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Discover the rich and diverse flavors of Chilean cuisine with our collection of 24+ Chilean lunch recipes that bring authentic tastes right to your table.
From hearty stews and fresh seafood dishes to vibrant salads and satisfying sandwiches, these recipes showcase the best of Chile’s culinary traditions.
Whether you’re craving comforting classics like Pastel de Choclo or refreshing bites like Ceviche Chileno, this variety ensures there’s something for every palate and occasion.
Dive into these flavorful dishes that perfectly balance fresh ingredients, bold spices, and unique textures, making lunch an exciting and delicious experience every time.
24+ Must-Try Chilean Lunch Recipes for Authentic Flavors
With these 24+ Chilean lunch recipes, you’re equipped to bring a true taste of Chilean culture into your kitchen.
Each recipe offers a unique blend of textures, aromas, and flavors that reflect the country’s rich culinary heritage.
Whether you prefer something light and fresh or warm and hearty, these dishes can be easily adapted to your preferences, making lunchtime both exciting and satisfying.
Embark on this delicious journey and enjoy the vibrant spirit of Chile with every bite.
Pastel de Choclo
A comforting blend of sweet and savory, Pastel de Choclo is a Chilean corn pie that brings together tender ground meat, juicy chicken, black olives, and hard-boiled eggs, all crowned with a golden crust of fresh creamed corn.
The aroma of basil and baked corn filling your kitchen is enough to draw a crowd before it even hits the table.
With its contrast of creamy and crisp textures, this dish can easily star as a standalone lunch or be paired with a fresh salad for a hearty midday meal.
Porotos Granados
Earthy, rustic, and brimming with flavor, Porotos Granados is a Chilean bean stew that sings of summer with its medley of cranberry beans, pumpkin, corn, and aromatic spices.
The velvety texture of slow-simmered beans and squash melts into a rich broth that feels both nourishing and indulgent.
It’s perfect on its own but pairs beautifully with pebre or crusty bread for a lunch that satisfies and soothes in every spoonful.
Empanadas de Pino
Golden, flaky, and filled with a luscious meat mixture, Empanadas de Pino are a lunchtime staple in Chilean households.
Inside the hand-folded dough lies a warm center of seasoned ground beef, onions, raisins, olives, and a wedge of hard-boiled egg, offering a sweet and savory surprise in every bite.
These empanadas are portable and versatile—ideal for lunchboxes, picnics, or enjoyed warm from the oven with a glass of chilled white wine.
Cazuela
Brimming with the wholesome aroma of herbs and slow-cooked meat, Cazuela is a traditional Chilean stew that wraps you in warmth and flavor.
Tender chunks of beef or chicken simmer with potatoes, corn on the cob, carrots, and pumpkin, creating a broth that’s rich and soothing with every sip.
Whether served as a sit-down meal or poured into a thermos for a rustic lunch on the go, this dish delivers soul-satisfying comfort.
Ensalada Chilena
Crisp, refreshing, and intensely flavorful, Ensalada Chilena is the salad you didn’t know you needed at lunchtime.
Made with thinly sliced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a splash of olive oil and lemon juice, it bursts with tang and brightness.
It cuts through richer dishes like grilled meats or pastel de choclo but also shines solo with crusty bread or avocado slices for a light yet vibrant lunch.
Churrasco Italiano
Juicy, colorful, and loaded with bold flavors, Churrasco Italiano is Chile’s take on the ultimate steak sandwich.
Grilled thin-sliced beef is layered onto fresh bread with creamy avocado, ripe tomatoes, and a generous swirl of mayonnaise, echoing the colors of the Chilean flag.
The result is a tender, tangy, and satisfying bite that stands on its own or pairs perfectly with a side of crisp fries or a cold drink.
Charquicán
This hearty Chilean stew combines tender chunks of beef or charqui (dried meat) with a colorful mix of potatoes, pumpkin, peas, and corn, creating a rich medley of earthy and sweet flavors.
The stew’s thick, stew-like texture offers a satisfying bite, perfect for a fulfilling lunch that warms both body and soul.
Charquicán shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or fresh bread to soak up every delicious drop.
Caldillo de Congrio
A fragrant fish stew, Caldillo de Congrio features tender conger eel simmered with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and fresh herbs, releasing a comforting ocean breeze into your kitchen.
Its silky broth, accented with smoky paprika and subtle spice, delivers a delicate yet robust flavor experience.
Enjoy it as a light lunch or a starter to a larger seafood feast, perfect for those who crave fresh, vibrant Chilean coastal tastes.
Ceviche Chileno
Bursting with bright citrus and the ocean’s freshness, Ceviche Chileno uses tender raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with chopped onions, cilantro, and a touch of chili for gentle heat.
