |
| Avoid | Bread, Tortillas, Rice, Beans, Fries, Honey-Chipotle Sauce, BBQ Sauce, Sweet Dishes |
| Customization Tips | Ask for sauces and dressings on the side, Skip high-carb sides, Double up on veggies |
| Popular Keto Orders | Grilled Chicken with Steamed Broccoli, Steak Fajitas (no tortillas), Santa Fe Salad (no corn/beans) |
| Calorie Range | Varies (typically 300-800 calories per meal depending on choices) |
| Carb Range | 5-20g net carbs per meal (depending on customization) |
| Availability | Most Chili’s locations in the U.S. |
| Price Range | $10-$25 per meal (depending on protein and sides) |
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What You'll Learn
Keto-friendly appetizers at Chili's
When dining at Chili's and following a keto diet, it's essential to focus on low-carb, high-fat options. Fortunately, Chili's offers several appetizers that can fit into a keto lifestyle with a few modifications. One excellent choice is the Fresh Guacamole. Made with fresh avocados, this dish is naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats. Pair it with low-carb vegetables like cucumber slices or bell pepper strips instead of the standard tortilla chips to keep it keto-friendly. This option not only satisfies your craving for something creamy and flavorful but also aligns perfectly with your dietary goals.
Another great keto-friendly appetizer at Chili's is the Fajita Beef or Chicken Quesadilla, but with a twist. Instead of the tortilla, ask for the filling ingredients—seasoned beef or chicken, cheese, and fajita veggies—served on a plate. This way, you enjoy the flavors without the carb-heavy shell. You can also request extra sour cream or guacamole on the side to add more fats and enhance the taste. This customization ensures you stay within your keto macros while still indulging in a classic Chili's favorite.
If you're in the mood for something crispy, consider ordering the Boneless Buffalo Wings without the breading. While traditional wings are often breaded and fried, Chili's can prepare them without the breading upon request. Pair these with a side of blue cheese dressing for dipping, which adds flavor and healthy fats. Be mindful of the sauce, as some buffalo sauces may contain added sugars—opt for a drier rub or ask for the sauce on the side to control the amount.
For a refreshing and light option, the House Salad can be transformed into a keto-friendly appetizer. Skip the croutons and opt for a high-fat dressing like ranch or blue cheese. You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. This choice is perfect if you're looking for something simple yet satisfying before your main course. By making these small adjustments, you can enjoy a variety of appetizers at Chili's while staying true to your keto diet.
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Low-carb main course options available
When dining at Chili's while following a keto diet, there are several low-carb main course options available that can help you stay on track with your nutritional goals. One popular choice is the Classic Sirloin, a 6-ounce USDA Choice sirloin steak served without the typical high-carb sides. To keep it keto-friendly, opt for steamed broccoli or a side salad with ranch dressing instead of fries or mashed potatoes. This dish is rich in protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and compliant meal.
Another excellent option is the Grilled Salmon, which is naturally low in carbs and high in omega-3 fatty acids. Pair it with a double serving of asparagus or Brussels sprouts instead of rice or beans to maintain a low-carb profile. The salmon is often seasoned with a light rub that adds flavor without unnecessary sugars, ensuring it fits well within a keto framework. Be sure to ask for any sauces or glazes on the side to control added carbs.
For those who enjoy poultry, the Ancho-Chile Chicken is a flavorful choice. This dish features grilled chicken breast seasoned with ancho-chile spices. Skip the rice and request extra steamed vegetables or a side of guacamole to keep the meal low-carb. The chicken is lean yet flavorful, providing a balanced option for keto dieters. Just ensure any accompanying sauces are sugar-free or used sparingly.
Seafood lovers can also opt for the Shrimp Skewers, a grilled shrimp dish that’s naturally low in carbs. Pair it with a side of buttered asparagus or a mixed green salad with olive oil and vinegar dressing. Avoid the corn on the cob or other starchy sides typically offered. This option is not only keto-friendly but also light and refreshing, making it ideal for those who prefer a less heavy meal.
Lastly, the Smoked Chicken Club can be modified into a low-carb main course by ordering it as a lettuce wrap instead of on a bun. This version includes smoked chicken, bacon, avocado, and cheese, wrapped in lettuce with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Skip the fries and opt for a side of queso or a small house salad to complete the meal. This creative twist allows you to enjoy a club sandwich without the carb-heavy bread.
By making thoughtful substitutions and modifications, Chili's offers a variety of low-carb main course options that align with a keto lifestyle. Always communicate your dietary needs to the server to ensure your meal is prepared accordingly.
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Sugar-free drink choices for keto
When dining at Chili’s while following a keto diet, choosing sugar-free drink options is crucial to staying within your macros. Fortunately, Chili’s offers several beverages that align with keto principles, ensuring you can enjoy your meal without derailing your goals. One of the best choices is unsweetened iced tea, which you can customize by adding a sugar-free sweetener like Splenda. This option is refreshing and contains zero carbs, making it a perfect keto-friendly drink. Always confirm with your server that the tea is unsweetened to avoid hidden sugars.
Another excellent sugar-free drink choice at Chili’s is diet soda. Options like Diet Coke, Diet Dr Pepper, or Diet Sprite are widely available and contain zero carbs and calories, thanks to artificial sweeteners like aspartame. While some keto followers prefer to avoid artificial sweeteners, these drinks are still a viable option if you’re looking for a fizzy, sugar-free alternative to regular soda. Just be mindful of your overall intake of artificial sweeteners if you’re sensitive to them.
For those who prefer something more natural, sparkling water with a splash of lime or lemon is a fantastic keto-friendly choice. Chili’s typically offers plain sparkling water, which you can enhance with a slice of citrus for added flavor without any sugar or carbs. This option is hydrating, refreshing, and completely guilt-free, making it ideal for keto dieters who want to avoid both sugar and artificial sweeteners.
