Chili's® Grill & Bar Unveils the Southwestern Queso
Chili's® Grill & Bar is set to enhance its menu with a newly crafted creation - the Southwestern Queso. This exciting flavor experience is a result of nearly two years of meticulous development aimed at providing guests with a delicious queso option they truly deserve.
Launch Date and Special Promotion
On October 7, chili lovers nationwide can rejoice as the Southwestern Queso officially debuts at all Chili’s locations. To celebrate the launch, Chili's is offering a generous promotion where all My Chili's members get to indulge in free Southwestern Queso paired with crispy tortilla chips from October 7 to October 21. This is a perfect opportunity for fans to taste what the restaurant believes to be the best queso available across the country.
The Journey to Perfect Queso
The new Southwestern Queso replaces two previous variations, Skillet Beef and White Skillet Queso. These outdated recipes accounted for a mere 1% of sales, signaling to Chili's that there was a significant demand for an improved offering. In response, the brand invested hundreds of millions over the past three years into enhancing its food quality, service, and overall ambiance, reestablishing its reputation in casual dining.
The development process for the Southwestern Queso involved consumer feedback, with Chili’s prioritizing guest opinions to refine the flavor profile. Feedback from taste tests indicated that roughly 70% of participants preferred the new Southwestern style over the previous offerings, showcasing a successful shift in direction.
What’s in the Southwestern Queso?
At the heart of this new creation is a delightful blend of American and cheddar cheeses, combined with fire-roasted green chilies, sweet onions, and a hint of lime. This mixture delivers a smooth and creamy texture with vibrant southwestern flavors, designed to perfectly accompany Chili's signature tortilla chips.
In addition to offering it as a standalone appetizer, the Southwestern Queso can also elevate your favorite menu choices. Guests can enjoy it as part of the Dip Trio or alongside chili's renowned Sizzlin' Fajitas. Moreover, a new dish has emerged that features the queso – the Chicken Bacon Ranch Nachos, which combines grilled chicken, crispy bacon bits, and the new queso, topped with fresh pico de gallo, sour cream, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
Chili's Commitment to Quality
Chili's takes guest satisfaction seriously. By creating a dish that resonates with customer preferences and elevating the dining experience, the restaurant chain continues to solidify its standing in the competitive casual dining landscape. With 1,600 locations across 29 countries, the brand ensures that every detail - from the meals to the atmosphere - enhances every visit.
Founded in 1975, Chili’s has built a reputation for notable menu items including Big Mouth Burgers® and sizzling fajitas, and has continuously earned accolades within the industry, such as Ad Age's 2025 Brand of the Year. Their commitment extends beyond menu innovations, as they have also raised considerable funds for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, reflecting their dedication to community engagement.
Conclusion
Starting October 7, 2025, join Chili's and experience the rich and robust flavors of the Southwestern Queso. Don’t forget to grab your free sample by signing up as a My Chili’s member or visiting a restaurant near you. To learn more about Chili's menu and promotions, head to
chilis.com.