Each bite delivers a crisp, tangy, and refreshing sensation, ideal for a light lunch or appetizer.
It pairs beautifully with crunchy corn or soft tortillas, making it both versatile and effortlessly elegant.
Lomo a lo Pobre
A rich and indulgent Chilean classic, Lomo a lo Pobre features juicy grilled beef topped with golden fried eggs, caramelized onions, and crispy fries.
The combination of tender meat, runny yolk, and crunchy potatoes creates a symphony of textures and flavors that delight every palate.
This dish is hearty enough to be a main event but also perfect for sharing on a casual lunch day with friends or family.
Humitas
Wrapped in sweet corn husks, Humitas are steamed pockets of fresh corn blended with onions, basil, and a touch of cheese, offering a soft, sweet, and savory treat.
The subtle herbal aroma and creamy texture make them a comforting yet light lunch option.
They work beautifully as a side or enjoyed on their own, perfect for those seeking a taste of traditional Chilean street food.
Chancho en Piedra
This rustic Chilean tomato and chili salsa blends ripe tomatoes, garlic, onions, and spicy ají peppers pounded together in a stone mortar for an authentic smoky texture.
Its vibrant, bold flavors bring a fresh kick to any meal, offering a burst of spice and acidity with every bite.
Enjoy it as a dip with bread or as a flavorful complement to grilled meats or empanadas for a lunch that’s lively and unforgettable.
Calzones Rotos
These crispy, golden pastries are a Chilean favorite made from simple dough fried to perfection and dusted with powdered sugar.
Their light, flaky texture and sweet finish make them an irresistible snack or a delightful lunch treat paired with a cup of tea or coffee.
Calzones Rotos can be enjoyed anytime and add a touch of homemade comfort to your day.
Porotos con Riendas
A traditional Chilean dish featuring creamy cranberry beans mixed with tender strands of spaghetti, sautéed onions, and smoky paprika.
The hearty, warming flavors combine to create a dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate.
It stands well alone but also complements grilled meats or fresh salads for a balanced midday meal.
Sopaipillas
These deep-fried pumpkin dough rounds are crispy on the outside and soft inside, delivering a perfect balance of texture and subtle sweetness.
Often served with pebre or a drizzle of chancaca syrup, they offer versatility as a savory snack or a lightly sweet lunch side.
Sopaipillas bring a satisfying crunch and warm comfort to any Chilean table.
Chorrillana
A decadent Chilean platter piled high with fries, sautéed onions, strips of beef, and fried eggs, bursting with bold, savory flavors.
The combination of crispy, tender, and gooey textures makes it an irresistible choice for sharing or a hearty solo meal.
Chorrillana’s rich and filling nature makes it perfect for a casual lunch that never disappoints.
Caldillo
A simple yet flavorful broth-based soup featuring fresh fish or seafood, simmered with potatoes, onions, and herbs.
The gentle aroma of fresh herbs mingles with the ocean’s essence, making each spoonful light and satisfying.
Ideal as a nourishing lunch, it’s equally at home on a warm day or a cozy afternoon.
Pastel de Jaiba
This creamy crab casserole combines fresh crab meat with a cheesy, slightly spicy sauce baked under a golden breadcrumb crust.
The rich, buttery flavors paired with tender seafood create a luxurious and comforting dish.
Enjoy it as a standout lunch on its own or alongside a crisp green salad for a perfectly balanced meal.
Pan Amasa
Soft, slightly sweet Chilean bread with a tender crumb and golden crust that invites you to tear it apart fresh from the oven.
Its delicate texture and subtle buttery aroma make it perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoyed with butter and jam at lunch.
Pan Amasa pairs beautifully with savory fillings or as a comforting side to stews and salads.
Lentejas
A wholesome Chilean lentil stew simmered with smoky chorizo, vegetables, and fragrant herbs for a warm, filling lunch.
The tender lentils soak up rich flavors, creating a dish that’s both hearty and nutritious.
It can be savored on its own or accompanied by crusty bread to soak up every flavorful drop.
Mote con Huesillo
A traditional Chilean drink combining sweet dried peaches soaked in cinnamon syrup with chewy cooked wheat berries.
The refreshing mix offers a unique combination of textures—soft, juicy, and chewy—perfect for a light midday treat or dessert.
Mote con Huesillo brings a sweet, comforting pause to any Chilean lunch experience.
Conclusion
From rustic stews to vibrant salads and satisfying sandwiches, these 24+ Chilean lunch recipes highlight the versatility and depth of Chilean cuisine.
Perfect for everyday meals or special gatherings, each dish invites you to experience authentic flavors and nourishing ingredients.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious food lover, these recipes will inspire you to create memorable lunches that celebrate Chile’s culinary traditions in every delicious serving.