If you’re in the mood for something creamy but still sugar-free, consider ordering an unsweetened iced coffee with heavy cream. While Chili’s may not have a dedicated keto coffee menu, you can customize your order by requesting black coffee over ice with a side of heavy cream. This combination provides a rich, satisfying drink with minimal carbs, as long as you skip any flavored syrups or sugar. It’s a great way to enjoy a coffee-based beverage without compromising your keto diet.
Lastly, plain water is always a reliable and keto-friendly choice. While it may seem simple, staying hydrated is essential, especially when following a low-carb diet. You can ask for a slice of cucumber, lemon, or lime to add a hint of flavor without any sugar. This option is not only carb-free but also supports your overall health and well-being while dining at Chili’s. Always prioritize hydration, especially when consuming higher amounts of protein and fat on a keto diet.
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Customizable keto salads at Chili's
When dining at Chili's and following a keto diet, customizable salads are an excellent choice. Chili's offers a variety of fresh ingredients that can be tailored to fit your low-carb, high-fat needs. Start with a base of mixed greens or romaine lettuce, both of which are low in carbs and provide a nutritious foundation. Avoid iceberg lettuce, as it offers minimal nutritional value. By choosing a leafy green base, you ensure your salad is keto-friendly from the start.
Next, focus on adding protein to keep your meal satisfying and aligned with keto principles. Chili's offers several protein options that work well for keto diets, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak. These proteins are low in carbs and high in quality fats and amino acids. For example, the Ancho-Chile Chicken or the Grilled Shrimp can be excellent additions to your salad. Be sure to request your protein grilled without any sugary marinades or breading to keep it keto-compliant.
Incorporate healthy fats into your salad to meet your macronutrient goals. Chili's provides toppings like avocado, which is rich in monounsaturated fats and adds creaminess to your salad. You can also ask for extra olive oil or ranch dressing on the side, though be cautious with store-bought dressings as they often contain hidden sugars. Opting for olive oil and vinegar or a simple oil-based dressing is a safer bet to avoid added carbs.
Customize your salad further by adding non-starchy vegetables for flavor and texture. Chili's offers options like cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, all of which are low in carbs and high in fiber. Avoid high-carb toppings like corn, beans, or croutons. If you enjoy cheese, consider adding shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for an extra dose of fat and flavor without the carbs.
Finally, portion control is key when ordering a customizable keto salad at Chili's. While the ingredients themselves are keto-friendly, large portions of even low-carb foods can add up quickly. Consider sharing a salad or saving part of it for later if the serving size seems too large. By being mindful of your choices and customizations, you can enjoy a delicious, satisfying keto-friendly salad at Chili's without derailing your diet.
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Keto-approved sides and toppings offered
When dining at Chili's while following a keto diet, it's essential to focus on low-carb sides and toppings that complement your main dish without derailing your macros. Chili's offers several keto-approved options that can enhance your meal while keeping it carb-conscious. One standout choice is the steamed broccoli, a nutrient-dense side that pairs well with grilled meats. Broccoli is naturally low in carbs and high in fiber, making it an excellent choice for keto dieters. Be sure to request it without any added butter or sauces to keep it keto-friendly.
Another great keto-approved side is the grilled asparagus. Asparagus is not only low in carbs but also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to your meal. Like the broccoli, it’s best to enjoy it plain or with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to maintain its keto compatibility. If you're looking for something heartier, the cauliflower rice is a fantastic option. This low-carb alternative to traditional rice can be a satisfying base for your protein, especially when seasoned simply with herbs and spices.
For toppings, Chili's offers guacamole, which is a keto favorite due to its healthy fats and minimal carbs. Adding guacamole to your meal not only boosts flavor but also increases your fat intake, which is beneficial for staying in ketosis. Just ensure it’s served without chips, as those are not keto-friendly. Additionally, salsa is another excellent topping choice, as it’s typically low in carbs and adds a fresh, tangy element to your dish. Opt for a simple, no-sugar-added salsa to keep it keto-approved.
If you're craving something creamy, the ranch dressing can be a good option when used sparingly. While it does contain some carbs, a small amount can add richness to your meal without significantly impacting your macros. Just be mindful of portion sizes to stay within your keto limits. Lastly, butter or olive oil can be requested as simple, keto-friendly additions to your vegetables or protein. These healthy fats not only enhance flavor but also help you meet your fat intake goals for the day.
By focusing on these keto-approved sides and toppings, you can enjoy a satisfying meal at Chili's while staying true to your dietary goals. Always double-check with your server to ensure no hidden sugars or carbs are added to your choices, and don’t hesitate to customize your order to fit your keto needs.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Chili's offers the option to order burgers without the bun, which is keto-friendly. Pair it with a side of steamed broccoli or a side salad without croutons for a complete meal.
Yes, you can order the Santa Fe Chicken Quesadilla and ask for it to be made with low-carb tortillas or simply enjoy the filling without the tortilla. Another option is the Fajita Chicken Nachos without the chips, focusing on the protein and veggies.
Absolutely! Chili's offers several steak options like the Classic Sirloin or Margarita Grilled Chicken. Pair it with steamed broccoli, asparagus, or a side salad without sugary dressings.
Yes, the Santa Fe Crispers Salad without the crispy chicken strips and tortilla strips, and with a low-carb dressing like ranch or blue cheese, is a great keto option.
Yes, the Chicken or Steak Fajitas are keto-friendly if you skip the tortillas, rice, and beans. Enjoy the meat and veggies with guacamole and sour cream on the side.
