Chili’s Southwestern Queso debuts packed with cheeses, fire-roasted chilies, and lime. Try it free with My Chili’s Rewards Oct. 7–21. With several Chili’s locations near Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, this new offer could spice up a break from the theme parks.

Chili’s Southwestern Queso

Theme park fans know the importance of a good snack, and Chili’s Grill & Bar is stepping up its game with a brand-new menu addition: the Southwestern Queso. After nearly two years of recipe testing, Chili’s has created a queso that delivers the creamy, cheesy, flavor-packed dip fans have been craving. It is rolling out nationwide starting Tuesday, October 7.

Why Southwestern Queso?

If you’ve visited a Chili’s after a long day at the parks, chances are you’ve started your meal with chips and salsa. Now, that classic pairing has an upgrade. Southwestern Queso replaces two former versions, Skillet Beef and White Skillet Queso. With less than 1% of sales coming from those older recipes, Chili’s knew it was time to invest in something truly crave-worthy.

The result? A smooth, melty blend of American and cheddar cheeses, fire-roasted green chilies, sweet onions, and just a splash of lime for brightness. In taste tests, according to Chili’s, nearly 70% of guests preferred this new queso over previous offerings.

Free Chili’s Southwestern Queso for Rewards Members

Chili’s is so confident in its new queso that it’s giving fans the chance to try it for free. From October 7 to October 21, all My Chili’s Rewards members can claim free Southwestern Queso and chips (limit one per member; restrictions apply). If you haven’t joined yet, now’s the time to sign up. Nothing says “welcome” quite like free queso.

More Ways to Enjoy Chili’s Southwestern Queso

Chili’s Southwestern Queso
Southwestern Queso also tops new Chicken Bacon Ranch Nachos — a very-Chili’s take on nachos inspired by the fan-favorite flavor combination.

Southwestern Queso isn’t just for dipping. It also headlines some brand-new menu creations:

  • As a standalone appetizer with Chili’s thin, crispy chips and house-made salsa.
  • In the Dip Trio, paired with other favorite dips for sharing.
  • As a fajita side, perfect for dunking steak, chicken, or shrimp.
  • On the new Chicken Bacon Ranch Nachos — a Chili’s twist on comfort food featuring chicken, bacon bits, Southwestern Queso, pico de gallo, sour cream, and ranch drizzle.

Chili’s Commitment to Flavor

This queso upgrade is part of Chili’s larger investment in food and experience. Over the past three years, the chain has improved everything from its Baby Back Ribs to Frozen Margaritas made with PATRÓN. The Southwestern Queso is another step toward restoring Chili’s reputation as a leader in casual dining.

Chili’s Southwestern Queso: Try It Yourself

Whether you’re winding down after a theme park day or just looking for a bold new appetizer, Chili’s Southwestern Queso is ready to deliver. Visit your local Chili’s starting October 7 to give it a try. Also, don’t forget to redeem your free order if you’re a My Chili’s Rewards member.

👉 For locations and membership info, visit chilis.com. Also, for more theme park-related news and information, visit MSM News. As always, eat like you mean it!

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Jon Self

Jon Self is an avid theme park fan. You can follow him at @pastorjonself on X/ Twitter or Jon.Self.37 at Instagram. He has been writing and editing in the theme park media world for over a decade. He also writes for several "foodie" sites as well as in the faith-based world.