Substitute for Chilis: 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for chilis is Chili Flakes at a Use 25% ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Chili Flakes
Use 25%
You can use Chili Flakes in place of chilis when needed. Use 25% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than chilis, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
What are the other substitutes for chilis?
Chili powder
Use 50%
Chili powder works as a substitute for chilis in many recipes. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than chilis, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
Dried chilis
Use 50%
Dried chilis is a workable stand-in for chilis. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than chilis, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Jalapenos
Same amount (1:1)
Jalapenos is a workable stand-in for chilis. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. The flavor lands a bit softer than the original, so you may want a final taste adjustment. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What should you know before substituting chilis?
Chili Flakes is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to chilis in everyday cooking. Use 25% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Potency varies a lot with dried spices and herbs, so taste as you go instead of making the full adjustment at once.
How do you substitute chilis in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for chilis and you need an alternative, there are 4 tested substitutes available. Chili Flakes is the best overall replacement, used at a Use 25% ratio. The right substitute depends on the role chilis plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for chilis depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Chili Flakes (Use 25%), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Chili powder (Use 50%) is another reliable choice. Chili powder works as a substitute for chilis in many recipes. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than chilis, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference.
When substituting chilis, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Chilis?
Chili Flakes is the best place to start for chilis. Use 25% of the original amount and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Chilis?
This page lists 4 substitutes for chilis. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.