The Secret Condiment You Must Try at Chili's

The Secret Sauce Behind Chili’s Popular Dips

Chili's is widely recognized for its baby back ribs, thanks to the iconic ad jingle that has become a cultural touchstone. From being referenced in "Austin Powers" to "The Office," the brand has carved out a unique place in pop culture. However, there's another aspect of Chili's that often goes unnoticed but deserves equal recognition: its impressive lineup of condiments.

The casual dining chain has taken its dips to a whole new level, offering a variety of flavors that cater to different tastes. From the sweet and spicy honey sriracha to the piquant Southwest blend known as Santa Fe, there's something for everyone. To ensure these dips meet customer expectations, Chili's even hosts multi-day tasting panels where consumers can provide feedback on potential new sauces. This commitment to quality and innovation shows how seriously the company takes its side dishes.

While customers are known for creating their own secret menu items, Chili's culinary director, Brian Paquette, also enjoys experimenting with sauces. In a 2024 interview, he revealed that both the salsa and ranch are made in-house. He suggests mixing them in a 50-50 blend at your table for an unforgettable dip. The combination offers a balance of acidity and a mild heat, tempered by the cool tang of the dressing. Imagine blending Nacho Cheese Doritos with their Cool Ranch counterpart—this unique mix is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

How to Enjoy the Perfect Dip

For those looking to enjoy this delicious combination, the simplest way is to order chips and salsa along with a side of ranch. Alternatively, you can drench Texas cheese fries, which are smothered in melted cheese and topped with bacon, jalapeños, and green onions, in the mixture. Another great option is to use the ranch salsa to dip into crispy Southwestern egg rolls.

When it comes to value, Chili's chips and salsa are hard to beat. During happy hour, which runs from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays, the appetizer is usually discounted. On weekends, the happy hour extends all day, making it an even better deal. Pairing your ranch salsa tortilla chips with a $6 margarita of the month could be the perfect way to spend a Sunday.

Rewards and Special Offers

Diners who sign up for the My Chili's Rewards program can enjoy a complimentary order of chips and salsa or any non-alcoholic beverage. Members also get a free dessert on their birthday and can earn points with every purchase for additional perks. However, there's one state where these deals aren't available—Oregon. It's the only state without a Chili's location, with the last Triple Dipper served in Eugene in 2015. For most Oregon residents, the closest locations are in Spokane, Wash., and Meridian, Idaho, which might require a bit of a drive for ranch salsa lovers.