Imagine this: It’s a cozy Sunday evening, and you’re in the kitchen preparing a delicious chicken dish. The aroma of herbs fills the air, but you’re pondering, “What goes with chicken?”
No need to stress! We’re here to guide you through choosing the perfect side dishes for chicken. Whether you prefer traditional pairings or want to explore new flavors, we’ve got it all! So, put on your apron, and let’s discover the best side dishes to complement your chicken meal!
Classic Side Dishes for Roasted or Rotisserie Chicken
Chicken pairs wonderfully with traditional side dishes, enhancing your meal experience. Let’s dive into some all-time favorites.
Creamy mashed potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect match for chicken, offering a smooth and rich taste that turns your dinner into a comforting delight. Experiment with different variations, like garlic mashed potatoes, or mashed potatoes with bacon bits!
Buttered corn
Sweet, crunchy buttered corn complements chicken beautifully. Enjoy it on the cob or shucked, and make sure you add in some extra salted butter! If you have time and aren’t in a pinch, grilled corn on the cob is hearty and delicious with roasted chicken. If you’re in a pinch, a frozen bag of corn will save the day.
Crisp green beans
Add some greens to your plate with crisp green beans. Whether blanched or stir-fried, they bring a vibrant crunch and a healthy boost to your dinner. If you’re feeling fancy, bake it extra crispy and add some parmesan to it!
Chicken Sides with Unique Ingredients
Do you want to make your chicken meals more exciting? Below are some unique side dishes that will elevate your meals with innovative recipes and intriguing ingredients.
Quinoa Salad with Grilled Vegetables
Need a healthy and tasty side? Think about a quinoa salad with grilled veggies. Quinoa’s nutty taste and smoky veggies go well with chicken, making for a side dish you’ll keep coming back to.
Follow these steps for a healthy and flavorful side:
- Cook the quinoa according to the package instructions.
- Grill vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant until tender.
- Chop the grilled vegetables and toss them with the cooked quinoa.
- Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Serve this quinoa salad as a perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Want a fancier chicken dinner? Try roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon. This combination of sweet sprouts and crispy bacon is so yummy that you’ll definitely want a second serving.
Here’s how you can make this irresistible side dish:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Clean the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.
- Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes until they are tender and caramelized.
- While the sprouts are roasting, cook some bacon until it is crispy.
- Combine the roasted Brussels sprouts with the crispy bacon.
- Serve alongside your chicken for a gourmet touch.
Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli
Swap out regular fries for sweet potato fries served with spicy aioli for a delightful twist. The sweetness of the potatoes contrasts beautifully with the heat from the aioli.
Follow these steps for a tasty and unique side:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cut sweet potatoes into strips.
- Toss the strips with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the seasoned sweet potato strips on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until they are crispy.
- To make the aioli, mix mayonnaise, Sriracha (on Amazon), garlic powder, and lemon juice together.
- Serve the crispy sweet potato fries with the spicy aioli for dipping.
International Flavors for Chicken Sides
Bring exciting international flavors to your chicken meals and transform them into culinary adventures with these global sides that are sure to please.
Spanish Rice
Spanish rice takes your taste buds to sunny locales. Packed with rice, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices, it’s a savory side that conjures up the aromatic streets of Barcelona or Seville.
Greek Lemon Potatoes
Savor the zest of Greek lemon potatoes alongside your chicken. Roasted with lemon, olive oil, and herbs, these potatoes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, bursting with flavor.
Related Article: For more potato dishes with an international twist, check out our recipes on Latkes and Draniki.
Indian Curried Vegetables
Embrace the vibrant spices of Indian cuisine with a side of curried vegetables. Featuring turmeric, cumin, and coriander, this mix of cauliflower, chickpeas, spinach, and potatoes brings excitement to any chicken dish.
Conclusion
There are so many sides to pair with chicken, from creamy mashed potatoes and crisp green beans to adventurous options like quinoa and roasted veggies. This guide is packed with ideas to enhance your chicken dinners.
Don’t hesitate to experiment in the kitchen. Mix and match new flavors and textures to discover what goes best with your chicken dishes. Whether you opt for light salads or simple sheet pan fajitas, the possibilities are endless.
So, next time you’re making chicken, think carefully about the side dishes. The right choice can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Have fun cooking, enjoy the tastes, and make great meals!
FAQ
What are some quick and easy chicken meal ideas with accompanying sides?
For a speedy dinner, try sheet pan fajitas with bell peppers and onions, or whip up a chicken stir-fry with a mix of colorful vegetables. A simple pasta salad also pairs beautifully with grilled or baked chicken.
What goes with chicken for a healthy meal?
Opt for sides like steamed broccoli, a vibrant Kale Caesar salad, or sweet potato fries. These not only complement the chicken but also contribute to a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
What goes with chicken when I want something low-carb?
Consider sides like cauliflower rice, a hearty vegetable stir-fry, or a fresh cucumber salad. These low-carb options are delicious and won’t weigh down your meal.
What are some kid-friendly sides that go with chicken?
Kids often enjoy simpler sides like macaroni and cheese, sliced carrots with dip, or apple slices. These are not only tasty but also easy for little ones to eat.