Copycat Chilis Salsa Recipe

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Some days feel like a marathon I didn’t sign up for — and dinner still has to happen. I was craving that fresh, zesty salsa flavor you get at Chili’s but didn’t feel like running out to buy it or settle for bland store-bought stuff. So, I rolled up my sleeves and whipped up this lovely Copycat Chilis Salsa Recipe that’s bright, chunky, and just the right kind of spicy. If you like the recipe, please share it!

Courtney here — I’m the friendly food blogger who loves bringing those Mexican restaurant salsa recipes authentic and homemade right to your kitchen table without the fuss. This salsa recipe copycat nails the balance of fresh tomatoes, onions, peppers, and just that hint of heat, all blended to a chunky perfection that’s perfect for dipping or topping your favorite dishes.

Let’s dive into the ingredients and easy steps for this best homemade salsa that feels like a fiesta in a bowl!

What is Copycat Chilis Salsa Recipe?

Copycat Chilis Salsa Recipe is a homemade chili sauce inspired by the signature salsa served at Chili’s restaurant. This chunky salsa recipe captures the authentic taste of Mexican restaurant salsa, combining fresh vegetables with a blend of homemade chili seasoning to create a vibrant and flavorful hot salsa recipe. It’s perfect for snacking with chips, adding to tacos, or spicing up any meal.

Using simple, real ingredients, this chili sauce recipe can even be adapted for chili sauce recipe canning, allowing you to enjoy the lively flavors all year round. Whether you’re after the classic taste of the Chilis queso dip copycat or a zesty homemade chili sauce, this recipe brings the best homemade salsa experience to your home kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for extra heat

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Blender or food processor (optional for smoother texture)
  • Airtight container for storage

How to Make Copycat Chilis Salsa Recipe

Step 1:

Start by chopping the tomatoes, finely dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, and finely chopping the jalapeño and cilantro.

Step 2:

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, jalapeño, and cilantro.

Step 3:

Add the fresh lime juice, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar to the bowl.

Step 4:

Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and sugar.

Step 5:

Stir everything together gently until well combined. For a chunky salsa recipe, leave it as is. If you prefer a smoother texture, pulse the mixture a few times in a blender or food processor (be careful not to overblend).

Step 6:

Taste and adjust seasoning or heat level — add cayenne pepper if you want it hotter.

Step 7:

Let the salsa sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Step 8:

Serve with tortilla chips, on tacos, or alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes.

Some Tips!

  • For an extra depth of flavor, roast the tomatoes and jalapeño before chopping.
  • Adjust the heat by including or removing the jalapeño seeds, or by adding more cayenne pepper.
  • For a fresher taste, use freshly squeezed lime juice instead of bottled.
  • If canning for longer storage, follow proper chili sauce recipe canning guidelines.
  • This salsa pairs wonderfully with homemade chili seasoning recipe in your other dishes for a flavor boost.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Copycat Chilis Salsa Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 5 to 7 days for the freshest flavor. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing in freezer-safe jars or bags for up to 3 months.

What to Eat With

This salsa is fantastic with crispy chips for a classic snack, and it also pairs perfectly with dishes like Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites or Copycat Bojangles Roasted Chicken Bites. You can also spoon it on top of tacos, grilled meats, or even alongside a warm bowl of Chilis queso dip copycat for an extra flavor punch.

FAQ

Can I make this salsa less spicy?

Absolutely! Remove the seeds from the jalapeño and omit the cayenne pepper to keep things mild.

How long does this homemade chili sauce last?

When stored properly in the fridge, it lasts about 5 to 7 days.

Can I freeze this salsa?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

Is this salsa chunky or smooth?

This Copycat Chilis Salsa Recipe is best served chunky, but you can blend it smoother if you prefer.

Can this recipe be canned?

Yes, if you follow safe canning practices, you can preserve it as homemade chili sauce for longer storage.

Conclusion

This Copycat Chilis Salsa Recipe is a delightful way to bring that vibrant, authentic Mexican salsa flavor right into your home kitchen. It’s fresh, easy to make, and versatile enough to enjoy with so many different meals and snacks. I hope this homemade chili sauce inspires your next taco night or chili sauce canning adventure. Enjoy and share the love with friends and family!

Copycat Chilis Salsa Recipe
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Copycat Chilis Salsa Recipe

Recipe by SarahCourse: SidesDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Chill time

10

minutes
Calories

50

kcal
Total time

20

minutes

Make this easy Copycat Chili’s Salsa at home! Fresh, chunky, and zesty with tomatoes, jalapeño, and authentic Mexican flavors. Perfect for chips, tacos, or homemade chili sauce canning.

Ingredients

  • 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
    1/2 medium onion, finely diced
    2 cloves garlic, minced
    1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for heat)
    1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
    1 tbsp fresh lime juice
    1 tsp ground cumin
    1 tsp chili powder
    1/2 tsp smoked paprika
    1/2 tsp salt
    1/4 tsp black pepper
    1/2 tsp sugar
    1 tbsp olive oil
    1 tsp apple cider vinegar
    Optional: 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for extra heat

Directions

  • Chop tomatoes, onion, garlic, jalapeño, and cilantro. Combine in a medium mixing bowl.
  • Add lime juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and sugar. Mix well.
  • Optional: leave chunky or pulse a few times in a blender/food processor for a smoother texture. Adjust heat with cayenne if desired.
  • Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve with chips, tacos, or use in recipes like Chilis queso dip copycat.

Notes

  • Roast tomatoes and jalapeño before chopping for extra flavor.
    Adjust spiciness by removing seeds or adding more cayenne.
    Use fresh lime juice for the brightest taste.
    Safe for chili sauce recipe canning if following proper guidelines.
    Pairs perfectly with homemade chili seasoning recipe in other dishes.

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